How many resting places do two cats need?

Compare the number of resting spots your cats can use independently, not simply the number of platforms printed in a listing. A small step, narrow shelf or access ledge is not necessarily somewhere a large cat can sleep. For each genuine resting area, note its usable width and depth, edge shape, access route and stated capacity. Consider whether another sleeping cat would block the way to it.

A tower with three closely stacked beds might offer less practical choice than two well-separated beds and a nearby floor-level hideaway. Also account for different preferences: one cat may stretch out while another prefers an enclosed space. Start with enough appealing places that nobody must displace a housemate to settle. Observe which spots remain unused and why before buying more; poor placement or difficult access can matter as much as the number available.

For example, count a tower with two genuinely usable beds as two resting surfaces, not six because it has six levels. Then ask whether a cat occupying the middle bed cuts off access to the top one.