Cat Towers vs Cat Beds: Which Should You Buy First?

Bringing a cat into your home is an exciting experience. One of the first things pet parents think about is how to make their furry companion comfortable and happy indoors. Among the essentials, two items often compete for first place on the shopping list: cat towers and cat beds. Both are valuable in different ways, but if you need to choose which to buy first, it’s worth understanding how each benefits your cat’s health, behavior, and lifestyle. 

In this guide, we’ll explore cat towers vs cat beds, highlight their unique advantages, and help you decide which is right for your feline friend. We’ll also feature some of the best cat furniture in Qatar, available right here at First Vet.

What Are Cat Towers?

Cat towers, also called cat trees or scratching towers, are multi-level structures designed for climbing, scratching, resting, and playing. 

A cat tree is a multi-level structure made from wood and sisal, serving as a scratching post, climbing area, and resting spot for cats. They cater to a cat’s natural instincts to perch high, sharpen claws, and explore different levels in their territory. 

Towers often include scratching posts, platforms, hideaways, and sometimes hanging toys, making them a multi-purpose piece of furniture. 

At First Vet, we feature towers like the Be Nordic Cat Tower Juna by Trixie which combines style and function, and the Stefano Cat Tower XXL by Trixie designed for larger breeds or multiple cats. The Sergio Cat Scratching Post XXL by Trixie is another excellent option for cats that love stretching and sharpening their claws.

Benefits of Cat Towers

1. Encourage Natural Scratching Behavior

Scratching is a natural instinct that helps cats stretch, sharpen claws, and mark territory. Without proper outlets, cats may target your sofa or curtains. Towers with sisal-wrapped posts like the Sergio Cat Scratching Post XXL provide durable and cat-friendly alternatives.

2. Provide Vertical Space

In apartments and smaller homes, floor space can be limited. Towers add vertical territory, allowing cats to climb, jump, and perch without taking up much room. This makes them one of the best cat furniture in Qatar options for compact living.

3. Reduce Stress in Multi-Cat Homes

Cats often compete for territory. Towers with multiple platforms give each cat a place to relax, reducing tension and territorial disputes.

4. Mental and Physical Stimulation

Climbing, hiding, and leaping around a tower keep cats entertained and physically active, preventing obesity and boredom-related issues.

What Are Cat Beds?

Cat beds are designed specifically for comfort, providing a safe and cozy spot for your cat to nap. Since cats sleep for 12–16 hours daily, a bed is more than just a luxury—it’s a necessity. Beds come in many designs, from soft cushions to enclosed caves that mimic the feeling of security cats crave. 

At First Vet, options include the Bed Kaline Round by Trixie for classic round comfort and the Bed Square Kaline by Trixie for cats who like rectangular styles. Cats who love to burrow will enjoy the Cave Boho Soft Edition by Trixie, Cave Harvey Soft Edition by Trixie, and the Cave Livia by Trixie. For younger cats, the Junior Bed Square by Trixie is ideal, while the Lilly Bed by Trixie adds elegance and comfort to any room.

Benefits of Cat Beds

1. Promotes Better Sleep

Cats love warmth and softness. A dedicated bed helps them relax and achieve deeper, more restorative sleep, essential for energy and mood.

2. Provides a Sense of Security

Enclosed beds like the Cave Livia or Cave Harvey Soft Edition offer privacy and make nervous or shy cats feel safe. This is especially important in noisy households or apartments.

3. Protects Your Furniture

When your cat has a dedicated cozy spot like the Junior Bed Square, they’re less likely to sleep on your bed, couch, or laundry pile.

4. Complements Home Décor

Modern cat beds like the Cave Boho Soft Edition and Lilly Bed are designed to blend with your interior, combining functionality with style.

Cat Towers vs Cat Beds: Key Differences

Cat towers serve active purposes like exercise, scratching, and climbing, while cat beds provide comfort and security. Towers use vertical space, making them perfect as cat furniture for apartments, whereas beds occupy floor space but offer unmatched coziness. Towers reduce destructive scratching and stress in multi-cat homes, while beds ensure your cat enjoys quality sleep.

Which Should You Buy First?

A. For Active Cats

If your cat is playful, energetic, or prone to scratching furniture, a cat tower should be your first investment. It helps channel their energy into positive outlets while giving them a personal space to explore.

B. For Calm or Senior Cats

If your cat is more laid-back or elderly, a cat bed may be the better first purchase. Older cats benefit from the comfort and warmth of cozy cat beds in Doha like the Lilly Bed or Cave Livia.

C. For Small Apartments

When floor space is limited, prioritize a cat tower to maximize vertical territory. Compact models like the Be Nordic Cat Tower Juna provide both play and rest areas without cluttering your apartment.

D. For Multi-Cat Homes

A tower is often the better first buy since it provides multiple perches and reduces conflict. However, pairing a tower with beds ensures each cat has a designated resting spot.

Why Not Both?

In an ideal setup, your cat should have both a tower and a bed. Towers support exercise and enrichment, while beds cater to comfort and relaxation. Together, they create a balanced environment that supports both mental stimulation and physical rest. If your budget allows, starting with a smaller bed and a compact tower can be a smart compromise.

FAQs About Cat Towers vs Cat Beds

Q1: Do cats really need towers if they already have a bed?

Yes. Towers satisfy instincts like climbing, scratching, and perching. A bed alone won’t meet these needs.

Q2: Can a cat sleep in a tower instead of a bed?

Many towers include platforms or cubbies for resting, but dedicated beds are usually more comfortable and supportive.

Q3: How do I choose the best cat furniture in Qatar for my home?

Consider your cat’s age, activity level, and personality. Active cats benefit more from towers, while calm cats appreciate cozy beds.

Q4: Are cat scratching post benefits really that important?

Absolutely. Scratching helps cats stretch muscles, maintain claw health, and mark territory. Towers with scratching posts are vital for keeping cats happy and furniture safe.

Q5: What’s best for apartments—towers or beds?

For small apartments, towers are more efficient since they use vertical space. However, pairing a compact tower with a small bed gives your cat both play and rest areas.

Q6: Do you offer shipping to the Netherlands or Norway?

Yes, we offer shipping options to both the Netherlands and Norway. Please check our shipping menu or contact customer service for more details about availability and delivery times to these countries.

Conclusion

When it comes to cat towers vs cat beds, the decision depends on your cat’s personality, your home setup, and your budget. Towers are excellent for exercise, stimulation, and protecting your furniture, while beds are essential for comfort and security. Ideally, your cat should have both, but if you must choose, consider your cat’s age and activity level. Explore our full collection of cat towers and cat beds at First Vet Qatar to give your feline the perfect blend of play and rest.