7 Cactus Cat Scratchers & Cat Trees for Southwestern Flair
by Ysolt Usigan
Updated on March 14, 2024
From clothing to home decor, the desert-vibes trend is everywhere right now – including pet products!
If you’d like to incorporate a little Southwestern flair into your feline friend’s routine, check out these fun and unique cactus cat scratchers, trees, and towers.
When creating this list, we considered a range of styles and price points to suit the needs of every kitty and household. But one thing is for sure across the board: these desert-inspired cat structures provide fun for pets and humans alike.
Our Top Picks:
- Best Overall: PAWZ Road Cat Tree
- Best for Small Spaces: SmartyKat Sisal Angle Cat Scratch Ramp
- Best Designed: McCourt Cat Tree
- Best on a Budget: T2Y Cat Scratching Post in Cactus
- Best Cat Condo: DINOSAM Cat Tree 2-in-1 Cactus Cat Bed and Scratching Post
- Most Luxurious: Blooming Cactus Cat Tree
- Tallest Tower: The Cactus Cat Tree
7 Best Cactus Cat Scratcher and Cat Trees
All featured products are chosen at the discretion of the author. However, Vetstreet may make a small affiliate commission if you click through and make a purchase.
Best Overall
Our Pick: PAWZ Road Cat Tree
This cat tower comes equipped with cactus-shaped scratching posts, multiple levels, a fuzzy ball, a couple of cozy perches, and one enclosed house. Whether your cat wants to nap or play, this all-purpose structure is a one-stop shop. Buyers are impressed by the cute design and easy assembly.
Highlights
- Features three rest areas
- Dangling pom-pom is detachable
- Removable perch cover is machine washable
Things to Consider
- Not recommended for large cats
- Platform is also not anchored
Best for Small Spaces
Our Pick: SmartyKat Sisal Angle Cat Scratch Ramp
Need a scratching ramp but don’t have a lot of room? This compact, high-quality ramp includes catnip and fits nicely in small spaces. Measuring 15.25″L x 7″W x 7″H, the incline is ideal for cats who like an angle when they scratch. The strong, stable wooden structure holds the weight of most cats and is made of durable woven sisal fibers.
Highlights
- Great for all breeds and sizes
- Allows cats to stretch and exercise the back and shoulder muscles when scratching the ramp
- Comes with organic catnip
- Nicely priced and affordable
- Made to withstand even the toughest of kitty claws
Things to Consider
- Only available in one color, tan
- Cats who don’t like an angled ramp may refuse to use it
Best Designed Cactus Cat Tree
Our Pick: McCourt Cat Tree
If you want a showpiece, look no further. This oversized cactus cat tree might remind you of a bookcase, but it’s specially made for cats. Featuring several levels for napping and active play, it’s topped off with a fun “nap bowl” for cats who appreciate a snooze with a view.
Highlights
- Tip-resistant design and non-skid base for safe climbing
- Has a generous weight capacity of 90 pounds
- Available in two heights (47” and 59”)
Things to Consider
- Assembly required
- Yellow cushions are not included
Best on a Budget
Our Pick: T2Y Cat Scratching Post in Cactus
This cute, budget-friendly cat tower doesn’t skimp on the fun. Featuring a sturdy wood base, it’s wrapped in textured corduroy and sisal for all your pet’s scratching needs. Your cat will love the dangling ball, and you’ll enjoy the low-key Southwestern aesthetic.
Highlights
- Features three scratching posts at different heights
- Cozy texture for napping and scratching
- Affordable price point
Things to Consider
- Assembly required
- Might be too small for larger cats
Best Cactus Cat Condo
Our Pick: DINOSAM Cat Tree 2-in-1 Cactus Cat Bed and Scratching Post
Does your cat love cozy spaces? We found just the place. This fun desert-themed condo features a decently-sized enclosure with multiple entry points, a sisal-covered scratching post, and a dangling ball to entice your little tiger’s prey drive.
Highlights
- Simple, sturdy construction
- Easy assembly
- Engaging textures
Things to Consider
- Suitable for small to medium cats
- Lacks a perch
Most Luxurious Cactus Cat Tree
Our Pick: Blooming Cactus Cat Tree
If your kitty enjoys the finer things in life, this hand-crafted cactus cat tree is quite the treat. Topped with a silky flower-shaped bed, it’s crafted from all-natural hemp rope and pet-safe, corrosion-resistant dyes.
Highlights
- Vibrant colors
- Durable, pet-safe materials
- Easy to assemble
Things to Consider
- Higher price point
Tallest Cactus Cat Tower
Our Pick: The Cactus Cat Tree
Handmade in Austria, this cactus tower is one of the tallest we’ve found at 46 inches. Made of natural sisal and solid wood, it can be customized to fit in with your existing decor. Choose from several color combinations for the main structure, as well as the flowers and ribbons.
Highlights
- Taller than most cat trees
- Customizable color options
- Sturdy construction
Things to Consider
- Custom-made in Austria, so factor in longer times for shipping
Cactus Cat Scratcher and Tree Buyer’s Guide
Before purchasing a cactus cat tree or cactus cat tower, it’s important to know what to look for. Consider the following:
- Tip-resistant construction. Look for designs that are tip-resistant, with wide, heavy bases. And remember, no design is “tip proof.” Depending on your cat’s size, weight, and energy level, even the sturdiest cat tree can fall, so be sure to place it somewhere safe in your home.
- Size. If you have multiple cats, select a design with a few perches and levels to keep each kitty entertained and comfortable.
- Number of features. Cat trees can take up a lot of room, so it’s nice to make the most of the space. Models with dangling toys and multiple scratching surfaces maximize the entertainment.
- Aesthetics and design. Your cat may not care about colors or design nuances, but you’ll want to select a cat tree that fits in reasonably well with the rest of the room’s decor.
Pay attention to your cat and what they seem to like best. If your cat has pain or arthritis, always talk to your veterinarian as this may deter them from using a scratching post.
