A cat tree can bring so much joy to your furry friend. It’s a place to climb, scratch, nap, and watch the world go by. But when it comes to safety—especially in homes with kittens or multiple cats—not all cat trees are created equal.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through 5 common cat tree mistakes and how to avoid them. Your cat’s safety is worth it, and making the right choice can save you from stress and costly accidents.

1. Mistake: Buying a Wobbly or Unstable Cat Tree

One of the biggest dangers is a cat tree that tips over. If the base is too small or the materials are too light, a cat jumping to the top can cause the whole thing to fall.

This is especially risky for:

Large cats

Multiple cats playing at once

Curious kittens just learning to climb

Tip: Look for cat trees with a wide, reinforced base and solid frame. At Mewcats, our tall trees include anti-tip features and sturdy support posts to stay strong—even during zoomies.

2. Mistake: Ignoring the Weight Limit

Not every cat tree is built to hold your chunky kitty. If you have a heavier cat (or more than one), flimsy particle board can crack under pressure.

Tip: Always check the weight limit before buying. Even better, choose cat trees made from reinforced wood or high-quality compressed board, like the ones at Mewcats. They’re designed for big cats and multi-cat households.

3. Mistake: Low-Quality Sisal Rope That Can Be Swallowed

Scratching is healthy, but not if your cat ends up chewing and swallowing loose sisal threads. Some cheap cat trees use low-grade or synthetic rope, which can fray easily and pose a choking hazard.

Tip: Choose trees that use natural, high-quality sisal rope. All Mewcats products are made with non-toxic, pet-safe materials—so your cat can scratch all day without worry.

4. Mistake: Not Securing the Tree to a Wall (When Needed)

Tall cat trees can become unstable over time, especially if your cat likes to leap to the top at full speed. In small spaces or on uneven floors, this adds even more risk.

Tip: If your tree is very tall (6ft+), or if you live in an area with earthquakes, use a wall anchor or bracket for extra safety. Some Mewcats models include this feature, or you can add your own.

5. Mistake: Choosing a Tree That’s Too Tall for Kittens

We get it—big trees look amazing. But if you’ve just brought home a tiny kitten, a tall cat tree with big jumps between platforms might be too much.

Young kittens don’t have great coordination yet. A fall from a tall perch can lead to injury.

Tip: For kittens, choose a cat tree with:

Low platforms

Soft landings

Stable steps

Then, as your kitten grows, upgrade to a taller tree or add shelves to create a climbing system that grows with them.

Bonus Safety Tip: Regular Maintenance Matters

Even the best cat trees need a little care. Check for:

Loose screws

Worn-out sisal

Wobbly platforms

Tighten and clean your cat tree every few months to keep it in great shape.

Why Mewcats Cat Trees Are Built for Safety

At Mewcats.com, we design every cat tree with safety as our first priority. Here’s what makes us different:

Reinforced anti-tip bases

Wide, stable platforms

Non-toxic certified materials

Natural sisal rope

Perfect for kittens, seniors, and big cats

Whether you’re searching “are cat trees safe for kittens” or wondering “how to stabilize a cat tree,” Mewcats has the solution.

Final Thoughts

A cat tree isn’t just a piece of furniture—it’s a playground, a napping zone, and a safe space. But only if it’s designed right.

By avoiding these five common mistakes, you’ll help keep your cat happy, healthy, and safe. And if you’re looking for a worry-free, cat-approved option, check out our trusted collection at Mewcats.com.

Your cat deserves the best—and the safest.