Cat Tower Instructions

Every cat needs its own tower for scratching, climbing, and playing. Unfortunately buying cat trees in stores can be expensive and not very well made. If you are even the slightest bit handy, you can build one at home for a lot less than retail, which your feline friend will adore.

  1. Building the Tree

    • You can get all the materials needed for your cat tree at one of the bigger lumber and hardware stores. You will need one cedar post, at least 30 inches tall and 4 inches in diameter and a piece of 3/4-inch plywood for the base that is at least 16 inches square. You will also need some sisal rope that is 1/2-inch wide. About one bundle should be enough.

      Start by nailing the sisal rope all the way around the top of cedar post, and then wrap it very tightly around the post all the way to the bottom with no gaps between the rope. When you reach the bottom, nail the rope all the way around the post. Next, nail the post to the base with four heavy duty roofing nails. Hammer them in through the underside of the base and into the four corners of the bottom end of the cedar post. Test the post to make sure it is sturdy and then introduce it to your cat with some catnip or a treat.

    Adding to the Tree

    • You can make your cat tree more complex and more fun by adding a second cedar post that the cats can climb or scratch. Choose a base that is a bit wider, 18 to 24 inches. Buy a second piece of plywood that is about 3 inches wide and 3/4-inch thick and a little taller than the original cedar post. Wrap it in sisal just as you did with the first post and then lean it against the main post at a 45-degree angle. Secure it to the base and the post with nails and check to make sure it is sturdy.

      You can add bells, feathers or other cat toys to the tree to make it more appealing and stimulating to the cat. Feel free to get creative, just make sure it is cat-safe and that all items are attached securely. Always ensure that any nails are completely embedded and that no sharp points are sticking out anywhere.