kissakko

Kissakko is a Finnish term that translates to "cat apartment" or "cat condominium." It refers to a multi-story structure designed specifically for cats to climb, perch, and play on. These structures are often found in homes with multiple cats, providing them with vertical space and individual resting spots. Kissakko can vary greatly in size and complexity, from simple platforms attached to walls to elaborate, free-standing towers with scratching posts, tunnels, and enclosed nooks. The primary purpose of a kissakko is to satisfy a cat's natural instinct to climb and observe their surroundings from a height, which can help reduce stress and behavioral issues, especially in indoor environments. They also serve to delineate territory and provide separate spaces for cats to retreat to, which is beneficial in multi-cat households. The materials used in their construction typically include wood, carpet, sisal rope for scratching, and sometimes plush fabrics for comfort.