Looking for the best cat window perch for your kitty? Then you are in the right place. We are reviewing the five best cat perch options currently available, and we are confident we’ve got something for everybody.
We’ve included budget-friendly options as well as amazing deluxe models. And to help you make an informed choice, there is also a buying guide that highlights the most important features to consider when choosing a perch for your cat.
And don’t forget our popular frequently asked questions section at the end. It’s a must-read. We answer all your questions regarding cat window perches, from the different styles available to installation, and location. We also explain why cats like high places and windows as much as they do.
Overall Winner
Four suction cups and two stainless steel support cables provide your cat with a safe and secure perch in his favorite sunspot. The window perch has got the Humane Society’s seal of approval, and with a durable frame and hammock that can withstand daily use, it’s built to last.
The perch is available in small, medium, and large, and can hold up to 25 pounds. Because it is so easy to install, it’s portable and perfect for use indoors as well as outside. The only negative, although it’s not a dealbreaker, is that it isn’t sold with a cover, so you’ll have to purchase that separately.
Also, the Kitty Cot is a little more expensive than some of the other products reviewed here. But having said that, it’s well-made and incredibly durable, so if you can afford it, it’s definitely worth the investment.
What we like:
- It is easy to clean with water and soap
- Humane Society approved
- It is easy to install and is weather-resistant
- The suction cups keep the perch stable, while the support cables provide additional support
- It can be attached directly to windows or glass
What we don't like:
- It is one of the more expensive options
- It doesn’t have a cover or cushion of any sort
Best Luxury Window Bed
We like that this window cat perch can be installed for quick cat naps, using the hook and loop system. Or, if you prefer it to be a more permanent fixture, you can attach it with screws. Depending on your kitty’s needs, there is a heated model available, although we found the detachable bolster does a pretty good job protecting your favorite feline from any drafts.
Pros
- It is straightforward to install and doesn’t require any tools
- It features a removable and washable cover
- It provides your cat with the orthopedic support he needs
- With a weight capacity of 40 pounds, it’s suitable for heavy breeds
- It can be mounted permanently with screws or temporarily with the hook and loop
Cons
- Because of the design, this can only be fitted if you have a window sill
Best Cat Window Perch on a Budget
The soft pad is comfortable for even the fussiest feline, and it comes with a removable machine washable cover. If you’re looking for a well-made, durable cat bed at an affordable price, you’ll love the Oster Sunny Seat cat bed.
Pros
- It is easy to attach and comes with a machine washable cover
- It holds up to 50 pounds
- Affordable and durable, Oster is a trusted brand name
Cons
- A few customers have mentioned that the suction cups don’t stick as well as they should
Best Choice for Larger Cats
As far as we’re concerned, this is one of the best cat window perch options available. It’s worth mentioning that this particular window mount perch is one of the more expensive products reviewed here, but given how much cats love it, we think it’s money well spent.
Pros
- It’s one of the few window mount cat bed options that can hold up to 80 lbs
- The robust and durable design suits every style of home
- It offers cats an unobstructed view of what’s going on outside
Cons
- It is one of the more expensive options reviewed
Best Hanging Hammock
We like that it’s waterproof on the one side, and soft on the other, making it a versatile option that can be used all year round. The hammock is lightweight and portable and can be stored away when not in use. It’s well-priced in our opinion, and customer feedback is good with regards to the hammock’s durability, sturdiness, and ease of cleaning. It’s available in three different colors and is machine washable.
Pros
- It is an excellent travel hammock that’s easy to hang
- The sturdy design supports up to 35 pounds
- The hanging bed is available in three different colors
- It is easy to clean and has a waterproof side for outdoor use
Cons
- Cats love it, but some customers feel the straps could be more adjustable
Our Top 5 Cat Window Perches
- Kitty Cot Original World’s Best Cat Perch
- K&H Pet Products Kitty Sill Cat Window Hammock Perch
- Oster Sunny Seat Cat Window Perch
- Ultimate Cat Perch
- CUSFULL Cat Hammock Bed Comfortable Hanging Pet Hammock
Should You Buy a Window Perch for Your Cat?
Absolutely! Not only do cats have a natural instinct to climb, but they’re also hardwired to watch their’ prey,’ albeit the neighborhood dog or squawking parrot across the street. Providing your kitty with a window perch allows him to tap into his inner lion, in a safe and secure environment.
Experts talk about the importance of enriching your cat’s environment to prevent anti-social behavior, including anxiety, depression, excessive grooming, as well as eating disorders. A window perch is a great way to stimulate your pet physically and mentally and provide him with a spot to call his own.
Cats love sleeping, and we found that as Oscar and Joey get older, they prefer lying on a raised platform rather than a cold, hard floor. Also, if your kitty isn’t getting enough vitamin D, placing a window bed in a sunny area is the perfect opportunity for him to soak up all the goodness he needs.
Buying Guide for the Best Cat Window Perches
The cat window perches we have reviewed are all excellent options, but they might not necessarily tickle your fancy, or suit the needs of your pet. That’s okay, we get it. There are thousands of products to choose from, but be warned, some are definitely better than others.
To help you in your search, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide that highlights the most important features to consider when buying a perch for your kitty.
Essential Features to Keep in Mind
The size of the cat window perch
When choosing the best cat window perch for your pet, it’s important to get the sizing right. It’s a good idea to measure his bed, and then base your purchase on that. Even if he likes to sleep curled up in a tight ball, it’s worth getting a perch with ample space for stretching out.
How much weight can it support
Chances are the perch is going to become your cat’s No.1 spot, so it’s going to have t support his weight. And if you have multiple cats, you will need to keep that in mind too. Most cat window perches can hold up to 35 pounds, but some brands have a weight capacity of up to 80 lbs and even 100 pounds. We recommend choosing a window bed that can support a lot of weight, rather than too little.
What materials is it made from
For absolute peace of mind, go for a perch made of quality materials. Durable fabrics, stainless steel frames, or PVC piping is what you should be looking for, along with a removable and washable cover. There are products available with waterproof fabric, which are easy to keep clean and care for.
How sturdy is it
To prevent any ‘catastrophes,’ it is best to choose a cat window perch with strong suction cups, stainless steel support cables, and a solid base. Test it out before your kitty does, to make sure it stays attached. Cats like to pounce, so keep that in mind when checking the bed’s sturdiness.
Is it comfortable
The best cat window perches are comfortable. And for older cats, it’s worth considering a deluxe bed with orthopedic foam. It won’t go flat over time and will give your kitty the support he needs. If age or health isn’t a concern, you could opt for a hammock-style bed that cradles your cat. It’s a good idea to choose a cat window perch that mimics your pet’s sleeping style.
What kind of windows do you have
Generally, window perches are easy to install, but you need to think about the type of windows you have in your home. The most common types are hung windows, hinge or stationary windows, and casement windows. Knowing what style of window you have before you buy will save you a lot of time and frustration.
Ease of Use and Care
Make sure the perch you choose is easy to install and keep clean. Products with removable and washable covers are especially good, as are those made with waterproof material.
Type of Cat Window Perch
You can choose between a box styled window perch, a hammock, or a pod. All three are popular, and as long as your cat’s happy, the final decision will depend on your personal preference and budget.
Colors and patterns
Less critical than sturdiness, size, and weight capacity, but still something to think about is the color of the kitty window perch. Unless it’s going to be a feature in your home, we suggest going for a pattern or color that is inconspicuous and fits in with any kind of decor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do cats like high perches?
Cats are programmed to like heights. You see, long before your feline was perching on a window sill or preparing to pounce from the kitchen cupboard, his ancestors were doing the same thing in the wild. It’s how they hunted for food, hid from potential predators, and established a pecking order. In a nutshell, high perches are how cats have survived through the years,
Why do cats like to look out the window?
The bottom line is cats are curious, and windows provide them with the visual stimulation they need to stay healthy, both physically and mentally. Windows with a view are a cat’s version of reality TV, and they love catching up on their daily soaps, docuseries, thrillers, and whodunnits from the comfort (and safety) of their home.
Are there different types of cat window perches?
There are three different cat window perch options to choose from, so you’ll definitely find something to suit your needs. They are as follows:
Windowsill cat window perch
Windowsill perches aren’t attached to the window. Instead, they’re supported with brackets on the sill itself.
Hanging perch
A hanging perch is attached to a window with cables and suction cups. They’re particularly easy to install and can be moved from one area to another. Hanging perches are popular because of their versatility and affordability.
Box window perch
Also called the couch window perch, the box cat window perch is closed on the one side to give your pet the support he needs. But it still provides your curious kitty with an unobstructed view of the world outside. Like hanging perches, they’re also attached to the window with suction cups.
How easy is it to install a window perch?
The good news is installation is easy, but some are more straightforward than others. The perches that hang from the window use suction cups. For cups to stick, the windows should be clean and dry. Windowsill perches take a little more work, but it’s certainly not a complicated process. These are installed with velcro or brackets, and all the necessary tools are included with your purchase.
Where is the best place to put a cat window perch?
The perfect spot for a window perch will have loads of sun and a view with loads of activity. Whether it’s overlooking a park, the street, or your yard, the constant coming and going of people will keep your pet entertained for hours. If necessary, you could create an activity area by placing a bird feeder in your garden.
Can a window perch be used all year round?
While a window perch is especially good for indoor cats, or when your outdoor boy is stuck inside, they can (and should) be all year round. In fact, we dare you to try to stop your cat using it.
As you can see, a window perch isn’t a nice-to-have item, it’s a must-have. Not only does it provide your cat with the visual stimulation he needs to stay happy and healthy, but it’s also his very own chill-out spot where he can relax, ‘predator’ free.
Before you go, why not tell us what you think of the perches we’ have reviewed? Have we included your favorite? If not, tell us about it. We would also love to see a photo of your kitty chilling out on his perch.
