
Katelynn Sobus / Cats.com
Cats have a natural desire to climb and survey their territory from on high. If you don’t have the floor space to accommodate a cat tree, a window seat might be the ideal solution. Window seats and perches also give your cat the opportunity to monitor outdoor goings-on while remaining safely inside.
For its hassle-free installation and sturdy yet lightweight frame, my top pick is the Furrfinity Rustic Indoor Cat Shelf. But it isn’t the best option for every situation. In this round-up, you’ll find a collection of ten different window perches for cats of all ages, sizes, and preferences.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for the Best Cat Window Seats & Perches
Furrfinity Rustic Indoor Cat Shelf
- Stylish, rustic design
- Made from sturdy wood and sisal rope
- Can hold 40 or 80 pounds depending on size chosen
Oster Sunny Seat Window-Mounted Cat Bed
- Lightweight with a reinforced plastic frame
- Industrial-strength suction cups hold up to 50 pounds
- Easy to attach directly to the window
K&H Pet Products EZ Mount Double Stack Window Hammock
- Sturdy option for large, heavy cats
- Doubles as a scratching post
- Wide base with suction cups for security
PetFusion Ultimate Cat Window Climbing Perch
- Sturdy option for large, heavy cats
- Doubles as a scratching post
- Wide base with suction cups for security
K&H Pet Products Deluxe Kitty Sill Cat Window Perch
- Thick padding with bolster for support
- No tools required for installation
- Supports up to 40 pounds of weight
Coziwow Kitty Window Perch
- Simple, minimalist appearance
- Can be installed on your window or wall using included suction cups or screws
- Comes with a thick pad for comfort
K&H Pet Products Thermo-Kitty Sill Cat Window Perch
- Includes a thermostatically controlled heating pad
- Orthopedic foam pillow with faux fleece cover
- Easy to assemble with no tools required
HAPYKITYS Window Cat Bed Moon Perch
- Choose from three beautiful bedding options
- Mounted by 4 large suction cups
- Holds up to 50 pounds
Zakkart Window Sill Cat Perch With Bolster
- No suction cups or tools necessary
- Puts weight on the window frame, rather than the glass itself
- Comes with a plush, machine-washable bed
AMOSIJOY Cordless Cat Window Perch
- Simple design without ropes or strings for your cat to get caught on
- Four strong suction cups hold the perch securely in place
- Bed cover is removable for washing or replacing as needed
K&H Pet Products EZ Mount Window Scratcher Kitty Sill Cradle
- Sturdy metal frame
- Cardboard scratchers are easy to swap out and replace
- Can be used as a bed, a perch, or a scratcher
Why Trust Cats.com
We scoured customer reviews, talked to other cat parents, and used our own expertise to choose the best products possible. Then, we purchased and tested the products ourselves, paying special attention to ease of assembly, the sturdiness of each perch, and how our own cats felt.
This article is a product of three members of the Cats.com family: Mallory Crusta, Kate Barrington, and Katelynn Sobus.
Are Cat Window Perches Safe?
If you’re skeptical that suction cups can hold up your cat’s perch, you’re not alone! I was also wary when I bought my first window perch, but they are generally quite safe.
Make sure to clean both the window and the suction cups prior to installation. If you’re having trouble getting the suction cups to adhere properly, soaking them in boiling water can help.
Of course, you’ll want to test the perch before allowing your cat onto it. I like to put a bit of pressure on it using my hand, just to make sure the suction cups hold strong.
I also tend to place the perches low on the window in case of any mishaps and check the suction cups regularly to ensure they aren’t coming undone.
While most perches hold plenty of weight, you might want to double check the weight limit if you have a large breed, an overweight cat, or two or more kitties who like to snuggle together!
How Do I Get My Cat To Use a Window Perch?
Some cats will figure out how to use a window perch through their own curiosity. If your cat needs a little encouragement, try sprinkling some catnip on the perch or lure your cat into it using their favorite treats.
I’ve also set my cat on the perch myself before. Once he knows it’s there, he’ll usually come back and snuggle in!
The Best Cat Window Seats & Perches: Our Top 11 Picks
What to Consider When Shopping for a Cat Window Perch
Setting up a window perch for your cat enables them to watch local wildlife from a safe distance and enjoy napping in the warmth of the sun. Many cat window perches feature a similar design, but there are a few factors that might make one model a better choice than another.
The best cat window seats and perches are easy to install and appropriately sized for both your window and your cat. Here are a few features to consider.
Mounting
Many cat window perches are designed with a rectangular frame that mounts directly to the window using suction cups. The suction cups should be at least 3 inches in diameter to ensure adherence. This type of perch is generally quick to install and easy to remove or reposition as needed.
Other window perches mount to the window sill using a strip of Velcro. One side of the strip is installed on the sill and the other on the underside of the perch. These models also typically include brackets to keep the perch level. The brackets can be permanently attached to the wall using screws for extra stability.
Size
Window perches for cats are typically rectangular or oval in shape and they come in various sizes. Choose a size appropriate for your cat but, more importantly, look at the weight limit of the product. Cat perches are generally rated for at least 20 pounds of weight but some hold up to 50 pounds.
Comfort
Suction cup-mounted window perches typically consist of a fabric-covered frame while Velcro-mounted perches are more shelf-like. The perch should be large enough for your cat to stretch out or curl up comfortably. Some perches come with extra padding or a removable mat to create a cozy sleeping surface.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do cats like window perches?
Every cat is different but many cats like having a view of the outside world. Window perches can be particularly beneficial for indoor cats prone to stress or boredom – they provide an opportunity for mental stimulation.
Are cat window perches and hammocks safe?
When properly installed, cat window perches are generally safe. Be sure to follow the mounting instructions carefully and make sure your cat doesn’t exceed the weight limit for the perch. For suction cup-mounted perches, soaking the suction cups in boiling water prior to use may improve adherence.
How do I get my cat to use a window perch?
Some cats will figure out how to use a window perch on their own out of curiosity. If your cat needs a little encouragement, try sprinkling some catnip on the perch or lure your cat into it using their favorite treats.
Thank you. I’m going to be adopting two kittens in a month, and I wanted to give them a way to reach the other side of my room without using the floor. The window perches should make it easier.
I was wondering if any of these could work on a glass double door?
Any window perch designed for glass windows should! Just make sure that it’s smooth glass without any panels that may get in the way of the bed, and make sure you can open the door properly with it on.