How To Build A Cat Tower

Build a Cat Tree With These Free Plans

If you’re a cat owner, or know someone who is, you’ll want to have a look at this collection of free DIY cat tree ideas so you can create a safe and fun play area for your furry friend. Photos, diagrams, and step-by-step building instructions are included in these free cat tree designs, allowing you to create a cat tree that is both functional and attractive for your cat while also taking advantage of the available space in your home. The ideas include not only the typical cat tree, but also a cat condo, a cat home, and a straightforward stand.

For those who appreciate these free designs, you might also be interested in plans that will assist you in building a dog home or an arabbit hutch.

DIY Cat Tree With Real Branches

• Brittany Goldwyn contributed to this article. Brittany Goldwyn has created a DIY cat tree that is more than just a source of entertainment for your cat
• It also appears to be a piece of natural art that can be displayed anywhere in your house. You can make this cat tower with of real tree branches, plywood, boulders, rope, and false flora to give your indoor cat the best view possible. An inventory of materials, construction instructions, and color photographs are provided for this first-time woodworking project. DIY Cat Tree Made From Real Branches (with Instructions) Brittany Goldwyn contributed to this article.

How to Build a Cat Tree

• Brittany Goldwyn contributed to this report. It is developed by Brittany Goldwyn and is more than simply a source of entertainment for your cat
• It also appears to be a piece of natural art that can be displayed anyplace in your home. Your indoor kitten will like their new cat tower, which is made from genuine tree branches, plywood, stones, rope, and false foliage. An inventory of materials, construction instructions, and color photographs are provided for this first-time woodworking undertaking. DIY Cat Tree Made From Real Branches (with Instructions)from Brittany Goldwyn contributed to this report.

Cat Tower Plan

• Imgur Located on Imgur, this free cat tower plan is 6 feet tall and features two platforms – one at the top and another a few feet from the base – as well as an empty, carpeted interior for the cat to walk about in. This plan includes multiple illustrations as well as detailed instructions on how to construct the entire structure. Plan for a Cat Tower via Imgur

How to Make a Cat Tree

• WikiHow This is yet another cat tree that should be rather straightforward to construct. It is composed of five platforms that are supported by four supporting beams. The second half of this wikiHow article demonstrates how to construct an alternative cat tree by repurposing an old wooden ladder. How to Make a Cat Tree (with Pictures) from WikiHow 5th of 8th paragraphs are below
• Continue reading.

Kitty Tree

• Ana White is a woman who lives in the United States. This free cat tree plan describes how to construct three platforms with ramps to allow cats to visit each tier. The cost to construct this is expected to be between $20 and $50, and it should be simple enough to assemble even for novices. Throughout this tutorial, you’ll find 10 phases to complete, along with helpful resources like as a tools and shopping list and numerous real-life photos to refer to as you progress through them. There is also a PDF version of this plan available for download. Kitty Tree, created by Ana White

Kitty Condo Plan

• Dadanddadand.com provides a one-page PDF file that acts as a guide for constructing a cat condo, similar to the one seen in this photo, which you can get here. This cat condo is made out of four platforms and three support beams, which includes the bottom component of the structure. The entire endeavor is expected to cost roughly $25 and take approximately two hours to complete. Kitty Condo Design by Dad and Son

How to Make a Cat Condo from HGTV

• On DadandDadand.com, you may get a one-page PDF file that can be used as a guide for constructing a cat condo, similar to the one seen in this photo. This cat condo is made up of four platforms and three support beams, which includes the bottom section of the construction. Estimates indicate that the entire project will cost roughly $25 and will take approximately two hours. Dad and Kitty’s Condo Design

Building a Cat Tree

• Image courtesy of Ryo Shinyashiki / EyeEm / Getty Images The free cat tree layout provided by ShowCatsOnline.com appears to have it all. It consists of a top platform, a little residence, a bed, and a tube, all of which are fully carpeted to match the rest of the set. The plan outlines everything you’ll need to put this together, including a list of supplies, a list of all the basic tools you’ll need, and a breakdown of the 15 steps. Creating a Cat Tree with the help of Show Cats Online

15 DIY Cat Trees – How To Build A Cat Tower

When it comes to creating the crafts that we’ll be giving away, we’ll be the first to say that we’re just as likely to be found creating things for our dogs as we are to be found creating things for our family and friends. After all, pets are considered members of the family! There’s something very rewarding about producing things for our children rather than purchasing them from retailers. So when we decided it was time for our cats to have a new cat tree, we were adamant about building it ourselves.

What about the notion of constructing your very own DIY cat tree has you as excited as we were, if not more so?

Take a look at these 15 fantastic ideas, concepts, and instructions that we’ve discovered so far in our hunt for inspiration!

1. The ultimate DY cat tree

What do you want out of your cat tree if you’re going to put in the time and effort to build it yourself? Do you want it to be the most perfect item you can possibly construct so that your cat may have a variety of levels and parts to play with? Check out how Eamon Walsh created this amazing sculpture, complete with ramps, platforms for sleeping, and blocks for concealment by following his instructions. They also provide suggestions for how to personalize the artwork a bit further.

2. Simple two-platform sisal rope cat tree

You’re a beginner in the realm of DIY and handicraft, and this is your first time really building a standing item of any type, so you’ll need a little guidance and a straightforward design. To keep things manageable, we’re very confident that this guide from Instructableswill provide you with just the type of tutorial and design you’re looking for.

3. Cat condo from stacked IKEA tables

Having reservations about starting from scratch, do you find yourself thinking if there isn’t a pre-existing design that you can modify and enhance in order to create an amazing tower rather than starting from the ground up?

Afterwards, perhaps it’s time to repurpose some furniture. In this guide from IKEA Hackers, you’ll learn how to build a multi-level cat tree out of some basic IKEA tables, which we think is brilliant.

4. DIY Star Trek themed cat tree

Are you genuinely fairly handy and self-assured enough to take on a small task when the opportunity presents itself? You could be the perfect person to give this fantastic cat tree in the style of the Starship Enterprise a shot, if you’re also a huge fan of Star Trek. On Instructables, you can get all of the information you need to make it happen.

5. Cut and wall mounted stool cat tree

Having strong feelings about building a climbing tree for your cats, but not having enough floor space to accommodate some of the freestanding designs you’ve seen thus far? If so, we have several suggestions for you. If that’s the case, we’re confident that our space-saving wall-mounted cat tree will be a better fit for you. This video from IKEA Hackers shows you how to construct it in a way that genuinely appears like a little tree ascending the wall, complete with platforms for your cats to perch on where the branches would have bundles of leaves on them.

6. Multi-level cat tree with fabric and jute rope

You like the concept of a cat tree that looks like a tree and even sits right next to the wall, but you’re concerned that your cat would use it as a scratching post, so you’d prefer to use something other than wood. So we’d advise having a look at howInstructablesmade this 3D tree and wrapping the entire thing with fabric and jute rope so your cat has something truly enjoyable to claw at.

7. Carpet covered cat tree with a hammock

You’re divided between making the perfect cat period with all kinds of platforms and making something really fantastic for your cat to scratch on, but you can’t decide which one to go with? Do you have difficulties deciding between the two? After all, who said you had to choose a choice? As an alternative, consider building something like this carpet-covered cat tree, which has many platforms and even a hammock! Pickle Perfectprovides you with all of the information you’ll need to make it happen.

8. Wrapped pole and basket cat tree

Are you gung-ho about building a fantastic cat tree for your feline companions, but you’ve discovered that kitties prefer to sit in things rather than sit on them? Then perhaps this alternate tree concept from HGTVwould be more to your liking! They teach you not only how to build the tree itself, but also how to connect strategically positioned baskets to the tree so that your cat has a variety of nice spots to snuggle up in during the day.

9. Tall cat tree with a cat house

Is your cat the type of small animal who enjoys being up high where they can see everything going on in the room, such as the top of a cabinet or the area above the refrigerator, and keeping an eye on everyone? Then perhaps something like this wonderful extra tall cat tree with a small cat home at the very top, which is great for keeping an eye on things, might be a better option. ‘Instructablesnprovides a comprehensive roadmap for you to follow.’

10. Varied carpet cat tree

Are you just unsure that you have the space to construct some of the larger, taller designs you’ve seen so far, but you’re still interested by the notion of creating something that appears to be a little tree for the sake of amusement?

If that’s the case, we think you’ll have greater luck with this small tree design from Instructables, which is covered in different colors and textures of carpet, making it a fantastic scratching post for your children.

11. Zen garden cat tree

Maybe your living space is too small to accommodate some of the larger, taller ideas you’ve seen so far, but you’re interested by the notion of creating something that genuinely resembles a little tree for the sake of experimentation? If that’s the case, we think you’ll have greater luck with this small tree design from Instructables, which is covered in different colors and textures of carpet, making it a fantastic scratching post for the kids.

12. Three-level carpeted at tree with a bed on top

As a novice in the big scheme of things when it comes to making objects that will be free standing, are you still searching for a design that is quite simple and aren’t feeling particularly committed to anything in particular at this time? That being the case, we believe you’ll do just fine following an efficient, straightforward instruction like the one provided by DIY Network!

13. DIY cat tree with a water shelf

Is it true that your cat like being high up to the point that you can’t even persuade them to come down from their present run-down cat tree unless they’re being fed? We figure that since you’re going to be creating them a new one anyway, you may as well enjoy the process while you’re doing it. Medium created a basic cat tree that is already a fantastic design in and of itself, but it also includes a little water bowl to ensure that any kitty who loves to be up high receives enough of fluids.

14. DIY cat play tower made from actual trees

Is the thought of creating a cat tree out of genuine wooden tree branches the most intriguing item we’ve shown to you so far, but you’re not sure whether or not the rocky zen garden design we showed you before is truly the route you want to take things? Perhaps you’d be better served by taking a look at this alternate instruction from Southern Revivals instead.

15. Small, low cat tree

Have you reached the conclusion of our list feeling just as motivated as ever to create your own DIY cat tree, but you’ve already realized that, due to the fact that you live in a small flat, you’ll have to design one that’s far smaller than most of the options on our list up to this point? Don’t be concerned, because this does not always imply that you are out of luck! Visit Ellie Jay’s website to learn how to construct a smaller, shorter cat tree that your feline companion will still like. Does anybody else know of a DIY enthusiast who has been gung-ho about the prospect of building their very own cat tree, but who still feels like they could use a little bit of direction in getting started?

How to Make a DIY Cat Tower

Cat owners are well aware of how much their feline companions enjoy climbing, hiding, and scratching. That is what distinguishes a cat tower as the ideal household ornament. The moment has come to build a cat tower for your favorite cat to climb and play on if he or she is scratching the sofa, climbing the drapes, or lounging about in the laundry basket. As long as your cat’s tower is comprised of only the most fundamental elements—height, scratching surface, and a comfortable area to lounge—it will suffice for now.

Your tower may be as ornate as you want it to be, with various platforms, pillars, and lounging areas to accommodate your guests. Cat tower ideas are only limited by your ability to use your creativity to create them.

How to Make a Cat Tree at Home

Some of the rooms are intentionally built at window height to allow for feline sunbathing and touring. Others extend all the way to the ceiling, providing Tabby with penthouse-level views of his or her own territory.

• Whatever place you pick, make certain that the construction will fit
• You don’t want to spend time and money creating something just to discover that it is too large for the available area. Once you’ve decided where you want it to go, you can begin creating it.

2. Design your cat tower

Whatever place you pick, be sure the construction will fit in the available area; you don’t want to spend time and money on something just to discover that it is too large for the available space later on. Begin designing when you’ve decided where it’s going to go.

3. Create the base

• Make a base that is at least 24 inches in square measurement. You want it to be massive and heavy enough to prevent the tower from toppling over, thus the size of the base will be determined by the overall design of the tower. If you were unable to acquire thick enough wood, you may glue two pieces together to make it stronger.

4. Cut the pieces

• Construct a square foundation that is at least 24 inches in size. As the size of the base will be determined by your overall design, you want it to be massive and heavy enough to prevent the tower from tumbling over. You may glue two pieces of wood together to make a thicker piece if you couldn’t secure enough wood.

5. The dry run

• Install tiny nails or screws to temporarily build the tower to ensure that you have a design you like and that it is sturdy before continuing.

6. Attach the posts to the base

• If you’re using wood, make sure to fasten it with screws that are driven up from the base. If you’re using PVC, cut a circle out of a thick piece of wood that’s slightly smaller in diameter than the interior diameter of the pipe
• Otherwise, use a thin piece of wood. Screw the circular to the base of the structure where your pillar will be located, and then slide the pipe over it. Using a pair of self-tapping machine or wood screws, fasten the piece in place.

7. Attach all the platforms in the same manner

• If you want to incorporate a hammock, stitch a length of sisal rope to each corner of your cloth and attach it to cup hooks screwed into the poles
• Otherwise, skip this step. As soon as you’re through with the dry run, take everything apart. It is more convenient to wrap the components individually.

8. Wrap the pieces with carpet

• Wrap the carpet around whichever elements you desire to include. Make the pieces a couple of inches bigger than the wood by cutting them with a carpet knife. Prior to wrapping the carpet over and nailing it in place, cut away the corners of the carpet. To offer stability and a place to screw into a basket, insert a piece of plywood that has been trimmed to fit into the bottom of the basket. First, staple the end of the sisal rope to the posts (or other parts) and then wrap the rope continually, maintaining the coils tightly against each other. A staple should be used to secure the other end of the rope. Staple the rope in place along the length of the post, on the side that will not be visible, at random intervals along the length of the post. In order to maintain the natural appearance of the tree branches, only wrap parts of the branches.

9. Assemble the cat tower

• Reassemble the puzzle pieces once they have been wrapped in cat-friendly materials. When you’re finished, look for any sharp corners, nails or screws poking through, or anything else that might cause injury to your animal companion. Dangle a couple cat toys from the top of the tower to further entice them to play.

What Are Cat Trees Made Of?

• Find a piece of 3/4-inch plywood to use as a foundation for your structure. Don’t scrimp on the thickness
• If possible, go even thicker. Your goal is to have a base that is substantial enough to prevent the tower from tipping over. When it comes to reclining spaces, plywood or robust wicker baskets (with heavy fabric or faux fur to line them) are recommended. When looking for 4×4 timber (length based on your design), PVC pipe, or even a few of dry tree branches with the bark removed, make sure they are at least 4 feet tall
• Otherwise, they will fall over. You’ll need sisal rope and carpet for the scratching surfaces, respectively. You have the option of wrapping either around the posts, foundation, or platforms. Any thickness of rope will suffice, however the thinner the rope, the more length will be required to completely cover the underlying structural element. It is possible to get sisal rope from a craft supplier
• Nevertheless, it is best to leave worn carpets at the thrift store in order to avoid bringing unpleasant bugs into your home. Rather, get carpet remnants from a flooring retailer or a builders’ outlet store to save money.

Other Materials

• Wood glue
• Nails, screws, and staples
• And other fasteners Cup hooks of varying sizes

Tools You’ll Need

Even the most pampered pets retain a little bit of their feral nature. Although your kitten may be fed meals from a can, she will still love climbing and perching in a spot that feels comfortable and where she has an excellent perspective of everything around her, according to Lauren Novack, a Certified Behavior Consultant with Behaviour Vets of NYC A cat tree can give outlets for such activities if it incorporates scratching surfaces (such as cardboard, sisal, seagrass, or paper rope); shelves, baskets, or slings for perching; and a kitty cave or hiding spot where the cat can get away from the rest of the household.

These essentials are all part of your cat’s enrichment and engagement, which will keep her happy and healthy in the long run.

If you’re already putting together DIY cat tree designs and ideas, we’ve got a few suggestions that will guarantee your cat enjoys her cat tree for years to come (and leaves your furniture alone).

Why Your Kitty Needs a Cat Tree

That adorable purring fluffball that has captured your heart is actually a wild animal at her core, as it turns out. Since cats have just been domesticated for around 10,000 years (compared to approximately 30,000 years for dogs), it seems logical that some habits are still inherent, adds Novack, who also serves on the Daily Pawsadvisory board. In her opinion, “cat habitats should contain areas for climbing as well as for scratching, perching, and hiding.” “Cats require the capacity to climb and perch, and it is our responsibility to provide them with the means to do so.” For indoor cats, that secure, high perch is frequently found at the top of a cat tree or cat shelves—or on the highest shelf of a bookshelf or other piece of furniture that was not intended for cat climbing in the first place.

“A cat tree serves as a sort of stand-in for a real tree for your cat.

This is why an indoor cat tree is an absolute must-have in any cat-friendly home or apartment.

Best Places to Set Up a Cat Tree

The location of your cat tree might be the difference between a contented cat and a cat with behavioral issues. “Cats can keep an eye on their surroundings from a secure vantage point since they are perched so high. When they’re up in the air, they’re able to look for meals while remaining out of sight of predators, which is advantageous “Novak expresses himself. “A high perch provides your cat with a safe haven where they may get away from anything that is bothering them. These precautions are especially necessary if your cat lives with other animals or if you have children who do not understand the need of leaving your cat alone.” A cat tree is an excellent way for your cat to have some privacy while remaining out of reach of curious children and other furry friends.

And where do cats tend to congregate?

“If at all possible, try to locate your cat tree near a window,” Novak advises.

In addition to benefiting from the warm sun glinting off her perch, Novak recommends installing a window sill “so your cat may watch ‘kitty tv,'” referring to your cat’s pure delight of watching all the feathery and furry prey outside the window.

Best Designs for a Cat Tree

Cat trees are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, ranging from little versions for flats and tiny places to large playgrounds that take up a whole room. There are several types of cat shelves available, including cat trees that appear like actual trees and cat shelves that are wall-mounted and give a place for cats to climb and sit. But how much is “big enough” in this case? “As big as you can get away with,” Novak adds. “Your kitten is deserving of nothing but the finest.” If you have more than one cat, your cat tree should expand in proportion to the number of cats.

You should make certain that your cat tree is firmly fastened and safe for your cat to climb regardless of its size or whether it is freestanding or wall-mounted.

Cat shelves should be installed using wall anchors and studs that have been drilled into the wall.

“If you’re going to take this path, make sure you invest in high-quality materials.”

Best Materials for a Cat Tree

You may construct your cat tree out of a variety of materials, including actual tree branches, dimensional lumber from the hardware store, and even cardboard. The most crucial factors to consider are stability and the use of materials that are safe for your cat to be around. Take dimensional timber, for example. If you want to paint or stain it, make sure to use nontoxic coatings because your cat will scratch it, resulting in flakes that might be consumed. While pressure-treated timber may be necessary for outdoor construction, its weather- and pest-resistant features are not required for inside construction; therefore, you may skip using wood that has been treated with those compounds.

If you have an area like that, a carpet remnant might provide a solid and cozy cover.

If there are many sorts of scratching surfaces available, that’s even better,” Novak suggests.

Simple DIY Cat Tree Ideas

Of course, you do not have to use power tools, timber, or assemble a cat tree to create a do it yourself project. With simple DIY cat tree ideas, you can have a good time and be creative! Remember that bookcase your cat likes to perch on when it’s not in use? Perhaps it might be transformed into cat furniture? Creating openings in the shelves to allow your cat to roam freely from one shelf to another, inserting sisal for scratching, and putting down bedding for naps are all options, according to Novak.

“However, you can keep it much more basic than that and do it for free!” says the author.

Novak expresses himself. Put to good use all of those Amazon boxes that have been piling up in your recycling bin “and construct a cat fort The only thing that stands between you and success is your imagination.”

Cat Lovers! Learn How to Make a DIY Cat Tree Using Real Branches

Of course, power equipment, timber, and assembly are not required when constructing a DIY cat tree. With simple DIY cat tree ideas, you may have a good time and express your creativity. That bookshelf your kitten likes to perch on? Does that still exist? Perhaps it might be transformed into cat furniture.. Creating openings in the shelves to allow your cat to roam freely from one shelf to another, inserting sisal for scratching, and putting down bedding for naps are all ideas suggested by Novak.

In order to be effective, cat shelves don’t need to be anything fancy.

“However, you can make it much more basic than that, and you can do it completely free!” ‘It’s up to you,’ replies Novak.

“a cat fort to be built It is just your imagination that sets the boundaries.”

How to Make a Cat Tree From a Real Tree and My Stunning DIY Cat Tree!

For a long time, I’ve wanted to create a cat tree out of actual branches for my cats. Having said that, it’s one of those projects that has been rising up on my dream project wish list for quite some time. I’m thrilled with how the tree turned out! My father and I went for a walk in the woods behind our house one day when we were visiting my parents, and we came back with two branches in our hands. This is the cat tree as it appeared before the photograph: My vision for these branches was quite grand!

• Pet Tree Houses has some of my favorite structures.
• Here are a few of my personal favorites.
• (Image has been deleted.) I kept my expectations in check because I’m not a skilled woodworker, and many of these trees were created by experts, so I chose to take parts and pieces from each design and merge them into something that I could actually create.
• So take a deep breath and appreciate my abilities: In the end, I didn’t stray too far from my original goals.

SUPPLY LIST:

Creating a cat tree out of actual branches has been on my to-do list for quite some time now. The idea for this project has been brewing on my “dream project wish list” for quite some time now. This tree turned out beautifully, and I am overjoyed with it. My father and I went for a walk in the woods behind our house one day when we were visiting my parents, and we came back with two branches in our arms. Previously, here is the cat tree in its original form: My plans for these branches were rather ambitious!

Pet Tree Houses has some of my favorite options.

Here are a few of my personal favorites to share: Please have a look at their products if you’re in the market for a cat tree but don’t have the time to build one from scratch.

I kept my expectations in check because I’m not a skilled woodworker, and many of the trees on display were created by experts.

Then, using a pencil and paper, I drew up a superadvanceddesign. So take a deep breath and appreciate my abilities: In the end, I didn’t go too far from my original goal. With these foolproof plans in hand, I set out to acquire the necessary materials for our adventure.

Branchessupport pieces:

• There is a large branch and a little branch. My tiny one is around 3 feet tall, and my large one stands about 5.5 feet tall. A paint scraper, such as this one available here
• Minwax Stain in Natural and Rust-Oleum Ultimate Polyurethane in Satin
• A small hand-heldsaw
• Sisal for scratching post sections
• And a small hand-heldsaw. Faux vines—mine are from Jo-Ann Fabrics and are rather ancient. (Please note that if your cats enjoy eating fake plants, you should avoid using them.) However, my cats would eat and vomit on genuine plants if I gave them to them.)
• 2′′ x 48′′ dowel, cut in half for the scratchers (here)
• 2.5′′ wood screws
• 2′′ x 48′′ dowel, cut in half for the scratchers (here)

Baseplatforms:

• Both a large and a tiny branch were used in this project. Approximately 3 feet tall for my tiny one, and 5.5 feet tall for my large one This is an example of a paint scraper: a small hand-heldsaw, sisal for scratching post sections, and Rust-Oleum Ultimate Polyurethane inSatin
• Minwax Stain in Natural and Rust-Oleum Ultimate Polyurethane in Satin Jo-faux Ann’s vines—I have several that are quite ancient. Notice: If your cats enjoy eating fake plants, avoid using them.) However, my cats would eat and vomit on genuine plants if I gave them to them.
• A 2′′ x 48′′ dowel, cut in two parts for the scratchers (see here)
• 2.5′′ wood screws
• 2′′ x 48′′ dowel, cut in two pieces for the scratchers
• 2′′ x 48′′ dowel, cut in two pieces for the scratchers (see here)

Miscellaneous toolssupplies:

• Miter saw
• Drill—I already have one of them
• Hand-held staple gun
• Sandpaper in various grades (I used 100 and 150 grit)
• Liquid Nails Heavy Duty Construction Adhesive is a low-cost, high-performance adhesive. Nails and screws in a variety of sizes

And here are the DIY cat tree plans!

This is the miter saw I have; this is the drill that I have; Hand-held staple gun; a variety of sandpaper (I used 100 and 150 grit); Construction adhesive Liquid Nails Heavy Duty Construction Adhesive—inexpensive it’s and quite effective; nails and screws in a variety of sizes

Step 1: Scrape, sand, and finish the branches.

The first step in making my own DIY cat tree out of a real tree was…finding a genuine tree and preparing the branches for use! Once our branches had dried sufficiently, we scraped the bark off and finished and coated them with a clear sealant. Because this is a significant amount of effort, I separated out the processes into their own lengthy page describing how I stripped, dyed, and sealed my branches! For more information on how to finish branches for decor, please visit this page. However, here’s a peak inside the extremely dirty, extremely unpleasant, and extremely satisfying process: Following the removal of the bark, we flattened the branches to the best of our ability.

Step 2: Attach the branches to the base and finish the base.

To begin, we pre-drilled holes in the branches with a drill bit. We noticed a few fractures in our branches as a result of drying, so we made a point of drilling around those gaps. We screwed 2.5′′ screws up through the bottom of the plywood and into the branches to position and join the branches to the main base piece, which was plywood. Lastly, we applied Liquid Nails to the bottom of each branch before screwing them into place. Following that, we finished the construction of the base. We used 1′′ x 3′′ wood pieces that were trimmed to length to create a raised border all the way around.

My Kona stain was used throughout the whole base, which I completed with two coats of semi-gloss polyurethane.

Step 3: Create and install the scratching posts.

We began working on the scratching posts once the foundation had been completed and the two branches had been attached. The poles were constructed from a 2′′ x 48′′ hardwood dowel that was chopped into two parts. In order to match the foundation, I stained and polished these in Kona and semi-gloss poly before gluing sisal rope around them. We used a hand-held staple gun to secure the sisal rope in place while the glue dried, and it worked well. (We took them out to protect our cats’ paws once the adhesive had cured completely.) Then, just like we did with the tree branches, we smeared someLiquid Nailon the bottom of each post and screwed them into the foundation of the structure.

Step 4: Create the platforms.

I gathered four spare pieces of wood to serve as platforms for the stools. It was wonderful to be able to put these small bits and pieces to use that had been collecting dust! The rear scratching post platform is really little, resembling more of a step stool for the young girl, whilst the front scratching post platform is a little more substantial. The two higher platforms are around the same size—large enough for King Henry to stand on both at the same time. In addition, we construct a little little ledge around the tallest level in order to coincide with the foundation.

For the platforms, I settled on a mix of stained (Kona) and finished (semi-gloss poly) wood to match the base and platforms upholstered in faux-fur fabric. They had the same faux fur on their last cat condo, and they liked it, so I just utilized it here as well.

Step 5: Install the platforms.

Several different types of liquid nails, screws, and a nail gun were utilized to fix each platform in its final location on the wall. While we were putting the platforms together, this is what my father looked like!

Step 6: Add finishing touches!

Yay, we’re almost finished! It’s time to put the final touches on things. I added a few inexpensive stepping stones and large boulders at the foot of the tree to keep it from sagging. Fortunately, the pebbles are large enough that neither cat will mistake the base for a litter box without prompting, and Henry will not consume them (he is an asshole who consumes a wide variety of items he shouldn’t be eating). Walking stones allow them to stroll around the base and helped me keep expenses down because they were far less expensive than the boulders I was considering.

However, if our cats were interested in eating artificial plants, I would not have utilized these.

And here it is—Our DIY cat tree using a real tree in its home:

Consider checking out my elevated cat feeder DIY, this simple catnip toy DIY, my ideas for building a cat home side table, and this compilation of DIYs your pets will like. You’re going to be thrilled with the overall cost of this job. The tree I particularly liked cost $800 (and it was made entirely of artificial branches!). I spent…$75.12 on my Christmas tree! What I spent (after taking use of discounts for much of it) is broken down as follows:

• To polish the branches, use a satin finish ($6.00)
• Semi-gloss polyurethane ($6.47)
• Faux vines ($12.99)
• Decorative pebbles and stepping stones ($25.07)
• Lumber for the foundation ($13.14)
• Wooden dowel ($7.98)
• And liquid nails ($3.47)

What about everything else? It was discovered, foraged, previously owned, or borrowed with the assistance of my wonderful father!

An update about our tree branch cat treemore trees from readers!

Two years later, I released an update post to let you all know how the cat tree was holding up in terms of durability. Take a look at the newly updated cat tree post. Some of my readers have also contacted me to let me know that they followed my instruction to construct a Christmas tree for their cats. They have generously allowed me to share these with you all in order to encourage you all to make your own masterpieces!

Bryan’s tree…

Bryan provides some excellent advice, and I particularly appreciate how he used L-brackets to tie the upper platform to a wall in order to keep it from swinging. Thank you for your contribution, Bryan! Hello, I just wanted to send you a little message to express my appreciation for your excellent cat tower project design! It has lately come to my attention that I have once again become a Cat Daddy, and my new baby (Wesa-Ki) is a highly lively Maine Coon cat. He’s always been a climber, so I started searching around for something that wasn’t too out of the ordinary for him to do to get some exercise and make some observations.

• In addition to making a few modifications to your design, I increased the base width to 4′ and, because it would not be placed in front of a window, I extended the short side tray pieces of the top platform so that they would stretch all the way to the wall.
• This provided excellent stability to the branch, which was otherwise susceptible to swaying.
• However, it is now rock firm!
• -Bryan If you don’t have an extra set of hands, this strategy can be quite useful for stabilizing.

The tree has been completed. With the help of an L-bracket, he was able to mount the platform against the wall. If you’re planning on placing this in front of a window, this is obviously not the best option, but it is an excellent idea for anchoring the tree to a wall to avoid swaying!

Alex and Julia’s Tree…

Bryan provides some excellent advice, and I particularly appreciate the way he used L-brackets to tie the top platform to a wall in order to prevent it from wobbling while being used. I appreciate you letting me know, Bryan. Just a little message of appreciation for your great cat tower project design, which I’d like to pass along to you. The fact that I have lately returned to being a cat father is because my new kitten (Wesa-Ki) is a highly active Maine Coon kitten. Considering that he’s always been an avid climber, I set out to find him something else to do for exercise and observation that wasn’t too out of the ordinary, and I came up with something like this.

• Although it took me around 6 weeks of progressive labor and learning new skills to complete this project on my own, a good challenge is something I like doing.
• Because the branch was 5.5 feet tall, I used a couple of L-brackets to tie it to the wall.
• However, even with a 5′′ lag bolt to hold it to the floor and baseboard brads all around it, there was still a little too much flexibility in the joint.
• We would want to express our gratitude once more to you.
• The construction of the tree is underway.
• With the use of an L-bracket, he was able to secure the platform to the wall.

• After scraping away all of the bark, they used epoxy resin to fill in the gaps. “The only significant step we took that you didn’t was to fill the cracks with epoxy resin dyed with mica powder in a dark chocolate color and sanded it back to a smooth finish afterwards,” they explained. “It seemed to take an eternity!” The “toadstools” are also brilliant
• I really like these. It is possible to see how they built those by stacking batting in one of the photographs below with Julia
• The branch that spreads out far to the side of the main tree—you can see that it is rather thin and may be wondering how it is sustained
• And If you look closely at the photos below, you will notice that they have added two L brackets to the wall to aid with the construction. They used what seems to be tied string and hooks put into the bottom of the perch to make the fur topper detachable from that same perch, which was a brilliant design decision. Excellent concept for washing, and I’ll most likely use it when I replace our current washer and dryer set.

Thank you, Alex and Julia, for your generosity! Julia scrapes the branch with her foot.

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1. Scrape, sand, and polish the branches to a high shine. This page contains a step-by-step instruction on how to accomplish this. Cut extremely little sections of the branches at a time to level the tops and bottoms of the branches by eyeballing it by then cutting it off
2. Holes in the branches that have been pre-drilled
3. 2.5″ screws are used to attach the branches to the main base piece, which is plywood, by screwing them up through the plywood and into the branches from underneath. Before screwing the branches on, apply Liquid Nail to the bottom of each branch. Create a solid foundation and complete it
4. Construct a raised edge all the way around with 1″ x 3″ pine pieces that have been trimmed to size
5. Using Kona, stain the whole foundation and finish it with two coats of semi- gloss polyurethane (optional). To make the scratching posts, cut a 2″ x 48″ wooden dowel in half and then into two sections. To finish the scratching posts, stain and finish them in Kona and semi-gloss poly to match the base, then wrap them in sisal rope and glue them together. Apply some Liquid Nails to the bottom of each post and screw them into the base of the structure, exactly like you did with the branches of the trees. Construct the platforms and cover them with faux fur to complete the look. To fix each platform in place, use a mix of Liquid Nails, screws, and a nail gun. Place a few inexpensive stepping stones and large boulders at the foot of the tree to maintain the tree’s foundation hefty. And that’s the end of it

Notes

Please keep in mind that if your cats enjoy eating fake plants, you should avoid using them.

20 DIY Cat Tree Plans You Can Build Today (with Pictures)

Cats are well-known for their proclivity for scaling walls and ceilings. Some cats love swinging from a tree pretending to be a tiger (like ours!) while others prefer to sit on a high branch and watch the world go by (like ours!). In addition to providing enrichment for your cat, cat trees also provide a safe and relaxing environment for them to play and relax in. Cat trees are ideal for cats who want to sleep in an elevated posture, as they give a safe and secure environment for them to feel comfortable and secure.

And the best part is that they’re all completely free!

The approximate level of DIY ability necessary for each plan, as well as the supplies and equipment you’ll need to get started, are all included in the price of the plan. Let’s get started on the cat tower construction blueprints!

1. Cactus DIY Cat Tree from Nifty on BuzzFeed

This super-cute Cactus Cat Tree idea from Tracy Raetz and Nifty on BuzzFeed is free of prickles, so you don’t have to be concerned about your cat picking them up. Feel free to match the felt blossoms to the rest of your home’s decor, and don’t forget to sprinkle some catnip on top before watching your cat scale this incredibly amusing cactus. Materials

• Cement, ABS tubing and couplings, foam balls, a wooden disk, sisal rope, felted flowers, screws, and fabric dye are all included.

2. Dadand.com’s DIY Kitty Condo

You may make this budget-friendly cat condo from Dadand.com for your cat if he or she is seeking for a fashionable area to hang out! With four platforms, this is an excellent choice if you have a large number of cats. Materials

3. Instructables 21 Step DIY Cat Tree

Linda Rose on Instructables created this big cat tree out of largely recycled and salvaged materials – and it turned out to be a smashing success! For those who have lots of space to spare and want a design that includes many levels and comfy hiding spaces for your cat, this is an ideal choice. Materials

• Wood, cardboard tubes, curtain rods, Styrofoam, fabric/carpet, upholstery foam, nails, screws, twine, paint, glue, Velcro, and other materials are available.

• Drill, screwdriver, hot glue gun, craft knife, sandpaper, jigsaw, and sewing machine are all useful tools.

4. Instructables 7 Step DIY Cat Tower Plans

The following tools are required: Drill; Screwdriver; Hot glue gun; Knife for crafting; Sandpaper; Jigsaw; Sewing machine

5. Real DIY Cat Tree Plans by Brittany Goldwyn

The following tools are required: Drill; Screwdriver; Hot glue gun; Craft knife; Sandpaper; Jigsaw; Sewing machine.

• Branching out with nature
• Staining with varnish or staining with sisal rope and faux vines
• Using a dowel, paint scraper, plywood
• Stepping stones with decorative pebbles or faux fur.

• Plywood
• Decorative pebbles or stepping stones
• Carpet or fake fur. Materials: natural branches, varnish or stain, sisal rope, faux vines, dowel, paint scraper.

6. Epic DIY Cat Tree Featuring Multiple Platforms and a Real Tree

If you’ve recently completed the removal of several trees from your backyard, you may use this post fromBoredom Therapy as inspiration for creating an awesome genuine cat treeMaterials for your home.

• Tree trunk with branches, plywood, lag screws, varnish, carpet, sisal rope, and other materials

• A circle jigsaw, a small saw, a laser level, a belt sander or sandpaper, scissors, and glue are all necessary tools.

7. Cole and Marmalade 5 Step Cat Tower Plan

This simple cat tree by Cole and Marmaladeuses is made from a variety of readily available materials, and the design may be simply modified to suit the resources you have on hand. Materials

• Sisal rope
• Plywood
• Nails
• Screws
• Plastic tubing (adjust to fit anything you have lying around the house)
• And other materials. Carpet or synthetic fur
• Cat toys
• And other items

8. The Experimental Home Large Cat Tree

You may make your cat the proud owner of this enormous cat tree developed by The Experimental Home if you set aside a day to do it. This easy-to-assemble cat tree will provide your cat plenty of area to eat, sleep, hide, and play. Materials

• Concrete form, plywood, PVC pipes, carpet, lag bolts, sisal rope, cat hammock, glue, staples, and other materials

9. Cat Tower Tree from Imgur

If your cat enjoys climbing, thisCat Tower Tree from Imgurwill keep them amused for several hours at a stretch. The hollow inside of the tree allows our cat to climb both inside and outside of the structure! Materials

• Wooden board, carpet, wood glue, a wooden circle for the foundation, and varnish are all needed.

10. Ana White’s Cat Tree With Walkways

Wooden board, carpet, wood glue, a wooden circle for the foundation, and varnish are all required.

11. HGTV DIY Cat Tree With Basket Beds

This Cat Tree with Basket Beds from HGTV is a straightforward design that makes use of a PVC pipe to build a towering structure. There are also adorable baskets for your cat to rest in that are available in a variety of heights. Materials

12. WikiHow Ladder Cat Tree

For those of you who have an old wooden ladder that you don’t want to throw away, WikiHow offers a great guide that will show you how to transform it into a gorgeous multi-level cat tree for your lucky feline buddy. Materials

• An old wooden ladder, sisal rope, glue, plywood, paint, carpet, nails, a cat hammock or piece of cloth, a cat toy

13. WikiHow Wood And Carpet Cat Tree

If you want to build your own cat tree from the ground up, WikiHow provides thorough instructions for a DIY cat tree constructed from a combination of wood and carpet that you may follow. There’s much for your cat to do here, thanks to a charming little ladder and numerous platforms to choose from. Materials

14. DIY Network Carpet And Sisal Cat Tree

With this Carpet and Sisal Cat Tree from theDIY Network, you can provide your cat with lots of space to scratch, nap, and climb.

There’s plenty of room for many cats on each of the three platforms. You should be able to complete this project in an afternoon as well. Materials

15. Southern Revivals Cat Tree Play Tower

This stunning, minimalistic cat tree play tower by Southern Revivalsincorporates natural branches as well as lots of space for your cat to play and relax in comfort. Materials

• Jute, plywood, concrete, wood of various sizes, real tree trunks, faux fur, sisal rope, glue, wood stain, screws, and other materials

• Jigsaw, miter saw, nail gun, hot glue gun, table saw, and craft knife are all useful tools.

16. Kristen’s DIY Cat Tree

Create a gorgeous cat tree with numerous platforms and comfy areas for your cat with this brilliantly upcycled A-frame bookshelf concept. It is possible to concentrate on painting and adding adorable decorations because the majority of the structure has already been completed for you. Materials

• The following items are required: A-frame bookshelf, faux fur, batting, Velcro, sisal rope, glue, carpet, paint, fabric, cat toys.

17. Instructables Cheap And Cheerful Cat Tree

For those on a tight budget, this inexpensive and cheery version fromInstructables makes use of a variety of salvaged items, including an old kitchen cabinet. You are welcome to swap any of the supplies with something else you already have in your garage if you so want. Materials

• Reclaimed wood, cardboard tubes, glue, cable ties, wooden batons, coir matting or sisal rope, faux grass, carpet, and other materials

18. Hallmark Channel Wood Ladder Cat Tree

This ingenious cat tree idea by Paige Hemsis on theHallmark Channelallows you to simply construct this cat tree in an afternoon or less by merging two wood ladders. Materials

• This innovative cat tree idea by Paige Hemsis on theHallmark Channelallows you to simply construct this cat tree in an afternoon or less by putting two wood ladders together. Materials

19. Instructables Wall-Mounted Cat Tree

ThisWall-Mounted Cat Tree on the Instructablessite is a fantastic solution if you have an active cat and need a tree that will withstand some major climbing and scratching! Due to the fact that the platforms of this tree are fixed to the wall, it is stronger and more sturdier than the ordinary cat tree. Materials

• Square-edged lumber
• Plywood
• Sisal rope
• Angle brackets
• Screws
• Wall plugs
• Carpet
• Glue
• And other materials

• Saw, drill, staple gun, spirit level, measuring tape, hammer, craft knife, and screwdriver are all useful tools.

20. Luxury Cat Tree from Show Cats Online

Show Cats on the Internet Cats are something that you should be familiar with. Their design for a LuxuryCat Treeincludes a carpeted tube, an attractive housing, and plenty of climbing and scratching opportunities for your cat. Materials

• The following materials are required: 2×4 lumber, carpet, plastic tube, sisal rope and plywood. Nails, brackets, screws and nails are required.

• Hammer, saw, utility knife, tape measure, hot glue gun, miter box, drill, glue, and other supplies

Conclusion

That’s all there is to it! We hope you appreciated our round-up of the very finest free DIYcat treeplans available for you to attempt, and that you now have a better understanding of how to construct a cat tree from the ground up! It doesn’t matter what amount of DIY experience you have; there’s a cat tree design to fit you – from a PVC cat tree plan to one that incorporates real branches for a touch of nature. The good news is that we can practically ensure that your cat will be content with anything you select!

Learn how to build a DIY cat tower, cat condo, cat tree

If you’re looking for simple DIY cat tower designs, you may get them right now. Alternatively, begin reading. You’re going to have to read anyhow.

Get the plans

PayPal is in charge of security. Our family went in the pet store a few months ago, and we came across those items while we were there. Cats use these items to climb on, sleep on, scratch, and cough up hairballs. “Dad, can we buy one of these things for the cats?” my daughter inquires. “What do you name them?” my eldest son inquires. “They are what I call costly,” I say. It’s pricey, like $150 and above. In addition, I have no intention of spending that much money on a cat only for the purpose of watching me from afar with its pompous little sneer.

1. Cats are not my favorite animal.
2. Despite this, I have two.
3. Because they are deserving of nothing but the finest.
4. Upon visiting the pet store, I discovered that these cat towers are “masterfully” created using cardboard concrete forms, two-by-fours, PVC pipe, sisal rope, and carpet scraps, among other materials.

I knew I had most of that material hanging around the house, taking up valuable shop space that might have been used for something else. And if I constructed my own DIY cat tower, I’d come out on top on a number of counts:

• Save $125 and get brownie points with your wife and children. This is a guest article for Dadand.com. Make use of any leftover materials or tidy up the shop. Cats are no longer scratching at other objects. Cats like to sleep at a more distant location from me.

So you can build a DIY Cat Tower / Cat Tree / Kitty Tower / Cat Furniture / Cat Gym / Cat Condo too.

I began by referring to a photograph I had taken of a $$$ Cat Tree at a pet supply store. After that, I drew a quick sketch of what I could do out of the resources I had on hand. These things are made entirely of particle board, cardboard, a few pieces of PVC pipe, and some cheap, unsightly carpet. Instead of spending money on a concrete form (for the curving platforms), I just made them flat with a hammer and nails. Here’s a list of the supplies you’ll need for your do-it-yourself cat tower.

• (2) 2’x4’x1/2″ plywood, particle board, or MDF
• (1) 2″x4″x8′
• 50 ft. of 14″ or 3/8″ Sisal Rope ($5-$8)
• 1 Yd by 12 ft Progressive – Natural Carpet ($5.22 per sq. yard = $20.88)
• 2″ Screws – wood or drywall, plus if you’re anal, some Kreg pocket hole screws
• (1)

Here are the tools I used to complete the project:

• Below is a list of the tools I used to do this project:

Here are the tools that I utilized:

Refer to the downloadable cat tower plans for a cut guide.

PayPal is in charge of security. However, I don’t really cut along the lines; I only lay the sheet out to help me envision and ensure that I can collect all of the parts I need off the sheet before cutting. Additionally, noting the locations of the 2’x4′ uprights will aid in the assembly process. In addition, it makes for a wonderful photograph for you guys. This is the carpet that I purchased from Home Depot a few months ago. It cost around $5 per square yard and measured 12 feet in length. So 1 yard by 12 feet was more than enough to cover the entire cat tree, plus I had enough left over to make a little doormat for my store entrance.

• Everything is stacked up outside on my improvised workstation, and you can see it all here.
• Just make sure it’s plumb and insert several screws from the base into the upright to complete the project.
• Pocket holes enable you to virtually screw a screw into a workpiece at an angle of around 15 degrees from one component to another.
• As a result, I was able to secure the first and second floors straight into the uprights without the need for a cleat or any other fastening into the floor surface from the upright.
• You clamp it down where you want to make a pocket hole……then use the Kreg pocket hole drill bit to drill through the clamped-down jig.
• Here are two pocket holes for your consideration.
• I enlisted the help of my twin daughters and my youngest son in sanding some of the pre-drilled holes for the uprights.

There’s a fight about who gets to go to the sand.

I marked the uprights so that I would have a point of reference when it came time to fasten each level of the cat tower.

What makes it difficult is that every piece grows by 12 inches once it has been upholstered.

As a result, I made up for it by cutting my boards a little smaller (the cut list is exact), and by taking away some carpet from the uprights in a few strategic areas.

Let’s take care of the uprights.

If you don’t have access to an air stapler, you may use the Arrow T-50 instead.

I cut the carpet in the middle with a long metal straightedge to create a lovely, straight seam.

The upright for the first floor is seen here.

Since they’ve been declawed, they can only scratch with their simu-scratch.

Make use of a long staple in this situation so that it can get a good bite into the wood and is less likely to come out later.

The second storey is seen in this photograph.

The carpet must be trimmed to allow for approximately 2″-3″ of overlap on all edges, since this item will be wrapped with carpet.

Keep in mind that you’ll be folding up the corners in the end, so avoid stapling all the way to the corner.

Can you see the corners?

And right now, I’m trying to figure out how I’m going to capture that process in writing on a page.

Simply display a completed photo.

When you go onto the following photo, you will be able to see the corners.

However, when dealing with thick, firm carpet, I prefer the method on the right.

To illustrate how I want to cut, I sketched some guidelines in the first frame to serve as a guide.

The cut that runs across the diagram creates lovely 45-degree flaps that may be stapled to the back of the schematic.

I’ve transferred everything to the cluttered porch where I’ll finish putting it all together later.

Because we had already put up the cat condo, this was a piece of cake for us.

I just drove the screws all the way through the carpeting and into the uprights (from the top down into the upright).

Done.

Eventually, I flipped the tree around so that it would be simpler for me and our two-year-old to go to the top level, and I placed one of their mattresses on the third floor to tempt them to leave me and our two-year-old alone.

Make a go at building your own DIY cat tower. Send us some photos or anything to illustrate your point. Only thing I ask is that you refrain from sending me any more cats.

Download the awesome cat tower plans here.

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