If you’ve ever watched your cat scale a bookshelf, perch on top of the fridge, or claim the highest spot on your wardrobe like it’s their personal penthouse, you’ve probably wondered:
Why do cats always want to be up high?
It’s not because they’re judging you from above (although it certainly feels like it). Climbing and seeking elevated spaces is deeply rooted in feline psychology and survival instincts. Understanding why cats crave height helps us create a safer, happier indoor environment — especially in Australian homes where indoor living is increasingly common.
Let’s break down the fascinating science behind your cat’s love for height and explore how the right cat furniture can support this natural behaviour.
1. Height Makes Cats Feel Safe
In the wild, elevation equals security.
Cats instinctively seek out high vantage points to:
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monitor their surroundings
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avoid potential threats
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prevent other animals from sneaking up on them
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observe without being disturbed
Even though your modern indoor cat no longer needs to hide from predators, the instinct remains strong.
When your cat settles on a high perch, they’re choosing safety. They know they can see everything, and nothing can quietly approach from behind. For shy or anxious cats, climbing becomes an essential coping tool.
2. High Spaces Give Cats Territory (and Confidence)
Cats are territorial animals.
They love controlling their space — and vertical territory counts just as much as floor space. In smaller Aussie apartments or townhouses, where floor area is limited, height becomes a valuable resource.
A tall tower or floor-to-ceiling cat tree gives your cat a:
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private area away from noise
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safe zone from kids or other pets
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status-boosting perch that helps build confidence
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clear “this is my spot” claim
This is especially helpful in multi-cat homes. More height = more territory = fewer conflicts.
3. Climbing Is Built Into Feline DNA
Cats evolved as agile climbers and hunters.
From leaping to scaling trees to stalking prey from above, climbing was essential for survival.
That’s why they naturally prefer:
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tall surfaces
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multi-level structures
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elevated walkways
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window perches
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ceiling-height vantage points
Indoor cats need a safe outlet for these instincts. Without one, they’ll use whatever they find… your bookshelf, kitchen bench, wardrobe top, or curtain rail.
4. Being Up High Helps Cats Relax
Cats love high places not only for safety, but also for comfort. Elevated spots reduce sensory overload because noises and movements feel more distant.
From above, your cat can observe the world without being in the thick of it.
This lowers stress and promotes calmer behaviour — especially during thunderstorms, visitors, or busy household moments.
A relaxed cat equals fewer behavioural problems, fewer arguments with the furniture, and fewer “why are you climbing the curtains?” moments.
5. High Perches Provide the Best View in the House
Cats love watching:
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birds
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insects
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cars
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the neighbour’s dog
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passing clouds
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your every move
A high spot next to a window is basically cat TV.
This is one of the reasons floor-to-ceiling cat trees are so popular — they give cats the height they crave and unrestricted access to the best views.
6. High Spaces Support Exercise and Joint Health
Indoor cats tend to move less than outdoor cats, which can lead to:
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stiffness
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weight gain
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boredom
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reduced mobility
Climbing provides:
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controlled exercise
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joint-friendly activity
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muscle strengthening
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balance and coordination development
A multi-level tower encourages natural, low-impact movement that’s especially beneficial for indoor-only cats.
Best Types of Cat Furniture for Height-Loving Cats
Since height is such a key part of feline psychology, the right furniture can dramatically improve your cat’s physical and emotional wellbeing. If your cat is constantly leaping onto cupboards or fridge tops, it’s a sign they need a safe vertical outlet.
Here are some great options, including a few customer favourites from Cat Tree Haven.
⭐ 1. Adjustable Floor-to-Ceiling Tall Cat Tree Tower
https://cattreehaven.com.au/products/adjustable-floor-to-ceiling-tall-cat-tree-tower-multi-level-condo-with-scratching-post-hammock-250-270cm
This is the ultimate vertical playground.
With heights reaching 270cm, it satisfies even the most adventurous climbers. Multiple perches and the hammock make it ideal for multi-cat homes.
Perfect for:
✔ high-energy climbers
✔ homes with limited floor space
✔ cats who love sleeping up high
⭐ 2. Adjustable 216–285cm Cactus-Themed High Tower
https://cattreehaven.com.au/products/adjustable-216-285cm-height-cactus-cat-tree-with-condo-hammock-high-cat-tower-scratching-post-for-cat-jumping-platfor
This one blends height with fun. The cactus design is quirky, the structure is solid, and the levels offer great mental and physical stimulation.
Perfect for:
✔ playful cats
✔ homes with modern décor
✔ boosting confidence in shy cats
⭐ 3. 110cm Modern Wooden Cat Tree
https://cattreehaven.com.au/products/110cm-modern-wooden-cat-tree-with-scratching-post-stylish-climbing-tower-for-kittens-cats
Lower height, but extremely stable and ideal for small apartments.
Perfect for:
✔ kittens
✔ senior cats
✔ renters needing a compact option
⭐ 4. Add Scratching Options to Complete the Setup
A high perch is great — but scratching is part of a cat’s climbing routine.
Explore the range:
https://cattreehaven.com.au/collections/cat-scratching-post
Scratching + climbing = a complete behavioural enrichment system.
How to Encourage Your Cat to Use High Spaces
Some cats take to high perches immediately. Others need a little encouragement. Here’s what helps:
✔ Place the tree near a window
Cats love a good view.
✔ Put treats or catnip on the upper platforms
A little bribery works wonders.
✔ Add a comfy bed or blanket
If it’s cosy, they’ll stay longer.
✔ Avoid placing towers in noisy, high-traffic areas
Cats prefer calm, predictable spaces.
✔ Use vertical “pathways”
Position furniture so your cat can climb step-by-step.
Why Height Matters More Than You Think
Cats who have access to high, safe climbing structures tend to be:
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calmer
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more confident
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less territorial
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more playful
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less destructive
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better at co-living with other cats
Height isn’t just a preference. It’s a psychological need.
When you give your cat access to elevated spaces, you’re giving them a safer, healthier indoor life — especially in Australian homes where indoor-only living is increasingly the norm.
Final Thoughts
Cats love height because it fulfils several core instincts: safety, confidence, exploration, and emotional balance. Understanding this helps us create a better indoor environment for them — one that respects their natural behaviours.
If your cat is constantly climbing furniture, the fridge, or your wardrobe, it's a gentle nudge telling you they need more vertical space. A secure, well-designed cat tower or floor-to-ceiling tree gives them a safe outlet to do what they love most.
For sturdy, height-focused designs that suit Aussie homes, you can explore the range at Cat Tree Haven — especially the floor-to-ceiling collection built for natural climbers.