How to Build a Cat Clubhouse

Many cats find more amusement in playing with a string than with an expensive cat toy, so building a simple clubhouse with inexpensive materials may be the best option. Cats like enclosed, empty spaces. Cardboard boxes attract cats because they are familiar and uncomplicated. Building a club house with cardboard boxes creates a place for your cat to explore or take a nap. You will want to make sure it is safe and secure before letting your cat loose.

Things You'll Need

  • Cardboard boxes
  • Duct tape
  • Carpet squares
  • Carpet glue
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Instructions

    • 1

      Gather up similarly sized cardboard boxes. The number of boxes will depend on how intricate you want the club house to be. Between five and 10 boxes should be enough. Open the boxes from both ends and let the flaps stick out. Set the boxes out on your work area so you can finalize your assembly plans.

    • 2

      Line the boxes up in the order that you would like to connect them. If you want the club house to be limited to the ground floor, then make sure you make twists and turns so that the cat has something to explore. You may consider connecting the boxes in an L, T, or cross-shape. Make sure there are multiple exits so the cat does not feel trapped.

    • 3

      Ensure that the upper levels are properly secured, if you decide to have multiple levels. Any boxes that are not on the ground level should have other boxes beneath them for support. Do not simply leave connected boxes suspended in the air with nothing below them. Make sure that support boxes are closed so that the cat will not fall through.

    • 4

      Connect the boxes with duct tape in the pattern you have chosen. Use multiple layers of tape so that the boxes will not rip apart. Put tape where the boxes connect on the outside as well as on the inside. You may also want to glue carpet squares on the inside bottom at intervals so the cat has something to scratch and will not chew on the cardboard. Use a non-toxic carpet glue to secure the squares.

    • 5

      Entice the cat to try out the clubhouse. The cat will probably want to explore the new structure on its own, but if it becomes wary, you can use some familiar objects to draw its attention. You may want to situate the cat's food and water nearby or even put some of your cat's favorite toys inside. If you want the cat to sleep inside the club house, put an old towel or piece of clothing in the boxes so the cat will feel at home.