Last updated Jul 11, 2023
Cats have a natural desire to climb and survey their territory from on high. If you don’t have the floor space to accommodate a cat tree, a window seat might be the ideal solution. Window seats and perches also give your cat the opportunity to monitor outdoor goings-on while remaining safely inside.
For its hassle-free installation and sturdy yet lightweight frame, my top pick is the K&H Pet Products EZ Mount Cat Window Perch. But it isn’t the best option for every situation. In this round-up, you’ll find a collection of ten different window perches for cats of all ages, sizes, and preferences.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for the Best Cat Window Seats & Perches
K&H Pet Products EZ Mount Cat Window Perch
- Lightweight but sturdy metal frame
- Patented fold-up design
- Comes with a washable faux fleece cover
Kitty Cot Original World’s Best Cat Perch
- Heavy-duty PVC frame with nylon cover
- Roomy enough for bigger cats
- Easy to install with suction cups
Oster Sunny Seat Window-Mounted Cat Bed
- Lightweight with a reinforced plastic frame
- Industrial-strength suction cups hold up to 50 pounds
- Easy to attach directly to the window
K&H Pet Products EZ Mount Double Stack Window Hammock
- Sturdy option for large, heavy cats
- Doubles as a scratching post
- Wide base with suction cups for security
PetFusion Ultimate Cat Window Climbing Perch
- Sturdy option for large, heavy cats
- Doubles as a scratching post
- Wide base with suction cups for security
K&H Pet Products Deluxe Kitty Sill Cat Window Perch
- Thick padding with bolster for support
- No tools required for installation
- Supports up to 40 pounds of weight
Prevue Pet Products Tabby Napper Cat Window Hammock
- True hammock-like effect
- Fleecy cover is removable and machine washable
- Easy to install with no tools required
TRIXIE Lounger Wall Mounted Cat Shelves
- Includes hammock, condo, and two steps
- Good option for non-standard windows
- Wall-mounted design improves stability
Coziwow Kitty Window Perch
- Simple, minimalist appearance
- Easy Velcro installation – no tools required
- Comes with a thick pad for comfort
K&H Pet Products Thermo-Kitty Sill Cat Window Perch
- Includes a thermostatically controlled heating pad
- Orthopedic foam pillow with faux fleece cover
- Easy to assemble with no tools required
Why Trust Cats.com
Before making my selections, I researched the market for cat window perches to learn about the different styles available. I read expert advice and customer reviews to narrow down the options and categorize them according to specific uses. I also personally purchased and tested several of the products on this list.
The Best Cat Window Seats & Perches: Our Top 10 Picks
#1 Overall Best: K&H Pet Products EZ Mount Cat Window Perch
This cat window perch is specifically designed for easy installation. Like many others on this list, it utilizes a suction cup mounting system but what makes it unique is the patented fold-up design. This enables you to close the blinds or curtains without removing the perch.
This window perch measures 23 inches wide by 12 inches deep. A metal frame provides structure and stability, enabling the perch to hold up to 50 pounds. It also comes with a removable faux fleece cover for improved comfort.
Customers seem pleased with this window perch’s strength and stability. Cats seem to enjoy the fuzzy cover and cat owners appreciate the ease of installation. K&H Pet Products recommends soaking the suction cups in boiled water before installation to ensure a strong hold.
What We Liked:
- Easy-mount suction cup system
- Lightweight but sturdy metal frame
- Patented fold-up design
- Comes with a washable faux fleece cover
What We Didn’t Like:
- May be difficult to remove after installation
#2 Runner Up: Kitty Cot Original World’s Best Cat Perch
Similar in design to the previous pick, the Kitty Cot is more expensive, but it seems to be more durable as well. It features a heavy-duty PVC frame and tough nylon fabric that holds up well under sharp claws.
The Kitty Cot measures 25.5 inches wide and 14 inches deep, making it roomy enough for large cats or even for two smaller cats to share. It’s designed to hold up to 25 pounds.
Customers report that the Kitty Cot is very easy to install using the suction cup system. Some users found the suction cups were a little loose in the PVC frame or that they didn’t stick to the window well. Soaking the suction cups in warm water before use may help them stick.
What We Liked:
- Heavy-duty PVC frame with nylon cover
- Roomy enough for bigger cats
- Easy to install with suction cups
What We Didn’t Like:
- Suction cups may fit loosely in the frame
#3 Budget Pick: Oster Sunny Seat Window-Mounted Cat Bed
The Oster Sunny Seat features a simple but effective design that attaches directly to your window using suction cups. With its reinforced plastic frame, the Sunny Seat is lightweight but durable. It comes with a removable and machine-washable polyester cover you can use as-is or top with your cat’s favorite bed or blanket.
This window-mounted cat bed measures 22 inches wide by 12 inches deep. Industrial-strength suction cups enable it to hold up to 50 pounds, making it a sturdy choice for larger cats. They also make the product quick and easy to install.
I’ve been using the Oster Sunny Seat for several years – it’s my cat Munchkin’s preferred spot in my office. I find that the suction cups come loose from the window after a few months but they’re easy to reattach.
What We Liked:
- Lightweight with a reinforced plastic frame
- Industrial-strength suction cups hold up to 50 pounds
- Easy to attach directly to the window
What We Didn’t Like:
- Cover may sag under the weight of heavier cats
- Doesn’t come with a pad
#4 Best Multi-Level: K&H Pet Products EZ Mount Double Stack Window Hammock
If you have cats who compete for their spot in the sun, a double-decker window perch could be the solution. This easy-mount option from K&H Pet Products is designed to accommodate two small cats at once for a combined weight up to 50 pounds.
Constructed with metal frames for durability, these window perches measure 23 inches wide by 12 inches deep. Each level has a faux fur cover for comfort that can easily be removed and washed as needed.
Like other window perches on this list, this model utilizes a heavy-duty suction cup mounting system. For convenience, it can be folded up when you want to close the blinds, so you don’t have to remove it completely.
What We Liked:
- Two levels to accommodate multiple cats
- Easy suction cup mounting system
- Holds up to 50 pounds of weight
What We Didn’t Like:
- Opening limits the space on the top level
#5 Best for Large Cats: PetFusion Ultimate Cat Window Climbing Perch
Bigger cats may test the ability of suction-mounted window perches to hold their weight. A traditional perch with a wide base offers greater stability while still giving your cat a great view of the outdoors. The PetFusion Ultimate window climbing perch is designed specifically to be placed next to a window. A 1-inch thick base provides support while heavy-duty suction cups secure the perch to the window.
With sisal-wrapped posts, this window perch doubles as a cat scratcher. It comes with three separate sections you screw together, so there is some degree of customizability for different window heights. It also comes with a removable washable pad.
I’ve been using this window perch for several months now and my cats really seem to enjoy it. The pad is nice and thick and attaches to the perch with Velcro to keep it in place.
What We Liked:
- Sturdy option for large, heavy cats
- Doubles as a scratching post
- Wide base with suction cups for security
- Comes with a removable washable pad
What We Didn’t Like:
- Limited adjustability for different window heights
- Pricier than standard window-mounted perches
#6 Most Comfortable: K&H Pet Products Deluxe Kitty Sill Cat Window Perch
With thick padding and a bolster for support, the Deluxe Kitty Sill offers a comfortable alternative to hammock-style window perches. It features a wooden frame that can be installed without tools – it simply requires a 2-inch window sill for support. Hook-and-loop fasteners help keep it from moving, though it also comes with screws if you prefer a more permanent installation.
This window perch is designed to hold cats weighing up to 40 pounds. It measures 24 inches wide and 14 inches deep. Choose from two different patterned prints.
What We Liked:
- Thick padding with bolster for support
- No tools required for installation
- Supports up to 40 pounds of weight
What We Didn’t Like:
- Requires a 2-inch window sill
- Hook-and-loop fastener may leave residue on window frame
#7 Best Hammock: Prevue Pet Products Tabby Napper Cat Window Hammock
Some cats enjoy the comfort of sinking into a hammock-style bed. The Tabby Napper from Prevue Pet Products features a unique design that allows for more flexibility than the standard suction cup-mounted system. It utilizes metal feet that hook over the window frame with an added support that sits against the wall.
This window perch fits both double hung and casement windows and can be installed without any special tools. It features a fleecy cover that is removable and machine washable. The frame is designed to support cats weighing up to 35 pounds, though customers have noted that the cover material may stretch over time with use by heavy cats.
What We Liked:
- True hammock-like effect
- Fleecy cover is removable and machine washable
- Easy to install with no tools required
What We Didn’t Like:
- Frame may not work well with all windows
- Cover material may stretch over time
#8 Best Wall-Mounted: TRIXIE Lounger Wall Mounted Cat Shelves
If you have non-standard windows, a suction-mounted window perch may be too large. A wall-mounted alternative like the TRIXIE Lounger enables you to position the perch just right. It also offers a stable alternative for large and heavy cats. Each piece mounts separately with included hardware, though you’ll need a drill for installation.
This set of wall-mounted shelves comes with a hammock, a plush-lined condo, and two steps. If you have an older cat, the steps help make the bed more accessible. Simply mount the hammock directly under the window and the steps at comfortable intervals below. The steps are sisal-wrapped to ensure a secure grip.
What We Liked:
- Includes hammock, condo, and two steps
- Good option for non-standard windows
- Wall-mounted design improves stability
- Steps for easy access by older cats
What We Didn’t Like:
- Tools required for installation
- Requires permanent installation
#9 Best Minimalist: Coziwow Kitty Window Perch
If you’re looking for a cat window perch that won’t distract from your home’s decor, this option from Coziwow has a minimalist feel to it. A pair of simple metal brackets supports an MDF shelf topped with a 2-inch pad. To install, you attach a Velcro strip to the window sill and the underside of the shelf. The shelf is designed to hold cats weighing up to 22 pounds.
What We Liked:
- Simple, minimalist appearance
- Easy Velcro installation – no tools required
- Comes with a thick pad for comfort
What We Didn’t Like:
- Requires a window sill for installation
- Velcro strip may leave residue on the sill
- Recommended only for small cats
#10 Best Heated: K&H Pet Products Thermo-Kitty Sill Cat Window Perch
Sleeping next to the window may make for chilly conditions in the winter but the Thermo-Kitty Sill features a built-in heater to keep your cat warm. The heater is integrated into an orthopedic foam pillow that comes with a removable, washable faux fleece cover. Because the heating pad is thermostatic, it only activates when your cat is in the bed and warms it to just a few degrees above your cat’s body temperature.
This cat window perch requires a 2-inch-deep window sill for installation. Though you can use the included screws for more permanent installation, it only requires the use of a Velcro strip. The sill is designed to support up to 40 pounds of weight.
What We Liked:
- Includes a thermostatically controlled heating pad
- Orthopedic foam pillow with faux fleece cover
- Easy to assemble with no tools required
What We Didn’t Like:
- Needs to be placed within reach of an outlet
- Requires a 24-inch long, 2-inch deep window sill
- Velcro strip may leave residue on the window sill
What to Consider When Shopping for a Cat Window Perch
Setting up a window perch for your cat enables them to watch local wildlife from a safe distance and enjoy napping in the warmth of the sun. Many cat window perches feature a similar design, but there are a few factors that might make one model a better choice than another.
The best cat window seats and perches are easy to install and appropriately sized for both your window and your cat. Here are a few features to consider.
Mounting
Many cat window perches are designed with a rectangular frame that mounts directly to the window using suction cups. The suction cups should be at least 3 inches in diameter to ensure adherence. This type of perch is generally quick to install and easy to remove or reposition as needed.
Other window perches mount to the window sill using a strip of Velcro. One side of the strip is installed on the sill and the other on the underside of the perch. These models also typically include brackets to keep the perch level. The brackets can be permanently attached to the wall using screws for extra stability.
Size
Window perches for cats are typically rectangular or oval in shape and they come in various sizes. Choose a size appropriate for your cat but, more importantly, look at the weight limit of the product. Cat perches are generally rated for at least 20 pounds of weight but some hold up to 50 pounds.
Comfort
Suction cup-mounted window perches typically consist of a fabric-covered frame while Velcro-mounted perches are more shelf-like. The perch should be large enough for your cat to stretch out or curl up comfortably. Some perches come with extra padding or a removable mat to create a cozy sleeping surface.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do cats like window perches?
Every cat is different but many cats like having a view of the outside world. Window perches can be particularly beneficial for indoor cats prone to stress or boredom – they provide an opportunity for mental stimulation.
Are cat window perches and hammocks safe?
When properly installed, cat window perches are generally safe. Be sure to follow the mounting instructions carefully and make sure your cat doesn’t exceed the weight limit for the perch. For suction cup-mounted perches, soaking the suction cups in boiling water prior to use may improve adherence.
How do I get my cat to use a window perch?
Some cats will figure out how to use a window perch on their own out of curiosity. If your cat needs a little encouragement, try sprinkling some catnip on the perch or lure your cat into it using their favorite treats.
I was wondering if any of these could work on a glass double door?
Any window perch designed for glass windows should! Just make sure that it’s smooth glass without any panels that may get in the way of the bed, and make sure you can open the door properly with it on.
Thank you. I’m going to be adopting two kittens in a month, and I wanted to give them a way to reach the other side of my room without using the floor. The window perches should make it easier.