Research overview: vertical structure, complexity and three-dimensional space in felid enclosures

Cats are arboreal-capable, climbing predators that value height, and research consistently shows captive felids prefer and benefit from elevated resting platforms, climbing structures and visually complex, three-dimensional space. This overview surveys evidence that vertical complexity and usable elevation improve enclosure use, allow cats to survey their surroundings, escape conspecifics or visitors, and perform natural climbing and perching, while raw floor area matters less than the quality and arrangement of space. It covers how visual barriers, planting and varied substrates increase behavioural options and reduce stress, and how complexity interacts with group housing. The synthesis argues that enrichment of the vertical dimension is central to humane felid enclosure design.