What Is a Cat Jungle Gym?

A cat jungle gym is a type of climbing equipment for cats to exercise on. These gyms for active cats range in size and are generally multi-tiered. Cat gyms are sometimes referred to as cat condos or towers, while some styles are sometimes known as cat playgrounds. Jungle gyms for active cats may resemble a tree, and will often include attached toys. A cat jungle gym or playground may also be used as a scratching post, as most are carpeted or include sisal rope.

Cat owners purchase or make their own homemade cat jungle gyms for a few reasons. Climbing equipment for cats is essential, as cats are natural climbers. Therefore, a cat playground will provide the exercise a cat needs, while satisfying its natural instinct to climb or even forage for treats and toys. Toys or treats may be hidden in enclosed alcoves of certain styles of jungle gyms. Many of the cat playgrounds have little cubicle spaces for a cat to hide or nap in.

For napping, a cat jungle gym may have soft sleeping mats for comfort. Not all cat jungle gyms are matted, however. Some are more basic and created for the sole purpose of activity and exercise. It is important, however, for a cat playground or climbing tree to include some type of cushion to cause less impact on joints as the cat lands on the structure. Most of the climbing tree cat gyms are about 5 feet (1.52 meters) to 6 feet (1.82 meters) tall.

Many options and designs are available in a cat jungle gym structure. From the very basic, to the more elaborate and spacious, these products may be purchased at pet supply stores or online. A tree house cat gym is one of the more extravagant designs. This style typically features a tall base with a few platforms, and an enclosed house design at the top of the structure.

A cat jungle gym may also be large enough for several cats to play on at once. These styles are convenient for those who own more than one cat. Some of these styles are created with various tunnels for hiding. Cats living in a multi-cat home often like some solitude and this type of gym generally provides that. Some styles of cat jungle gyms also have a small cat bed attached at either the top or bottom of the structure.