What to Do With an Old Cat Tower: Reuse or Dispose

Before you reuse or give away an old cat tower, press on its base, gently move each level, and look for loose joints, exposed staples, sharp edges, or posts that no longer support your cat’s weight. If the structure wobbles or has damaged parts you cannot secure, keep your cat off it and plan to dismantle it rather than pass a safety problem to another home.

A sturdy tower may only need a thorough cleaning: vacuum fur from the perches and seams, wipe hard surfaces with a pet-safe cleaner, and let everything dry fully before your cat uses it again. If a scratching post is worn but firmly attached, you may be able to rewrap it with suitable sisal rope; make sure the ends are secured without leaving fasteners where paws can catch.

If your cat has outgrown the tower but it remains clean and stable, ask a local rescue, shelter, or neighbor whether they accept used cat furniture, since donation policies vary. You can also keep a sound lower section as a scratching spot, provided removing upper pieces does not make the base unstable or leave exposed hardware.

When you bring in a replacement, place it somewhere your cat already likes to rest or watch the room, and allow time to explore it without being placed on an unfamiliar perch. Our 68-Inch Multi-Level Cat Tree Tower for Large Cats with Scratching Posts & Plush Perches is one option to consider; our team recommends measuring your available floor and vertical space and watching how your cat uses climbing levels before retiring a familiar tower.