Last Updated: 1 month ago

If you think kitty furniture has to be tacky and ugly, you need to see these top 20 modern cat trees!

I’ve found you amazing structures that look more like modern art than cat furniture!

In other words, they’ll look so fantastic in your house that you’ll be proud to show them off.

Let’s start with a quick look at our top picks, then keep reading for all the glorious details.

Top Picks at a Glance

• Winner: TUFT AND PAW Milo Cat Tower
• Best Corner Cat Tree: Tuft and Paw Frond Cat Tree
• Best Budget Pick: Frisco Modern Cat Tree
• Best Modular: Katris Modular Cat Tree
• Best Tall: The Refined Feline Cat Tree

13 Best Modern Cat Trees Reviewed

In my search for the best modern cat trees, I headed to four of my favorite sites: Amazon, Etsy, CatsPlayFurniture, and Wayfair. Take a peek at what I found!

1. Winner: Tuft and Paw Milo Cat Tower

The Milo Cat Tower from Tuft and Paw has a gorgeous modern design that fits in perfectly with your minimalist decor.

It includes four platforms, a slide-like ramp, and a climbing/scratching post, all covered in durable carpeting.

Measurements & Materials

• The Milo stands at 62″ tall and takes up roughly 53″x15″ of floor space.
• Birch plywood with UV coating.
• Hammock is made of crystal

Benefits

• Made to last with real natural birchwood construction
• Rounded edges to protect kitty from injuries
• Big enough for multiple cats
• Minimalist carpeting (not plush like traditional cat trees)
• White design fits in with any decor

Drawbacks

• ONLY comes in white (so not ideal for homes with toddlers!)
• Super pricey
• Requires a good deal of floor space

How it compares to others

Tuft and Paw cat furniture isn’t cheap, but there’s a reason for that. Each piece is designed to last.

Unlike many competitors, this one is made from real wood, not particle board.

Recommendation

The Milo is definitely the big winner when it comes to the best modern cat trees, especially if you want something with a Scandinavian minimalist.

Yes, it’s very pricey, but as I said above, it’s built to last with durable real wood.

In other words, it will last throughout your cat’s entire life and beyond, so you won’t need to replace it every six months!

2. Best Corner Cat Tree: Tuft and Paw Frond Cat Tree

With a minimalist design that packs everything you need into a relatively small package, this 49″ tower is anything but tacky.

Measurements & Materials

• 24” W x 24” D x 49” H
• Solid ash, sisal, premium plywood, ash veneer

Benefits

• Elegant design that looks great in a corner
• Sisal posts from top to bottom
• NO carpeting to deal with
• Available in both Black or Ash (which is more like a beige)
• Suitable for cats up to about 12 lbs
• Relatively easy to assemble

Drawbacks

• Too small for larger cat breeds, like the Maine Coon
• Also pricey
• Made from plywood (premium, but still plywood)

How it compares to others

Compared to other Tuft and Paw trees, this one is pretty basic. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, as sometimes it’s exactly what we want.

The other major difference between this and the first one, this is more of a modern corner cat tree than the other. So if you lack space, it’s the better choice.

Recommendation

Tuft and Paw make amazing modern and the best cat furniture, and this is no exception. Even though it’s made from plywood, it’s still built to last.

However, if you have a giant kitty, you’re better off with another option.

While it’ll work for small to average cats, it’s a no-go for Maine Coons and other big breeds.

3. Best Budget Pick: Frisco Modern Cat Tree

The Frisco Modern wood cat tree tower is definitely one of the more unique offerings from Chewy.

While it does have some carpeting, it’s very tasteful (and removable).

Measurements & Materials

• 28 inches 15.3 inches 15.3 inches
• Platforms measure  15.3″x 15.3″
• Engineered Wood, Laminate,

BENEFITS

• Compact design is perfect for small spaces
• Washable and removable cushion
• Designed to fit into the corner of any room
• Minimalist style and light-gray color fit every decor

Drawbacks

• No replacement parts
• Rather small, so not great for big cats
• Not made from real wood (it’s “engineered” wood)
• Made in China

How it compares to others

The Frisco cat tree has a relatively small footprint compared to many of the others on this list.

Thanks to that as well as the square design, it’ll easily fit snugly into any corner of your house.

Plus, since it’s made by Chewy, it’s backed by their excellent customer service. If you hate it, return it. No hassle, no questions asked.

Recommendation

As long as you don’t have ginormous or elderly furry friends, I really think this is a great buy!

I personally use it as a “bedroom tree,” as my cat Zoe spends a lot of time in my room when she’s hiding from her feline brother Alex.

4. Best Modular: Katris Modular Cat Tree

We’ve seen this one many times before, as it’s one of our favorite cat trees of all time! However, I usually show you the bright and colorful cat tree option.

For a sleeker and more modern look, though, I like the black blocks.

Measurements & Materials

• Size varies by piece and configuration. Largest side is 32″, smallest is “8
• Heavy-duty cardboard

BENEFITS

• Completely modular, put it together however you want
• Since it’s modular and expandable, it’s a great modern cat tree for large cats
• Each block holds up to 300 pounds
• Comes with free catnip
• Plenty of vertical spaces for climbing

Drawbacks

• Can get expensive if you want to build a massive structure
• Only includes just enough clips to put it together, so if one breaks you’re in trouble
• Made from cardboard, not wood

How it compares to others

As mentioned above, it’s 100% modular, meaning you can stack it any way you like.

In fact, if you have the budget and the space, you could buy a bunch of them and literally create an entire cat wall!

You could even use it to create a bookshelf/cat tree combo structure!

Recommendation

While the price feels a bit high for something made of cardboard, it is incredibly durable and versatile.

Plus, since you can arrange it any way you want, it’s easy to create a space large enough for your big feline friends.

5. Best Tall: The Refined Feline Cat Tree

The Refined Feline modern cat climbing tree is one of the most popular options on this list, and it’s easy to see why. It’s positively gorgeous!

Measurements & Materials

• 20 x 20 x 69 inches
• Wood, Sisal, Faux suede

BENEFITS

• Stands 69 inches tall (which is tall to me!)
• While it’s carpeted, the color blends right in, so you can barely see it.
• Speaking of, it uses high-quality Berber carpeting, like the kind on your floors!
• Washable faux suede covers above and in the cave
• Pads are held on by Velcro and can be replaced.
• Platforms are large enough for most cats

Drawbacks

• Levels are a bit far apart, making it less than ideal for senior cats.
• Pricey
• Condo is not large enough for XL cat breeds (like Maine Coons on the bigger side)
• Very heavy, so it’s hard to move

How it compares to others

The overall style is among the greatest differences between the Lotus and others on this list.

While very modern, it’s not quite as “minimalist” as some other options. In other words, you don’t have to sacrifice fun for style.

Recommendation

This is definitely one of my favorite modern cat trees on Amazon!

If you read through the reviews, you’ll see that it’s built to last. Some users have had theirs for 6+ years!

6. Best Floor-to-Ceiling: Frisco Floor-to-Ceiling Cat Tree

When you’re short on space but still want to give your cat the ultimate climbing structure, what do you do?

Why, you look up, of course! A floor-to-ceiling cat tree like this one is a brilliant way to make use of every spare inch of your home.

Measurements & Materials

• 23.62 x 23.62 x 88 inches
• 19″x19″ platforms
• Engineered Wood

benefits

• Floor to ceiling design can be adjusted from 88 – 106″
• Secured to the ceiling using tension rods (included)
• Roomy 22.5″ bed for napping and relaxing.
• Sisal-wrapped post for scratching.

Drawbacks

• Made in China
• Minimum height is 7.3 feet, so not ideal for homes with very low ceilings
• Can’t use it on popcorn ceilings

How it compares to others

As you can see, it’s one of the only modern cat trees that span from floor to ceiling, making it perfect for cats who REALLY love to climb.

Unlike many similar options, this one doesn’t wobble. Customers call it one of the sturdiest trees they’ve ever owned.

Recommendation

If you have an average to slightly large kitty and want to make the most use of the space you have, this is a fabulous choice.

Although the perches and bed are large enough for most big cats, they may still be a bit too small for Maine Coons and other ginormous breeds, though.

Again, since it’s a Chewy exclusive, you can shop with confidence. I’ve never, ever, ever had an issue returning something to Chewy.

7. Most Attractive Design: Sauder 416821 Sphere Cat Tree

If you need a good modern corner cat tree, the Sphere by Sauder is a fantastic pick.

While the space-saving tree isn’t exactly as robust as some of the other options, it packs a lot of fun into a smaller package.

Measurements & Materials

• 21.65 x 19.88 x 43.7 inches
• Wicker, metal hardware, sisal

Benefits

• Cute circular house made from banana leaf material
• 1-year warranty
• Ships free
• Tripod base makes it a perfect fit for anywhere in your home, including corners.
• Sisal rope scratching post keeps cats from clawing your sofa.

Drawbacks

• Pricey for such a small cat tree
• The wood part is MDF, not real solid wood
• Max weight is 20lbs, so it’s not big enough for large Maine Coon cats
• Not ideal for more than one cat (unless they are very small and love to cuddle in one condo)

How it compares to others

The design on this one is totally different from anything else on our list, and anything you’d find in a local pet shop.

If you don’t have a lot of room to spare, the fact that it doubles as a cat bed is pretty awesome.

Recommendation

While I wouldn’t recommend it for families with more than one cat, the Adrienne is a beautiful wicker-like cat tree for a single-kitty home.

It’s relatively unassuming and blends well with pretty much any decor. The single piece of carpeting is stylish enough that it doesn’t scream “cat furniture!”

8. Best FOlding: zoovilla Modern Folding Cat Tree

Some of us don’t really have a lot of space and don’t exactly want a giant cat tree standing out when company comes. That’s where a folding tree comes in handy!

Measurements & Materials

• 40.16 x 16.85 x 60.24″
• Engineered wood

Benefits

• Folds up just like a ladder
• Multiple levels for kitties to climb and play on
• Easy to assemble
• Platforms are big enough for most cat breeds

Drawbacks

• Levels are carpeted (but they’re stylish carpets)
• Only comes in white
• A bit wobbly according to many users

How it compares to others

One of my favorite things about this cat tree compared to others is that I can use it as a shelf when my cat inevitably gets bored of it, thanks to the design.

I love cat furniture that does double duty like that!

Recommendation

Although I think it’s a bit on the pricey side for what amounts to a wooden ladder with carpeting, it’s definitely one of the more attractive folding cat trees.

It’s also very well-rated among users, so I don’t see how you can go wrong!

9. Best for Small Cats: Hollywood Floor to Ceiling Cat Tree

The Hollywood floor-to-ceiling cat tower may not look like much more than a few perches on a pole, but that’s actually the appeal for me.

Sometimes you just want something super simple that won’t stand out like a sore thumb or take up half of your floor.

Measurements & Materials

• Pole height can be adjusted from  87″ all the way up to 137″
• About 12″ wide
• The platforms stick out anywhere from 10-12″, depending on the model you choose.
• Made with wood and FLOR carpets (that’s the name of the brand, not a typo)

Benefits

• Perfect for small homes
• Comes in multiple colors
• Choose from 8 different configurations
• Order the pole from them or get your own from Ikea

Drawbacks

• Won’t work for extra-high vaulted ceilings
• Platforms are too narrow for XL cats
• The largest configuration is pretty pricey

How it compares to others

Aside from the obvious style differences, one thing I love about this cat tree versus other floor-to-ceiling options is the ability to completely customize your package.

For example, you can buy just the medium or large platforms, or a combo of both.

You can also choose to have them ship the pole with it (for an extra cost, of course), or order it yourself and maybe save some money if it’s on sale.

Recommendation

As much as I adore this modern cat tree, it’s really only a good fit if you have a small cat. The platforms are way too narrow for big kitties, especially breeds like the Maine Coon.

If you have the budget and the right-sized kitty, though, it’s a really sleek option. I particularly love the stone grey wood stain combined with Fedora Lagoon blue carpeting.

10. Best Bookshelf Option: CatsPlay Stylish Bookcase Cat Tree

This bookcase cat tree is perfect for those who want a modern-yet-vintage design.

While it has a very “Great Gatsby” feel to it, the angles and faux fur definitely fit my idea of what a modern cat tree should look like.

Measurements & Materials

• 13” x 18.5” platforms
• Wood, Sisal, Faux fur

Benefits

• Four platform styles and four frame colors
• Removable faux fur perches/beds
• Doubles as a spot for cat-friendly decor
• Replaceable sisal scratchpad

Drawbacks

• No information on overall dimensions
• A bit on the pricey side (but worth it for the durability)

How it compares to others

Compared to other modern bookshelf cat trees on our list, this one is better for those who want a minimalist design.

While the gold and white is very Art Deco, it does come in some more modern and crisp colors, including all white or all black.

Recommendation

With 13” x 18.5” platforms, it’s actually large enough for most breeds. While the overall dimensions aren’t listed (it’s a newer product, so I am assuming that’s an oversight), it does sit flush against a wall.

Like other bookshelf cat trees, this one is perfect if you prefer something that you can use even after your cat tires of it.

11. For All Sizes: PetPals Cat Tree

Ace Pet Pals makes a few different types of rattan-style trees, but this is the only one I’d really call “modern,” mostly because of the black and white design.

Measurements & Materials

• 27″x19″x49″inches
• Recylced paper rope

Benefits

• Eco-friendly materials
• Paw-friendly grooves on the top perch
• Multiple jute scratching surfaces (see drawback, though)
• You can assemble the bottom cubby to face any direction

Drawbacks

• Thin material isn’t ideal for heavy scratchers
• Not sturdy enough for larger cats

How it compares to others

While there are other eco-conscious options, Ace Pet Pals puts a strong focus on creating environmentally-friendly cat trees.

Recommendation

The materials are too light for cats like my Zoe who really go to town on scratching posts, but it’s fine for my “I’ll do the bare minimum to keep my nails ready for action, but that’s about it” Fuzz cat.

Given the very lightweight nature and the dimensions, I really only recommend it for kittens and small adult cats, though.

12. Best Wicker: MidWest Wicker Cat Tree

I’m a bit on the fence about whether this one is really considered modern or not.

On the one hand, rattan always feels more “farmhouse” than “hipster” to me. On the other, though, the overall design is pretty fresh.

Measurements & Materials

• 4.61 x 29.53 x 61.03 inches
• Rattan, Sisal, Engineered Wood

benefits

• All-natural rattan materials for a “natural beauty” look
• Stable enough for most breeds
• Easy to assemble

Drawbacks

• On the pricey side for what it is
• Only one color
• Only best for small to medium-sized cats

How it compares to others

The closest similar tree on this list is the Pet Pals one above. Between the two, this one is a bit pricier, yes, but it’s the better option in my opinion.

Where Pet Pals is ideal only for kittens and petite cats, this one is stable enough for all but the most ginormous of breeds.

Recommendation

Like I said earlier, it’s a coin toss on whether one can consider rattan modern. It really depends on your personal definition of the word and, of course, your tastes.

If you DO want a modern rattan cat tree, though, definitely go with this one if your cat is any larger than kitten or munchkin-sized.

13. Best Wall-Mounted: CatastrophiCreations Cat Tree

If you’ve read literally any of my other cat tree posts, you know I’m a big fan of CatastrophiCreations.

While I find them a smidge on the pricey side, they really are worth the high price tag.

Measurements & Materials

• Total Width: 38” Total Height: 60” Depth: 11”
• Solid Wood, Heavy Canvas

Benefits

• Completely modular, hang them however you’d like
• Wall-mounted space-saving design
• Strong enough to hold heavy cats

Drawbacks

• Expensive
• Requires mounting onto a stud, which can be hard for renters

How it compares to others

CatastrophiCreations is far from the only wall-mounted cat tree out there, but it’s definitely among the unique. It also has a pretty dedicated fan base compared to other brands.

Recommendation

If you can swing the high cost, the ONLY time I wouldn’t recommend these is if you’re a renter who can’t punch holes in the walls.

Other than that, they’re pretty much the coolest cat trees around, and perfect for those with a major lack of space.

Final Word

It’s hard to choose a favorite modern cat tree because it really depends on the look you’re going for.

Personally, I love the Tuft and Milo tree because it’s built to last a lifetime.

However, if you want something a bit subtler, I also adore the Refined Feline modern cat tree.

Your turn! Tell me below, which of these modern cat trees is your favorite?

Last update on 2024-04-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API