How to Make a Rustic Cat Tree

A rustic cat tree can provide endless entertainment for domestic cats. Making one takes time and concentration, but the end result is very worthwhile. With a few tree branches, small pieces of wood and some fabric, you can create a multi-tiered toy in which your cats can climb, jump and play. Rustic cat trees can also be tailored with a little creativity to your taste as well as your cat's needs.

Things You'll Need

  • Dry, hard tree branches
  • Stiff brush
  • Square pieces of wood
  • Fabric (carpet or fleece)
  • Table saw or circular saw
  • Drill
  • Screws (number dependent on the number of platforms desired)
  • Staples
  • Staple gun
  • Glue
  • Adhesive-backed velcro
  • String
  • Long toy
  • Hemp, rope or sisal
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Search a wooded area for a suitable tree branch to form the largest pole of your cat tree. Ideal branches will be between two and six inches in diameter, and will be dry, hard and resistant to splintering. These factors will ensure that your cat tree is stable and safe for your cat to use. Choose a thicker branch if your cat is large or very active. It should be as long as you wish your cat tree to be tall. Do not cut a branch from a tree, but find one that is on the ground and is sturdy and dry. Clean the branches thoroughly before bringing them into your home to remove insects and fungi, which can infect your cat or infest your home.

    • 2

      Collect several more branches to support platforms on the tree. These should be of similar quality to the main branch and strong enough to support your cat's weight.

    • 3

      Create a base for the cat tree. Cut a piece of wood into a square large enough to support the branch without wobbling. Usually a square measuring two feet by two feet will provide enough stability. Weight the base with an additional piece of wood if the tree seems like it needs additional support at the bottom. Cover the top and sides of the base with a fabric like carpet or fleece. Attach the material to the wood using staples, glue or carpet tacks.

    • 4

      Attach the branch to the base by first cutting the bottom of the branch flat. Drill at least four holes through the base where the branch will rest. Hold the branch upright while driving screws through the holes, attaching the base and branch until the fit is tight.

    • 5

      Screw smaller branches into the large one wherever platforms will be placed. Arrange them so they are not directly on top of each other to make navigation easier for your cat. Be sure the branches are secured tightly to the main branch.

    • 6

      Create platforms by cutting pieces of wood into squares, then cover them in fabric as you did the base. Then, attach them to the tree by screwing them tightly onto the smaller branches. Follow with at least four screws to secure each platform to the main branch for added stability.

    • 7

      Add touches that will entertain your cat, like attaching string or a long toy to a platform. By also winding hemp, rope or sisal around the base of the cat tree you can create an area for scratching.

    • 8

      Secure the tree in an accessible spot. A corner is best, as it's supported by two walls. For added support, use velcro with adhesive backs to attach the base of the tree to the floor, or platforms on the tree to the wall.