How to Make a Two Tiered Cat Crate

Cats are curious, energetic pets that should never be confined to a cage for long periods of time. However, there may be times when you have to keep your cat in a type of crate, such as when you travel. You can help make this short stay inside the crate more comfortable for your cat by ensuring that the crate is appropriately sized and by adding a second story. A two tired cat crate will give your cat more room to play and relax and make the overall stay inside the crate much less stressful for your cat.

Things You'll Need

  • Measuring tape
  • Untreated soft wood
  • Medium density fiberboard
  • Nail gun
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Instructions

    • 1

      Use a crate that is large enough at the base for your cat to comfortably stand, sit, turn around and lie down. The should be tall enough that your cat will be able to complete these activities on both tiers once you add the second story.

    • 2

      Measure the length from one side of the crate to the other both ways. This measurement will help guide the stabilizing crossbar that you use to create the second tier.

    • 3

      Purchase or cut out a stabilizing crossbar from untreated soft wood. The crossbar should be roughly in the shape of a "T," with one piece running the length of the long side of the crate and the other running the length of the short side nearer to one end than the other. The actual shelf for the second story will sit on top of the crossbar.

    • 4

      Cut out the shelf for the second tier using medium density fiberboard. The shelf should cover about two thirds of the space within the cage, with enough room left for your cat to jump onto the second tier. The shape is up to you, but a thick "L" shape works well.

    • 5

      Install the crossbar to the side of the crate. The best method to secure the crossbar will likely be using a nail gun from the outside of the crate. Once the crossbar is secure, nail the shelf in place on top of it from underneath to complete the second tier.

    • 6

      Test the stability of the second tier by moving the crate around and tipping it from side to side. Make sure the second tier is completely secure before putting your cat inside.