We all know it—our furry companions have an undeniable obsession with climbing. From scaling bookshelves to perching atop the refrigerator, cats are always on a quest to conquer the highest points in the house.

But why do they seem especially drawn to trees? It turns out, this behavior is deeply rooted in their evolutionary instincts and offers them both security and entertainment.

The First Cat Was a Climber

Millions of years ago, the earliest ancestor of modern cats, Proailurus, was already a skilled climber. This small, agile feline thrived in forests, using trees as a refuge from larger predators and as a vantage point for spotting prey. Over time, this climbing instinct never faded. Even though our domestic cats no longer need to hunt for survival, they still retain this natural urge to scale heights.

Climbing for Safety and Strategy

For our feline friends, climbing is not just about fun—it's a survival instinct. In the wild, a higher perch gives them an excellent view of their surroundings, allowing them to detect threats and opportunities. By staying above ground, they can evade potential dangers while also gaining a better angle to pounce on unsuspecting prey.

Even for indoor cats, this instinct persists. They prefer high places because it gives them a sense of security and control over their environment.

Indoor Cats Still Love to Climb

Even without predators lurking around, our house cats still crave the excitement of climbing. Why? First, it's a fantastic way for them to exercise. Climbing helps them stretch their muscles, refine their balance, and keep their claws sharp. Second, it provides a form of mental stimulation. Just as we enjoy solving puzzles or exploring new places, cats find joy in navigating different heights and testing their agility.

The Need for High Perches

Beyond physical activity, cats also climb to establish social hierarchy. In a multi-cat household, the dominant cat often claims the highest perch as a display of authority. If we notice one cat frequently occupying the tallest spot, it's likely their way of asserting their position. To keep every kitty happy, having multiple cat trees or elevated spaces can help prevent conflicts.

Height Equals Comfort

Another lesser-known reason cats seek out high places is warmth. Heat naturally rises, making elevated spots cozier than the ground. Whether it's a sunlit windowsill or the top of a cat tree, they instinctively choose these locations to relax and nap in ultimate comfort.

How We Can Support Their Instincts

Since climbing is such an integral part of a cat's nature, we should provide safe opportunities for them to do so. Investing in sturdy cat trees, wall-mounted shelves, or even a designated climbing space ensures they can enjoy their natural behavior without turning our furniture into their personal jungle gym.

Does your cat have a favorite high spot? Share your experiences with us!