Why Are Cat Trees So Expensive in Canada?

Article published at: Aug 11, 2025 Article author: Catherine Ma
Why Are Cat Trees So Expensive in Canada?
All General and Cat Health

If you’ve been shopping for a new cat tree in Canada lately, you might have been shocked by the price tags. Large cat towers often sell for hundreds of dollars, even when they look fairly simple. So why are cat trees in Canada so expensive—and what can you do to find a better deal?


1. Shipping & Import Costs

Canada’s vast size and smaller population mean higher shipping costs for large, heavy products like cat trees. Oversized packaging is expensive to transport, especially across provinces.

If a cat tree is imported from the U.S. or overseas, costs rise even further due to:

  • International freight charges

  • Customs duties and tariffs

  • Currency exchange rates when buying from non-Canadian suppliers


2. Quality Materials & Safety Standards

A good cat tree isn’t just a stack of platforms—it’s built to be safe, stable, and durable. That means using:

  • Strong wood or engineered wood for structure

  • Thick, natural sisal rope for scratching posts

  • Non-toxic plush fabric for comfort

These materials cost more but ensure the product lasts for years without wobbling or falling apart.


3. Retail Markup

When you buy from large chain pet stores, you’re paying for more than just the item—you’re covering:

  • Store rent and overhead

  • Marketing campaigns

  • Distribution costs

  • Staff wages

This markup can easily add 30–50% (or more) to the price.


4. Limited Domestic Manufacturing

Most cat trees in Canada are imported in smaller quantities than in larger markets like the U.S., which reduces competition and keeps prices high.


5. Pandemic Supply Chain Impact

Although the worst supply chain delays have passed, costs for raw materials and freight remain elevated. Inflation and shortages have also played a role in keeping pet furniture prices higher than before.

Cats Wearing Face Mask Stock Photos - Free & Royalty-Free Stock Photos from  Dreamstime


How Catopia Co. Offers Affordable Alternatives

At Catopia Co., we know that cat owners want quality furniture without paying inflated prices. As a Canadian local business with a warehouse located in Toronto, we keep costs lower by:

  • Domestic warehousing – No high cross-border shipping fees for Canadian customers

  • Direct-to-customer model – We sell online without middlemen, so you get fair pricing

  • Smart product selection – We stock designs that balance stability, style, and affordability

  • Canadian customer service – Quick, local support for returns, replacements, or advice


Affordable Cat Tree Options from Catopia Co.

If you’re looking for budget-friendly cat trees and scratchers in Canada without compromising quality, here are some of our best-value picks:

  1. Catopia Co. 93cm Multi-Level Flower Blue And Pink Cat Tree - On sale now for just $75!

    Modern Multi-Level Flower Cat Tree – Charming & Functional Cat Furniture for Canadian Homes

    Bring a splash of color and comfort to your home with the Catopia Co. 36.6" (93 cm) Multi-Level Flower Cat Tree. This adorable, modern cat condo is thoughtfully designed for small cats and kittens, blending style and function in one compact footprint. The flower-shaped top and cheerful colors make it a standout piece of stylish cat furniture Canada.

    Compact yet sturdy, perfect for apartments.

  2. Catopia Co.'s Signature Floor to Ceiling Cactus Cat Tree - $135

    Space-Saving Modern Cat Tower – Fun & Functional Design for Canadian Homes

    Upgrade your living space with the Catopia Co. Adjustable Floor-to-Ceiling Cactus Cat Tree, thoughtfully designed for modern Canadian households. This innovative cat tower adjusts to fit ceilings from 75 inches to 100.4 inches (191–255 cm), making it a smart, space-saving solution for both small apartments and large rooms. Great for active cats, with multiple platforms and scratching posts. 

Catopia Co. Canada Floor to Celling Cat tree with multiple levels and a cat sitting on each level in a room. Perfect for hyper cats like orange cats or bengal cats

  1. Catopia Co's 108cm Medium Sky-Castle Wooden Cat Tower - $110

Modern Luxury Cat Tower – Stylish & Secure Cat Furniture for Canadian Homes

Treat your cats to the Catopia Co. Sky City Wooden Cat Tree, a modern luxury cat tower designed for comfort, safety, and style. Crafted from solid wood and pure natural sisal rope, this 42.5 inch (108 cm) cat tree offers the perfect playground for cats of all breeds and ages. Stylish design with plush beds, ideal for multi-cat homes.

Catopia Co. Canada cat tree.  Cat tree with stability increase features in a room setting



The Bottom Line

Cat trees cost more in Canada due to shipping, import fees, quality materials, and retail markups. But with the right retailer, you don’t have to overpay.

By choosing Catopia Co., you’re buying from a Canadian local business with a Toronto-based warehouse that ships only within Canada, ensuring fair pricing, fast delivery, and support for the Canadian economy—all while giving your cat a safe and stylish place to play.


💡 Tip: Sign up for Catopia Co.’s newsletter to get early access to sales and exclusive deals on modern cat furniture. Sign up now and get 10$ off your first purchase!


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