You recently got a new cat tree for your pet. Not only does it keep your cat away from your furniture, but it also provides them with a secure scratching area.
Unfortunately, many people cannot enjoy the benefits of having a new cat tree due to its scratched-up and hair-covered surface. Cats do not always adapt well to changes in the household.
After you bought a new cat tree, you might have thought it was a waste of money. Your cat might be ignoring you or even scared of it. This post will teach you how to get your cat to use it. You can try some tricks to convince your cat that the tree is the right place for them.
Why Do Some Cats Not Want To Use A Tree?
When cats are indoors, they tend to climb up whenever they want. However, if they are avoiding a cat tree, it might be because something is not right.
Before you start implementing the steps to teach kids how to use a tree, it is important that you first understand what is causing their negative reactions.
Your cat lacks mobility
Your cat might not be taking well to the tree because of their lack of mobility. This condition can be caused by various factors such as age, health, and confidence.
Some cats would not jump or climb up to higher ground just because they lack confidence. With mobility issues, they may end up avoiding trees altogether.
Your cat may be a sensitive type
Certain factors can trigger both stress and fear. For instance, cats are often sensitive to the smallest environmental changes. When they are introduced to new furniture, they might feel stressed out.
Your cat may feel scared by the tree’s appearance or if it has a negative experience with it, such as being kicked out by its other feline roommate.
Cats often have territorial issues. So, it is important to identify the cause of their stress and fear and take the necessary steps to make them feel more comfortable.
Your cat doesn’t like the location of the tree
If your cat refuses to use the cat tree, it is important to consider the location of the tree. Cats are known to be very selective when it comes to their environment. Some prefer to be in a location where people are, while others prefer to be secluded.
Cats prefer to be able to see what is going on around them, and windows are typically their preferred choice. You will also notice that most of them have favorite areas inside the house, which means that placing a tree in an area they rarely visit could prevent them from enjoying it.
6 Ways To Attract Your Cat To Use The Tree
1. You have to put it in their desirable location
Cats are usually very observant and will often go to the areas where the other family members are present. Placing the cat tree in a non-visited area can be a bit challenging. Make sure that the tree is placed in a convenient location. Having it in a good location with a good view will encourage your cat to use it.
Although this step is not a one-size-fits-all solution, it is important to consider the different factors that affect a cat’s behavior. For instance, if a cat likes to hide from the outside world, this is where it will most likely go.
Where you can put the tree?
If your cat cannot handle the traffic in high-traffic areas, consider placing the tree in a more comfortable area inside the home. Since cats love windows, you must keep in mind that they can cause damage to your screens and blinds.
For cats that love to play with trees, placing one near a window is a great way to encourage them to do so. You can also find a location that is ideal for both you and your pet.
2. You can put some treats or toys on their tree
Cat toys, food, and treats can make a cat tree more welcoming. It is important to ensure that your pet has a positive first experience with the tree.
You can leave them a trail of treats, provide them with a tasty meal, or engage in play with the tree. Catnip is also an enticing option that can make the tree look more enticing.
3. Accompany them on the tree
When it comes to cats, positive associations are important. A cat will stick with a negative experience if it has one. To make them feel more comfortable, introduce them to new furniture with positive reinforcement.
Make sure that your cat is positively associated with the tree. This can help ease the stress of having a new home. Place your pet on the tree and provide them with love and affection.
Play with your cat’s toys and engage them in fun activities. You can also use a laser pointer to chase the object around the tree.
4. Put their comfortable bed beside the Tree
It is no secret that cats love being comfortable. One way to encourage them to use their new cat tree is by placing their favorite bedding on it. This can be a blanket or a comfy cat bed.
Make sure the bedding is placed in a secure and comfortable area on the cat tree, as they may be restless there. If you notice that their bedding is taking well to it, you can give them additional encouragement by giving them treats and praise.
5. Give them some time
Cats are not used to change. If you do not see results from the above steps, give your cat some time to get used to the new structure. It may take a while for the cats to get used to it.
After getting used to the tree, they may take it independently. This step can be repeated if they continue to become more comfortable with it.
6. Choose a tree based on what your cats need
One of the most important aspects you should consider when choosing a tree for your cat is the type of tree that will work for your pet’s conditions.
When it comes to choosing a tree, it’s important to consider the number of cats in the house. Ideally, all of them should be able to get along well with one another, but this cannot always be the case. Various types of trees can accommodate multiple cats, and you can choose to have one tree in the house or several.
Read also: How to Fix a Wobbly Cat Tree? [Step-by-Step Guide]
Conclusion
Before buying a cat tree, ensure that your animal’s unique traits and preferences are considered. If they are not interested in using the new tree, try and determine its root cause.
After you have determined the reason why your cat is avoiding the trees, you can start implementing the necessary steps to teach them how to use and enjoy your new furniture.
One of the most important reasons why cats love heights is that they provide them with protection. This is true both in nature and in the household. Although there are no predatory threats to cats in your home, they can still be scared of other animals, such as children and dogs.
