Directions for Building a Cat Tree

Cat trees are pieces of furniture designed specifically for your cat's enjoyment. Cat trees can be any height, may be covered in rope or carpet and may even include dangling toys or tunnels for hiding. This piece of furniture may seem insignificant to you, but it can mean hours of entertainment for your cat. Your cat can climb, jump and play on the tree and release pent-up energy. Cat trees are also a great way to keep claws trim and in shape, away from your own furniture or carpet. You can build your own cat tree at home, no matter how much building experience you have.

Things You'll Need

  • 4-foot step ladder
  • Tape measure
  • 2-by-4 wood stud
  • Hammer and nails
  • 12-inch round cardboard concrete form
  • Sisal rope
  • Heavy-duty staple gun
  • Heavy-duty staples
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Instructions

    • 1

      Open the step ladder and stand it up as if you were going to climb the ladder. (See References 1 for all steps.)

    • 2

      Use a tape measure to measure the length from the front legs of the ladder to the back legs where they touch the floor. Make a note of the measurement.

    • 3

      Cut the wood stud (or have it cut when you buy it) into two pieces, each matching the measurement recorded.

    • 4

      Nail one of the wooden studs to the right front leg and right rear leg of the ladder. Repeat this with the left side. Once the studs are attached, the ladder should look like it is wearing skis.

    • 5

      Use the concrete form to make a tunnel for the cat tree. Choose how long you want the tunnel to be, then have the form cut to length. Place the form onto the wood studs (between the legs of the ladder) and nail it on to secure it.

    • 6

      Wrap sisal rope tightly around each leg and step of the ladder and tightly around the tunnel and wood studs attached to the ladder. Attach the rope to the structure using heavy-duty staples.