Cats might be small creatures, but they have big personalities — and equally big preferences when it comes to their furniture. Some cats adore cosy hideaways, while others want to scale the highest perch in the room like they’re surveying their kingdom. If you’ve ever wondered whether your home (or your cat) would be better suited to a small cat tree or a large cat tower, you’re not alone.

Choosing the right size isn’t just about aesthetics — it affects your cat’s behaviour, wellbeing, and even your furniture. And with more Aussie pet owners keeping their cats indoors for safety, picking the right climbing structure has never been more important.

In this guide, we break down the advantages of each option, what type of home they work best in, and how to match the cat tree size to your cat’s needs. We’ll also highlight a few popular options available at Cat Tree Haven, including some impressive floor-to-ceiling designs.

Why Size Matters When Choosing a Cat Tree

Before we compare small vs. large cat trees, it’s important to understand why height, width, and structure matter so much.

Cats climb for several instinctive reasons:

• to feel secure

• to burn energy

• to gain territory

• to observe their surroundings

• to relieve stress

• to avoid children, guests, or other pets

The right size tree can support all of these natural behaviours, while the wrong size might feel limiting or unsafe to your cat.

Small Cat Trees: Who Are They Best For?

Small cat trees typically sit between 70cm–120cm, offering just enough height for comfort without overwhelming a small living space.

✔ Great for kittens

Small trees help build confidence without the risk of long falls. They’re perfect for teaching young cats how to climb safely.

✔ Ideal for senior cats

Older cats often prefer lower platforms, gentle steps, and stable bases.

✔ Perfect for small apartments

In compact Aussie units where every square metre counts, a smaller footprint is a huge advantage.

✔ Less intimidating for shy or anxious cats

Some cats need time to warm up to higher perches. Starting small can ease their transition.

✔ Budget friendly

Smaller designs tend to cost less while still offering scratching, climbing, and lounging options.

Popular Small & Mid-Sized Recommendation: 110cm Modern Wooden Cat Tree

https://cattreehaven.com.au/products/110cm-modern-wooden-cat-tree-with-scratching-post-stylish-climbing-tower-for-kittens-cats

This stylish mid-sized tower is perfect for:

• apartments

• kittens or seniors

• cats who like climbing but not extreme height

It’s sturdy, beautifully designed, and blends into modern Australian interiors with ease.

Large Cat Towers: Who Should Choose Them?

Large towers range from 150cm to well over 250cm, offering generous vertical territory and multiple platforms.

✔ Best for active, high-energy cats

Indoor cats need enrichment — and tall structures help mimic the vertical challenges they’d encounter outdoors.

✔ Perfect for multi-cat households

More height = more territory = fewer conflicts.
Cats naturally organise themselves vertically, so giving multiple levels reduces tension.

✔ Ideal for confident climbers

Bold cats love scaling tall structures like tiny mountain lions.

✔ Great for homes with more floor or ceiling height

If you’ve got the space, large towers become a stunning feature in your living room or hallway.

✔ Encourages exercise and reduces boredom

The extra height, platforms, and movement support physical and mental stimulation.

Recommended Large Towers from Cat Tree Haven

⭐ 115–175cm Multi-Level Indoor Cat Tower

https://cattreehaven.com.au/products/115-175cm-large-multi-level-indoor-cat-tree-tall-cat-tower-condo-with-scratching-posts-boards-perches-caves
A fantastic mid-large option with multiple perches, wide boards, and a comfortable condo. Excellent for households with two cats or a single very active climber.

⭐ Adjustable Floor-to-Ceiling Cat Tree Tower (250–270cm)

https://cattreehaven.com.au/products/adjustable-floor-to-ceiling-tall-cat-tree-tower-multi-level-condo-with-scratching-post-hammock-250-270cm
This one is for the fearless climbers.
The tension-mounted design reaches right up to the ceiling, offering:

• maximum height

• unbeatable stability

• ideal window access

• plenty of lounging and climbing zones

Perfect for indoor cats who crave elevation and enrichment.

⭐ Lobby-Level Favourite: 99cm–120cm Range (Balanced Option)

If your cat likes height but you don’t want to go full ceiling-tower, mid-sized designs offer a perfect balance between space-saving and fun.

Still Unsure? Match the Tree Size to Your Cat’s Personality

Choosing the right size isn’t just about your home — it’s about your cat’s character.

1. The Acrobat

• Loves climbing

• Perches above everyone

• Zooms around the house
  Best choice: Large or floor-to-ceiling tower

2. The Observer

• Likes window views

• Prefers calm, quiet spaces
  Best choice: Mid-sized tower with wide perches

3. The Lounger

• Sleeps most of the day

• Prefers comfort over height
  Best choice: Small or mid-sized cat tree

4. The Multi-Cat Family

• Cats need their own levels

• Avoiding conflict is key
  Best choice: Large multi-platform tower

5. The Nervous Cat

• Needs confidence building

• Prefers stable, low platforms
  Best choice: Small tree first, then upsize later

Don’t Forget the Scratching Posts

Scratching is a huge part of climbing behaviour. Pairing your cat tree with the right scratching surface improves confidence and reduces furniture damage.

Explore the collection here:
https://cattreehaven.com.au/collections/cat-scratching-post

Adding floor-level scratching options also helps senior cats or nervous climbers feel more secure.

Small vs. Large: Which One Is Right for You?

Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:

Final Thoughts: There’s No "One-Size-Fits-All" Cat Tree

Both small cat trees and large cat towers have their place in an Aussie home.
The right choice depends on:

• your cat’s personality

• your living space

• your budget

• your cat’s activity level

For climbers, multi-cat families, or high-energy cats, a tall structure — like the floor-to-ceiling designs from Cat Tree Haven — offers fantastic enrichment and security.
For smaller spaces or low-confidence cats, a compact tree might be the perfect fit.

Either way, investing in the correct size tree will support your cat’s wellbeing and keep your furniture safe.