How to Design a Cat Tower
Cats are natural climbers. They also love to scratch (if they are not de-clawed). If you have outdoor cats, these needs will be met in the natural world. If you own an indoor cat, though, leaving the climbing and scratching needs unmet can lead to havoc in your personal living space. One way to solve this problem is to build a cat tower. Cat towers are indoor structures that can be made from a variety of materials in order to meet the needs of your individual cat.
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Things You'll Need
- Building materials as determined by steps 1-5 (wood, carpet, twine, burlap)
- Tools as deemed appropriate for building materials (nails, saw, hammer)
- Cat toys (optional)
Instructions
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1
Consider the personality traits of your cat. For example: is it more a climber or a scratcher? Does it like to curl up in enclosed spaces or perch?
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2
Determine the amount of space you can designate for your cat tower. Cat towers can be made to fit any type of space; just be aware of pictures, other wall-mounted objects, or nearby plants that could become a target for a curious kitty if the tower is not situated strategically.
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3
Pick your building materials. Cat trees commonly are made from scraps of wood, old carpet, burlap, old ladders, and twine. Consider the needs of your cat as you decide what to use. For example, a cat that loves to scratch requires touch material such as carpet to cover the tower so that it can sharpen its claws. Cats that love to climb may enjoy running up and town a tower covered in burlap.
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4
Think about toys. Cats love to play. Hanging a few toys from twine, such as a ball, a catnip-filled item, or whatever your cat's favorite toy is, will lure your cat to the tower and provoke interest and playfulness.
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5
Consider the age of your cat. Older cats still love to play, but because they are not as spry, they may require features such as steps.
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6
Construct the tower in any way you please, using a combination of towers, perches, stairs, and boxes, making sure that it is stable. If your cat is especially spastic, consider stabilizing the tree by either nailing it to the floor or securing it to the wall or ceiling with twine.
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Tips & Warnings
Cat towers can be made inexpensively if you already have power tools and an abundance of scrap materials sitting around in your basement or garage. If you construct boxes, make sure that the opening is large enough to allow your cat to go in and out with ease.
If you use power tools, be sure also to use proper protective equipment.
