Cat Ignores Top Bed on Cat Tree? Here's What to Do

Quick answer

If your cat ignores the top bed on the cat tree, start by making the bed more inviting with a familiar blanket or treat, and ensure the tree is stable and placed in a social area. If your cat still prefers lower spots, it may simply be a personality preference—offer a lower cozy alternative and let your cat choose.

You bought a tall cat tree with a plush top bed, but your cat sleeps on the floor or curls up on the sofa instead. This is a common puzzle for cat owners, and the solution isn't always about the bed itself. Cats are creatures of habit and comfort, and their choice of sleeping spot depends on several factors beyond just height.

Understanding why your cat avoids the top bed is the first step. It could be about stability, temperature, location, or even your cat's age and confidence. Let's work through the likely causes and practical fixes so your cat can enjoy that premium perch—or you can find a better spot for them.

Why Your Cat Avoids the Top Bed

Cats are natural climbers, but not all cats feel confident at heights. Senior cats, kittens, or cats with mobility issues may find jumping to a high platform uncomfortable. The top bed on a cat tree can also feel exposed if it's in a high-traffic area, or too warm if it's near a sunny window. Some cats simply prefer the security of a lower, enclosed space.

Another common reason is that the cat tree wobbles. If the tree isn't stable, your cat will avoid the top bed because it feels unsafe. Check that all screws are tight and that the tree is placed on a level surface. For extra tall trees like the Tiger Dark Grey, which stands at 67 inches, stability is especially important.

• Observe where your cat sleeps most often and note the temperature, noise, and foot traffic in that spot.
• Test stability by gently pushing the top of the tree—if it moves, tighten the screws or reposition it.

How to Entice Your Cat to Use the Top Bed

Start by making the top bed smell like your cat. Place a worn t-shirt or a blanket your cat already sleeps on in the bed. Cats rely heavily on scent for comfort, and a familiar smell can make a new bed instantly more inviting. You can also sprinkle a little catnip or place a favorite toy on the bed to encourage exploration.

Position the cat tree near a window with a view, but not in a drafty or overly sunny spot. Cats love to watch birds and outdoor activity, and a good view can make the top bed more appealing. If your cat still hesitates, try placing treats or a small meal on the bed to create a positive association.

• Use a soft brush to transfer your cat's scent from their cheeks to the bed fabric.
• Reward your cat with praise and a treat every time they jump onto the top platform.

When to Accept Your Cat's Preference

If you've tried scent, treats, and repositioning, but your cat still prefers the floor or a lower spot, it may be a personality preference. Some cats are simply grounded by nature—they feel safer with all four paws on the floor. Forcing a cat to use a high perch can cause stress and actually reduce their interest in the cat tree altogether.

In that case, consider adding a lower, cozy bed or a cat house at the base of the tree. Many cat trees, like the Big Cat Palace Beige, include a hideaway at the bottom that appeals to cats who like to feel enclosed. Your cat may use the lower level while still enjoying the scratching surfaces and vertical space.

• Watch for signs of stress like flattened ears, tail flicking, or avoiding the tree entirely.
• If your cat uses the lower levels, celebrate that—they're still getting the benefits of scratching and climbing.

Diagnosis: Is It the Bed, the Tree, or Your Cat?

• Symptom: Your cat sleeps on the floor or on furniture instead of the top bed on the cat tree. This is a common issue with multiple possible causes.
• Likely cause: The top bed may be unstable, in a poor location, or simply too high for your cat's comfort. Age, health, or personality can also play a role. Assess the tree's stability and your cat's physical confidence.
• Corrective action: Make the bed smell familiar, add treats or toys, reposition the tree near a window, and ensure the tree is rock-solid. Provide a lower alternative if needed. Give your cat time to adjust—don't force it.
• When to stop or choose another option: If your cat continues to avoid the top bed after several weeks, accept the preference and ensure the cat tree offers lower, cozy spots like a hideaway or a lower platform. Your cat's comfort matters more than the perfect perch.

Cat Trees That Cater to Different Preferences

• Tiger Dark Grey: The Tiger cat tree stands at 67 inches in height and boasts three levels, with a spacious 24-inch by 17-inch bed perched on top. Two large 18-inch diameter hammocks provide additional space for your feline friends to unwind and snooze. If your cat loves heights but ignores the top bed, the hammocks on this tree offer alternative high spots that might feel more secure or comfortable.
• Big Cat Palace Beige: The Big Cat Palace Cat Tree, with its 6 inch thick sisal poles, is highly suitable for large, heavy and even several cats. This stylish beige cat tree has a cat hideaway and a large cat lying area. For cats that prefer lower, enclosed spots, the hideaway on this tree gives them a safe retreat while still using the cat tree.

A cat that ignores the top bed isn't broken—it's just communicating a preference. By addressing stability, scent, and location, you can often turn that unused perch into a favorite spot. If not, respect your cat's choice and make sure the tree offers comfortable alternatives at ground level. The goal is a happy, relaxed cat, whether they're up high or down low.