You won't regret buying one of the best cat hammocks. In fact, it's my favorite thing that I've ever got for my felines Chilli and Nala and I wish I'd introduced them to one sooner. They combine two things that cats can't get enough of: a cozy spot to sleep and a viewing platform to nose the neighborhood — and my pair are obsessed with their new perches.
You might be wondering if they're any different from the best cat beds, but the main thing is that hammocks are highly positioned. There are lots of different styles; some can be suctioned onto windows, others can be mounted on the wall, or, you can opt for free-standing styles.
Since hammocks are off the ground, they help your cat to feel safe and secure as they can observe any threats from up high, according to vet Dr. Hannah Godfrey. Below, I've rounded up the best cat hammocks which have been reviewed by the PetsRadar testing team and their kitties.
The quick list
The best free-standing cat hammock
This free-standing cat hammock is 8.3" off the floor and is made from sturdy bamboo. It comes with two removeable covers that are soft and comfortable, and can be easily washed.
The best cat hammock for windows
This hammock sticks to your window, giving your cat a purrfect view of the world below. The bed is soft, fleecy and super comfortable and the instructions are simple to follow.
The best cat hammock with scratching post
Featuring a hammock, a scratching post and a toy, your cat won't be able to resist this 3-in-1 design. The faux fur fabric is soft and cozy, and the price tag is ultra affordable.
The best cat hammock for radiators
This hammock sits on your radiator, giving your cat a warm and comfy place to snuggle down. It can also be attached to chairs, ledges, and doors, giving your feline a versatile resting spot.
The best hanging cat hammock
This stylish macramé hammock will look great in your home and is the perfect place for your cat to rest and retreat. It's made from cotton rope that's strong and durable.
The best wall-mounted cat hammock
This hammock is the ultimate lookout spot and can be attached as high as you want on the wall. It comes with high grip steps for your cat to climb and can support up to two pets.
The best cat hammocks we recommend in 2024
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Best free-standing cat hammock
This free-standing cat hammock is made from durable bamboo and is topped with a soft plush bed for comfort. It's raised 8.3" off the ground, helping your cat feel safe and secure when they settle down for some sleep. Since it's not too high up, this could be a better option for senior cats or cats with mobility issues who might struggle to jump far.
The hammock can hold up to 33lbs and has anti-slip pads on the bottom to keep it in place. It's easy to install and includes all the hardware you need to put it together. When you want to wash it, you can detach the cushion and put it in the machine, making it super easy to keep clean.
Our tester Amanda says: "The hammock is sturdy and the fabric pad is very soft. My cat is 13 pounds and it doesn't wobble or move when he gets inside. I liked that the fabric pad has ties to keep it in place. I can also easily wash or vacuum it as well.
"My cat Hampton loves it. It took him a couple of weeks but he now lays in it all the time. It was very simple to set up as all of the tools came in the box and the instructions were easy to follow."
Best cat hammock for windows
I was a little bit nervous about installing this hammock and felt worried it would collapse when my cats sat on it. However, I was pleasantly surprised at how strong it is and how easily it sucks onto the window (and other shiny surfaces). As soon as Nala got inside, she was purring constantly and I could tell she was very happy. She sits in it every day without fail and it's become her favorite place to sleep.
Nala loves snuggling up inside and digging her claws into the soft, fleecy bed. It's a lot smaller than the Zakkart Cat Window Perch, so it might be a better option if you haven't got big windows. You can also fold it away which makes it easy to store.
Since my cats have brown fur, the white color is a bit problematic, but thankfully, you can easily remove the bed to clean it. I vacuum it every week and it looks as good as new afterward (this is saying something because Nala malts like crazy and uses it every day).
Overall, I'm really impressed with this product and wish I got one sooner after seeing how happy it makes my cats!
Best cat hammock with scratching post
For under just $30, you'll get a hammock, scratching post and toy all in one. We're really impressed with how affordable this is, considering you get three functions for the price of one.
The scratching post is made from natural jute material which is great for keeping your kitty's claws in tip-top shape, and the hammock is super soft to sleep in. When your cat isn't sleeping or scratching, they can enjoy swiping at the pompom ball for playtime.
PetsRadar's Editor Georgia recommends this hammock after testing it out on her kitten Annie. She likes that it doesn't take up too much room in her home and that it tucks neatly away next to her sofa.
She says: "This hammock has become Annie's favorite place to sleep, I always find her having a nap in it. She also enjoys using the scratching posts, even though they're small. The hanging ball came off, but it's still worth it without the toy."
We also voted this as the best budget cat tree.
Best cat hammock for radiators
This hanging hammock can be secured onto radiators, doors, chairs, or any other place that your cat wants to rest. It's very straightforward to put together; simply put the fleece cover onto the metal wire and clip it onto your platform of choice.
The plush material is soft and cozy, giving your fur friend a comfortable place to sleep or observe their surroundings. Since the cover is removable, it's easy to clean when it gets dirty. It doesn't take up too much space either, thanks to the foldable design that can be stored away when it's not in use. It comes in two different colors (grey or beige), so you can find a style that suits your home.
Some reviews say that it's not the most supportive, so we'd recommend this for smaller cats if you plan on putting it up high.
We're in the process of testing this hammock, come back soon for our full review.
Best hanging cat hammock
You won't have to compromise on style with this hammock; the macramé design will look beautiful in your home. Whether you want to hang it inside or out in the garden, this bed is guaranteed to look great and won't take up any floor space.
The cushion inside is comfortable to sleep on and gives your cat a brilliant view of the world around them. The hammock is suitable for kittens to medium cats and can hold up to 18lbs.
It's worth bearing in mind that you'll need to put hooks onto your ceiling to install it, so if you're renting or don't want to do that, you're better off choosing the best cat hammock for windows.
We're in the process of testing this out; our full review is coming soon!
Best wall-mounted cat hammock
We highly recommend this wall-mounted hammock if you've got an indoor cat. Felines love to climb up high and this bed allows them to do that if they don't have access to a garden. It includes two high-grip steps (which are covered with thick woven jute rope) to help your cat reach the bed. This also promotes physical and mental stimulation.
Since the color is beige and cream, it blends in well with most walls and won't feel invasive in your home. The bed is made from 100% cotton canvas that's reversible and can be hand-washed after use.
However, if you're renting or can't drill holes into your walls, we suggest the best cat hammock for radiators instead which hooks onto ledges with ease.
Our tester Amanda says: "The hammock is really nice and made of real wood. It's great that the cloth part can be removed for easy cleaning. I like that it is a neutral color so it matches my room.
"My cat was hesitant at first, since he has never been on the side of a wall before, but he has slowly enjoyed jumping up and down. It's at eye level of my Peloton so when I am riding, he is able to be at the same height as me. He hasn’t yet laid down on it, he mostly just sits and stares at me while in it.
"This assembly requires someone with knowledge of using butterfly clips/wall mounts - it's not for beginners."
Other cat hammocks to consider
I also recommend Zakkart's Cat Window Perch which is pictured below. One downside is that it's a little bit bulky, so if you've got small windows, I recommend the Zakkart Foldable Cat Hammock for Windows instead. However, it's easy enough to mount and dismount if you've had enough of it on your window. As someone who hates reading instructions, I can vouch for this hammock being very simple to install. It took me around five minutes and you don't need to worry about screwing any nuts and bolts.
How we tested the best cat hammocks
To find the best cat hammocks, we spent hours researching various models on the market. We included a range of styles, from window perches to free standing trees, to help you find an option that's right for you and your cat. Once we'd filtered out our favorites, the PetsRadar testing team reviewed them based on:
Fit for purpose
If our cats don't like a product, we won't include it. Our fur friends have spent hours lounging on these hammocks to ensure they're good enough (it's a hard job but someone's got to do it!)
Set up
There are better ways to spend your time than reading boring instructions (like giving your cat lots of cuddles). That's why we ensured that the hammocks are easy to install so you don't waste precious time.
Value for money
We assessed whether the hammocks were good value for money based on the quality and how much our cat liked them.
Here's more information about how we test.
How to choose the best cat hammock
There are plenty of options when it comes to choosing the right cat hammock for your feline companion. While there are options to fit each budget, just because a hammock is pricier, doesn't automatically make it a better option for you or your cat. There are a few things to consider before snagging the first one that catches your eye.
Style
From stand-up options, to designs that hang off of windows with suction cups, to designs that are meant to be hooked into the ceiling, or wall, you have options. You'll want to ensure that the bed you've chosen can be safely set up in your home. In older homes or apartments, drilling into the walls may not be appropriate. Likewise, if you have a larger cat, then a suction cup option may be asking for trouble. Be sure to look over how the cat hammock is set up to find one that works for your home.
Size
Whether you have lived with the same cat for years, or you've just brought a new kitten home, size should absolutely be a consideration when choosing a hammock. You want something that can support the weight of your feline, as well as give them room to get comfortable. If you've got a kitten, you'll also want an option that your fur baby can grow into.
Materials
The last major thing to consider when choosing a cat hammock is the materials used to construct it. If your cat is a big chewer, then ceiling hanging options or macramé beds may not be the best option. Having a bed that is easy to clean is also handy, especially if you have a long-haired cat. Some options come with built-in toys like scratching posts, or catnip toys. This means you may want to investigate how sturdy the construction is, especially if you have a larger, or especially active feline.
Why do cats like sleeping in hammocks?
Why do cats love hammocks so much? Dr. Godfrey explains that they feel safer when they're off the ground.
She says: "Higher vantage points allow them to survey for threats, meaning they feel safer to relax and get comfy when they’re out of reach. Hammocks also make them feel enclosed as they sink into them, which isn’t just comfortable and cozy, it’s also reassuring.
"Cats also enjoy relaxing in hammocks because they’re often hung near radiators, which make them even more cozy and warm – be careful, though, it’s important to keep your cat safe from getting burnt."
Megan is Staff Writer at PetsRadar and is a cat mom of two tabbies, Chilli and Nala. She has a passion for pet happiness and enjoyed putting the best cat hammocks to the test. She has a degree in journalism from the University of Westminster and joined the PR team last year.
Hannah graduated from the Royal Veterinary College in 2011 and began work straight away at a busy mixed practice. Initially, she treated all species, but focused on small animals from 2014. She has a passion for soft tissue surgery, ultrasound, and canine and feline dentistry, having completed additional training in these areas.
