The Window Seat That Survived Stevie (and His Little Plus-One)
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Stevie has multiple windowsill seats. Multiple. He is a cat of means. And he has put on a little extra weight lately. We don't talk about it. He's big-boned. 🤣
I've spent decades in the pet industry caring for the well-being of just about every species, from reptiles and birds to small companion animals. Now I'm a spiritual introvert with a pack of rescue dogs, one high-maintenance Maltese, and one cat. Out of every window seat in this house, this one is my favorite.
Stevie's pick
Zakkart Cat Perch for Windowsill with Bolsters on Amazon
It has a hardwood base and a metal frame, and it hooks onto the windowsill. No drilling. No suction cups. No marks on the wall. It's sturdy, and it holds my growing boy really well. The listing says it's rated up to 40 pounds, and the bed comes off for washing.
And every morning, while I make breakfast, my Chihuahua hops up there with him. The two of them sit side by side looking out the window like a tiny neighborhood watch. I. LOVE. THIS. 💝
The honest part: it doesn't fit every window. It needs a slot at least half an inch deep for the hook, and the slot has to be at least 22.5 inches wide for the Large. Some reviewers found out the hard way that their sill got in the way. A few said the directions were a little weird. And if you're sharing it like we do, keep the total weight under that 40-pound limit.
Big cats
Got a Maine Coon or a big floof? This same perch comes in an XL, 26.4 inches long, with the same 40-pound rating. Just pick the bigger size on the same page. It needs a slot at least 25.5 inches wide.
Real facts, no fluff
- Cats are both predators and prey, so they climb to watch and to feel safe. Window perches for wildlife watching are a recommended enrichment for indoor cats. (Herron & Buffington, Environmental Enrichment for Indoor Cats)
- AAFP/ISFM guidelines say elevated spots give cats vertical space and let them monitor their surroundings. (AAFP/ISFM Environmental Needs Guidelines)
Vet note: I'm not a vet, and this isn't vet advice. If your cat suddenly stops jumping up to his favorite spots, check with your vet.