Published August 9, 2026 · Reviewed by the Unbiased Advice & Insights editorial team · How we research and score
Your cat may ignore the tower due to poor placement, unfamiliar scent, or instability. Move it near a window, rub catnip on it, and reward any interaction.
You bought a beautiful cat tower, but your feline friend treats it like a piece of furniture to avoid. This is a common frustration among cat owners. The good news is that most cats can be encouraged to use their tower with a few simple adjustments. In this guide, our editorial team compared buyer feedback and key decision factors to help you turn that expensive scratching post into your cat's favorite hangout.
Why It Happens
Cats are creatures of habit and instinct. When they ignore a new tower, it's usually for one of three reasons:
- Location: Cats want to be where they feel safe and can observe their territory. If the tower is hidden in a corner or a high-traffic area, they may avoid it.
- Scent: Cats rely heavily on smell. A new tower smells like the factory or warehouse, not like home. They need to mark it with their own scent before they feel comfortable.
- Instability: A wobbly tower is a safety hazard. Cats are agile but cautious. If the tower shakes when they climb, they will quickly learn to stay away.
Other factors include the tower's height, the texture of the scratching posts, and the cat's age or personality. Senior cats may prefer lower perches, while kittens need more interactive features.
How to Fix It
Here are actionable steps to encourage your cat to use the tower:
- Place it near a window: Cats love to watch birds, cars, and people. Position the tower so your cat can see outside. If possible, place it near a sunny spot. This makes the tower a prime observation point.
- Introduce the scent: Rub a soft cloth on your cat's cheeks and then wipe it on the tower. This transfers their facial pheromones, making the tower smell familiar. You can also sprinkle a little catnip on the platforms or scratching posts. For cats that don't respond to catnip, try silver vine or valerian root.
- Make it stable: Check the tower's base. If it wobbles, place it against a wall or add a heavy weight to the base. Some towers come with anti-tip brackets. A stable tower gives your cat confidence.
- Use positive reinforcement: Whenever your cat shows interest in the tower, even just sniffing it, give them a treat or praise. You can also use a wand toy to play with your cat on and around the tower. This creates a positive association.
- Gradual introduction: If your cat is hesitant, don't force it. Start by placing treats at the base, then on the first step, and gradually higher over several days. You can also feed your cat near the tower so they associate it with good things.
- Adjust the tower: If your cat still ignores it, consider the tower's design. Some cats prefer tall towers with multiple perches, while others like cozy hideouts. If the scratching posts are too rough or too smooth, try different materials. You can also add a soft blanket or a piece of your clothing to a perch to make it more inviting.
Remember, patience is key. Some cats take weeks to warm up to new furniture. Consistency and positive reinforcement will eventually win them over.
When to Replace
If you've tried everything and your cat still avoids the tower, it might be time to replace it. Here are signs that a new tower is needed:
- The tower is damaged: Torn carpet, loose screws, or broken perches make the tower unsafe and unappealing.
- It's too small: If your cat has outgrown the tower, they may not be able to stretch or climb comfortably.
- It's the wrong style: Some cats prefer floor-level beds, while others need high perches. If your cat never uses vertical space, consider a cat condo or a simple scratching post.
- It's in a bad spot: If you can't move the tower to a better location, replacing it with a more flexible model might help.
When choosing a new tower, look for one with a sturdy base, quality materials, and features that match your cat's preferences. Read reviews from other cat owners to see what works.
Our editorial team compared specifications and buyer feedback to identify common pitfalls. A common issue is that many towers are too short or too unstable for active cats. Look for towers with a wide base and high-quality sisal rope.
Another tip: some cats are more attracted to towers that have a variety of textures, like carpet, sisal, and faux fur. This gives them options for scratching and lounging.
Finally, remember that every cat is unique. What works for one may not work for another. Observe your cat's behavior and adjust accordingly. With a little effort, you can turn that ignored tower into your cat's favorite spot.
More guides
See our full buying guides hub and our research and scoring methodology. We compared specifications and verified owner feedback; we did not physically test every product.