Running out of floor space because of cat furniture? Your furry friend might love to climb, but perhaps you're running out of sufficient options. I can empathize with that predicament.
My own feline companions were on the lookout not just for their routine spots to unwind and scratch. They were seeking lofty spaces that held the promise of exploration and security.
Then, I discovered a delightful concept from Vivianne and her partner J, who constructed a cat climbing wall for their British Shorthairs. Their space was limited, but their larger felines savored the high perches.
This idea caught my eye instantly. Consequently, I decided to learn how to construct one myself—a trendy arrangement that conserves space and pleases both felines and their guardians.
In this blog, we'll discuss how to fashion a DIY Cat Wall Tower replete with platforms, sisal steps, and comfortable fabric hammocks—perfect for maintaining your cat's physical prowess and preventing boredom! Let's begin this exciting project for your feline friend.
Key Takeaways
- Check space before building a cat wall tower. Measure the area and make sure it's safe for your cat to jump and climb.
- Use strong materials like medium-density fibreboard, sisal rope, and solid oak panels. These keep the tower stable and let cats scratch safely.
- Include different parts in your tower: platforms for climbing, steps to reach them, cozy spots for napping, and scratching posts.
- Follow step-by-step instructions to build the base first. Then, securely add platforms, accessories, non-slip surfaces, and relaxing spots.
- A DIY cat wall tower gives cats fun ways to explore high spaces safely. It helps keep them active and happy indoors.
Planning Your DIY Cat Wall Tower
When planning your DIY cat wall tower, checking your space is key. You need to find the perfect spot where your cat can jump and climb without getting hurt. Then, picking materials comes next.
Go for sturdy ones like medium-density fibreboard for the base and sisal rope for scratching posts. This way, you make something safe and fun for your kitty to explore.
Assessing Space and Placement
First, examine your area. The ideal location for your cat wall tower needs to be identified. Evaluate places your cat prefers to spend time. Is it near a window? Perhaps around where you usually linger? It's logical to construct it in such places.
Accurately measure the anticipated wall, ensuring it's adequately spacious for the tower’s components.
Next, consider the safety and comfortability of your adorable pet. The initial platform must be 14 inches off the ground. This allows for easy access. Depending on your cat's size, steps or shelves should have a spacing of 12-18 inches.
Corners are a wise choice for bedding or perches, as cats appreciate elevated positions for a comprehensive view of their surroundings. Also, confirming that the shelves are firmly affixed to the wall studs offers guaranteed stability when your cat jumps around.
The task of selecting materials comes after determining the suitable spot and aligning it with my cat's requirements.
Choosing the Right Materials
Choosing the right materials is key for a solid cat wall tower. I used Ikea Ekby Valter shelf carriers. Each can hold up to 10 kg, which is excellent for safety. CanDo solid oak panels give strength and style.
I picked MDF boards for the base since they are sturdy and easy to work with.
Sisal rope became my choice for wrapping climbing poles. It took time, but it added grip for my cats. I made small steps from sisal, too—each measures 26 cm deep and can hold up to 25 kg! Foam-covered spots help my cats relax comfortably and are easy to clean with Velcro.
Selecting quality upholstery fabric adds flair while keeping it functional. With all these materials in place, I'm excited about creating impressive spaces for my feline friends…
Next up is building!
Key Components of a Cat Wall Tower
A cat wall tower needs several important parts. You’ll want platforms for climbing, steps to reach them, and cozy spots for napping. Scratching posts are also a must—they keep the claws sharp and help with their health…
Platforms and Steps
I place the first platform around 14 inches from the ground. For the best climbing experience, I space each step about 12-18 inches apart. This suits any cat's size or fitness level, making it easy for kittens, older cats, and even timid ones to use.
Corners work well as perches, too; they let my cats observe their surroundings while feeling secure.
Scratching Posts
Scratching posts are key for a DIY cat wall tower. They help satisfy my cat's natural scratching urges. I chose to wrap the climbing pole with 8mm thick sisal rope. This gives them a great place to scratch and climb.
I also added a wall-mounted sisal scratcher. It fits perfectly on the tower, allowing easy access for my cats. Scratching helps keep their claws healthy and strong, too. Plus, it prevents damage to furniture.
Incorporating these features makes my cat tower more attractive and valuable. Cats need places to scratch, climb, and rest—this setup does all that! Now let's talk about platforms and how they enhance the experience for our furry friends…
Sleeping and Resting Areas
Sleeping and resting areas are key parts of a cat wall tower. They help our cats feel safe and relaxed. I like to include shelves, hammocks, and comfy beds for my cats. The first shelf or hammock should be about 14 inches off the ground.
This height works well for most cats.
Older or disabled cats need easy spots to lounge. I place their beds closer to the ground so they can reach them easily. Timid cats appreciate hiding spots, too! These let them observe without feeling exposed.
Corners of walls are great for perches or beds as they offer extra safety.
Now that we have cozy spots set up let's discuss the essential components like platforms and steps…
Step-by-Step Building Instructions
Building a DIY cat wall tower can be fun and easy. You'll start by making the base strong and steady… then you'll add platforms, steps, and other fun spots for your cat to enjoy.
Constructing the Base
The base is the heart of the cat wall tower. It keeps everything stable and safe for your furry friend.
- Start with plywood and lumber. These materials are strong and will hold up well.
- Cut the plywood pieces according to your designs. This helps to make sure they fit together perfectly.
- Assemble the base using screws and pocket holes. Secure connections will keep it sturdy.
- Add carpet covering if you like. This makes the base soft and cozy for your cat.
- Measure twice before cutting any material. Accurate measurements lead to a better build.
A solid base supports climbing, jumping, and lounging—great for your cat’s physical health!
Installing Platforms and Accessories
Installing platforms and accessories is essential for a great DIY cat wall tower. This helps create safe, fun spots for my cat to climb and play.
- Choose Your Platforms
I pick wooden shelves or thick boards. They need to be sturdy enough to hold my cat’s weight. Install them at different heights for variety.
- Secure the Joints
I always use thread-locking fluid on any screws. This keeps everything tight and safe over time. My cat's safety comes first!
- Add Non-Slip Surfaces
To help my cat grip better, I stick carpet squares onto the platforms. This gives her a non-slip surface to walk on confidently.
- Install Scratching Posts
A wall-mounted sisal scratcher is perfect here. It encourages scratching in a healthy way and keeps furniture safe from damage.
- Create Relaxing Spots
I add fabric hammocks or soft bedding on some platforms for resting areas. Cats love having cozy places to sleep high above the ground.
- Check for Stud Location
Finding the right wall studs is key to hanging platforms safely. Using a stud finder makes this job easier and ensures everything stays up securely.
This step will make my DIY cat wall tower both fun and functional! Next, I'll focus on constructing the base of the tower…
Conclusion
Building a DIY cat wall tower was a fun project. It gave my cats plenty of ways to climb and explore. They love the high spots and cozy places to rest. Watching them use their new space brings me joy.
This stylish, practical climbing solution helps keep my kitties happy and healthy!
Just finished making my cat tower thanks to Andrew’s amazing guide. My fur babies love it! Thanks for making it super easy to follow!
In constructing the base, any recommendations on ensuring stability for heavier cats? I’m planning a multi-tier design and want to make sure it’s safe and durable.
Try adding a wider base and securing it to the wall. Worked for me!
Great suggestion, I’ll give that a try. Thanks!
Wish there was more on customizing each area. Any tips for personal touches?
I think pre-fab materials are better than scrapping something together. Less hassle and time. Change my mind?
Because who doesn’t love spending weekends on a project that your cat might just completely ignore, right?
Incorporated some hanging plants around the cat tower (out of reach, of course). Adds such a lovely touch! Thanks for the inspiration, Andrew.
Finally, a DIY project that’s well explained and achievable. Made a weekend project out of this and couldn’t be happier with the outcome. Kudos!
After calculating the cost of materials and time, DIYing a cat wall tower actually seems quite cost-effective compared to market options. Plus the customization aspect is a winner.
Made one. Cat’s claimed it as her throne. I now serve the queen of the wall tower.