Relaxing Time With the Best Cat Window Perch
Animals are made for the wild, and no matter if you provide them with a comfortable home environment, you will never be able to take the wild from them. Cats also have a hint of the wild in them, so they cannot forgo their habit of scratching things, chasing objects, and hunting their food. A cat lover would understand their instincts and realize that they need an environment where they can pursue their hobbies. One of such hobbies is to perch. The primary reason for cat perching is to keep an eye on their prey or rival, explore, exercise, or get away from dogs, other cats, and some humans. Cats love perching to the extent that if you do not allow them to perch, they will make a place for themselves by pushing stuff off the table. To avoid such hassling situations, you can take help from the most stylish and highest-rated cat window perches in 2022.
Best Cat Window Perches Buying Guide
Why do cats perch?
In the beginning, we discussed that cats love to perch but what is the reason behind it? Many people are unaware of their cat's perching hobby, so they do not feel the need for a window bed for their cats. However, here are the reasons for cat perching:
Feel safe
Cats perch to feel safe. No doubt that your home is a safe place for the feline friend, but originally cats were not mighty hunters in the wild. The kittens were not apex predators of the wild, and the wild cats would become prey to canines, bigger cats, and large birds. Thus, cats always looked for a high place to stand where they could see the threats coming from a long distance. In your home, your kitty might not have a fear of getting eaten, but perching is an inherited trait of cats.
Seek prey
It is another trait that cats have inherited from their ancestors. Sitting on the high perch makes the cat see where their next prey is coming from, and is a means of getting them. Similar to feeling safe, seeking prey is also unnecessary at home, but some habits can never go.
Watch the world
Cats love to observe their surroundings as they are keen observers of nature. If a cat is living indoors, it needs plenty of things to keep it busy and stimulate its attention. While playtime and toys are a fun activity for your kitties, it is not enough and cannot replace their hobby of watching the activities outdoors. A perch allows your cat to curl up comfortably and observe the creatures outside.
Closer to nature
We do not make our cats go on a walk outside as we do for our dogs. Locking your cats indoors will have a negative effect on their mental state and health. Similar to how we need to connect to nature to keep us fresh and lively, cats also need a connection with the outside world while being safe. Hence, window perches allow your cat to view nature and connect with it while being safe in the boundaries of your house.
Types of cat window perches
We can classify cat window perches by answering two questions:
What is on top of the window perch?
Various perches have different kinds of tops that are suited for different breeds. While some perches are topped with a comfortable bed, others might have a carpeted platform, and some might have nothing at all. Some of the perches also have a soft hammock style (as seen above). If your cat loves soft and plush cushions to sit on, then you can place one on top of your window perch to make it a comfortable place for your feline friend.
How does the window perch attach?
Two of the most popular methods of fixing a window perch are fixing it on the wall with suction cups or by using screws. Suction cups are the most popular method for attaching the window perch, but sometimes these models cannot handle much weight. The most robust and durable form of window perches is the one that is screwed on the wall as it can handle more weight and stay in its place.
Important question to ask before purchasing a cat window perch
There are plenty of cat perches in the market, and if it is your first time buying one, you might feel confused. If you ask yourself these series of questions, it will make it easier for you to reach a decision:
Are your windows strong?
Before, windows were often single-glazed as they were made from only one pane of glass. These days, double glazed windows are gaining popularity and are often found in most modern buildings. You can tell the difference between both types by looking at the bottom of the window; you will see two separate panes in the windows of a double glazed window. A single glazed window is not very strong, and it cannot hold the weight of a large breed and fully grown cat. Hence, if you have single glazed windows, then it is better to avoid a window perch with suction cups.
What is the size and weight of your cat?
It is important to consider the weight and size of your cat because each perch has a weight limit. You will also have to consider your cat's breed because a Siamese will need a different perch than a Maine coon. It is best to get a perch that can handle more weight than your cat because sometimes the weight limit mentioned with the product reflects on a cat sitting still. However, your cat might be highly active and want to jump on and off from the perch. No doubt, you would never want the perch to collapse while your cat is sitting on it.
Compare the Best Window Perches Kit in 2022
K&H Pet Products
– Best Overall
Most cats enjoy a fluffy surface to relax on, so this K&H cat window perch is the perfect option. The cover is made from a cosy and warm fleece available in two colours; pale cream and zebra print. Both the prints are machine washable. Furthermore, the orthopaedic foam in the perch moulds its shape according to the cat, allowing your furry friend to feel immensely comfortable. The easy to install perch requires attaching the plastic mounts to the wall. Although the Velcro tape included with the perch can hold a cat of up to 40 pounds, it is better to screw it in the wall to avoid any accidents (screws are also included in the package). It is best to attach it to a windowsill as narrow as two inches because it will ensure strong positioning. While this perch version is unheated, you can also buy the same perch with a 6W heater to keep your cat snug and warm.
- Velcro tape included
- Machine washable cover
- Easy to install
- You cannot rely on the Velcro tape alone
LSAIFATER Cat Window Perch
– Runner Up
Next, we have a cat window perch that attaches to a window with four suction cups; two of the cups are attached to one of the rear edges while the remaining two are below the perch. Hence, it implies that there are no cords nearby when your cat sits on it, but there are two steel bars below the platform, making it robust. As these steel bars are sturdy, you might want to place a snug cushion on the perch to make it more comfortable for your cat. Moving on, you have two choices of size, large or medium. The medium perch is 20×11 inches, while the large one extends it by 4 inches. One important thing to note about this perch is that it relies on the downward weight, so if you shift the perch upwards, it will fall. This situation is unlikely to occur when your cat sits on top because it will be applying downward pressure on the perch.
- Easy to install
- Available in two sizes
- Holds up to 50 pounds
- Firm surface requires a fluffy cushion or blanket to make it comfortable
Pupagree Cat Window Perch
– Honorable Mention
Similar to our previous product, this one also operates on the functionality of suction cups. Hence, this cat window perch is easy to install and assemble in seconds. The frame of the cat perch is sturdy enough to hold the weight of the cat but, users tend to complain about the suction cups that do not stick well. If your cat is over 15 pounds, you might want to consider some other options. Moving on, the fabric mat and plastic pipes are odour-free and tough, so your feline friend can feel comfortable. You can maintain hygiene as the mat has removable fabric that is hand washable, non-deformable, and waterproof. To ensure customer satisfaction, the company claims that you can refund or replace the product in case of any defects.
- Easy to install
- Removable fabric that can be washed
- Refund and replace policy applicably
- Suction cups are not very strong
Topmart Pet Cat Window Perch
– Also Consider
You get two setting options with this cat window perch by topmart. You can either install the cat bed without any tools and minimal effort and it will be able to carry a weight of 20 pounds. However, if your cat is heavier than this, you can choose option B, in which you need to fix the perch seat in place with some tools. The bed is made from memory foam and has a soft velvety fabric on top to make the seating comfortable for your pet. Cats are fond of rolling around in their sitting area, so the window perch is made sturdy enough to withstand the movements of your cat. As far as hygiene is concerned, the cushion on top is removable and machine washable. On the downside, the perch does not have any additional support under the legs, so balancing it can be tricky for your cat, especially if you have a large breed. Secondly, it is not suitable for your cat to sit on the edge of the perch because the edges are thin and can bend easily.
- You can install it in two ways
- Easy to clean
- Comfortable and soft memory foam
- Does not have additional support under legs
Cats enjoy sunbathing, so the last hammock on our list is perfect for 360 degrees sunbathing without making your cat go outside in the garden. This cat window perch is made from steel wires and PVC, ensuring your cat can safely sit on it. Furthermore, the hammock is covered by a black mat that can be easily cleaned by hand but, it is not so comfortable and snugly for your feline friend. The breathability of this perch ensures that your cat does not feel overheated while sunbathing or enjoying the view outside. You can easily install the hammock within seconds because four suction cups operate it. The 3.3-inch diameter of suction cups allows for a strong grip on the window and can hold a cat of up to 33 lbs.
- Easy to install
- Easy to clean
- Breathable fabric cover
- Fabric is not so comfortable and snugly
Best Cat Window Perch FAQs
A: Yes, window perches are safe for your cat as long as you install them correctly and buy them according to the size of your cat. If you have bought a window perch with suction cups, then clean the window before installing.
A: Cats love window beds because it allows them to perch and view outside the boundaries of their home. You can add cushions, lining, or other material to make it a comfortable area for your cat. These perches can also fulfil the climbing instincts of your feline friend.
A: Cats enjoy looking out of the window as it connects them to nature and allows them to observe various creatures. It enhances their visual stimulations to deal with various situations.
