While cats can potentially use a used cat tree, the presence of a previous cat's scent is a major factor influencing whether they will and how they might react.
Bringing a secondhand cat tree into your home introduces not just a physical object, but also the scent markers left behind by the feline who previously used it. Cats rely heavily on their sense of smell, and these scent residues can be a significant factor in their acceptance of the item.
The Scent Factor
As noted in various resources, the smell of a previous feline tenant can throw your cat off balance. This is because cats are territorial animals and use scent to mark their environment and identify safe spaces. The presence of another cat's scent on something intended for their use can signal that the area is already claimed or is unfamiliar and potentially threatening.
Potential Reactions to a Used Cat Tree
When confronted with a used cat tree carrying the scent of another cat, your feline friend might exhibit several reactions:
- Avoidance: They might simply steer clear of the tree altogether, preferring to use other scratching posts or climbing spots that don't carry the foreign scent.
- Hesitation: They might approach cautiously, sniffing extensively, but remain reluctant to fully engage with the tree.
- Marking: A natural reaction for cats under these circumstances is to mark the specific area with their own urine. This is an attempt to cover the previous cat's scent with their own, establishing their territory. This would obviously not be ideal for you or your home environment.
- Aggression (less common): In multi-cat households or for particularly territorial cats, the foreign scent could potentially trigger anxiety or mild aggression directed towards the tree or even other pets.
- Acceptance: Some cats, particularly those who are less territorial or more laid-back, might eventually accept and use the tree, especially if the scent is faint or mitigated.
Increasing the Likelihood of Acceptance
Fortunately, there are steps you can take to make a used cat tree more appealing and reduce the negative impact of the previous occupant's scent:
- Thorough Cleaning: This is the most crucial step. Clean the cat tree thoroughly using an enzymatic cleaner specifically designed to break down pet odors and stains. Pay close attention to popular scratching and lounging spots. Avoid using ammonia-based cleaners, as the smell is similar to urine and can encourage marking.
- Air It Out: Leave the tree outdoors or in a well-ventilated area for several days to allow residual odors to dissipate.
- Introduce Your Cat's Scent: Once clean, you can rub soft cloths or blankets that your cat uses on the tree to transfer their scent onto it. You can also use feline pheromone sprays, which mimic natural calming cat scents and can help your cat feel more secure about the new item.
- Place in a Favorable Location: Put the tree in a spot your cat already feels comfortable in, ideally near a window or in a common area where they like to spend time.
- Add Incentives: Encourage interaction by placing treats, toys, or catnip on the tree.
By addressing the scent issue head-on through cleaning and re-scenting, you significantly increase the chances that your cat will feel comfortable and begin to use a secondhand cat tree as intended. While the smell of the previous feline friend can certainly throw your cat off balance, proactive steps can often overcome this hurdle.
