How to Build a Natural Cat Tree

Cats love to climb and they love to perch up high so they can watch everything going on around them. House cats need plenty of things to occupy their time so they don't get bored. Building a natural tree for them to climb on is something your cats will love. Look for sturdy branches at least 4 inches in diameter at the base. Don't use damaged of decaying wood and check the branches carefully to be sure you aren't bringing bugs into your house.

Things You'll Need

  • 2 large branches, at least 4-inch diameter
  • Soap, water and bleach
  • Scrub brush
  • Paint brush
  • Varnish
  • Bucket or waste basket
  • Small bag of cement
  • Saw
  • Scrap plywood
  • Drill and 1 1/2-inch screws
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Instructions

    • 1

      Scrub the branches with a brush and soapy water with bleach. Rinse them and allow them to dry. Seal the branches by painting them with clear varnish.

    • 2

      Choose a bucket or waste basket big enough to hold the branches without tipping over. Mix cement according to the package instructions and fill the bucket about two-thirds full. Insert the bottoms of the branches into the cement and hold in place as the cement sets.

    • 3

      Cut off small branches less than 2 inches in diameter, leaving only branches sturdy enough to hold your cat's weight. Cut scrap plywood into perches at least 12 by 18 inches. Cut a perch for each of your cats.

    • 4

      Stagger the location of the perches so cats can climb up easily. Set each perch in place on a branch, supporting it against one or two other branches as well. Screw the perch into place with several screws.