How to Make a Cat Bed From a Computer Monitor

Recycling your old computer monitor isn't just good for the environment, it can give your cat a brand new home too. If you have an old computer monitor lying around the house, you can save money on purchasing a cat bed, just by making a few adjustments to the monitor. You will need to be careful removing the monitor's components, especially if you have used it recently. However, once the monitor is empty, you can transform it into a cat paradise.

Things You'll Need

  • Computer monitor
  • Screwdriver
  • High voltage probe
  • Digital multimeter (not auto-ranging)
  • High wattage resistor
  • Crocodile clip
  • Blanket
  • Screws
  • Cat toys
  • String
  • Paint (optional)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Disconnect your monitor from any power source or electrical equipment. Turn the monitor upside-down and remove the stand at the bottom using the screwdriver.

    • 2

      Lay the monitor on its front and unscrew all of the screws you can find. Depending on the size and shape of the monitor, you may find screws on both the front and back. Set the screws aside, as you will need them later.

    • 3

      Remove the outer casing carefully, so that the inner circuitry is exposed. Locate the cathode ray tube. This should be directly behind your computer screen. Attach the high voltage probe and multimeter to it, using the crocodile clip. If the voltage reads 0 -- you don't have to do anything, and can start removing the inner components.

    • 4

      Discharge the cathode ray tube (CRT), if the voltage meter reads higher than 0. Static electricity can remain in a monitor for several months after they have been used, so this step is important for your safety. You can discharge the CRT using a high wattage resistor and grounding it, using a chassis on the ground next to the monitor.

    • 5

      Remove the inner components once you have discharged the CRT. If you want to keep them for later use, then remove them using the screwdriver. However, if you aren't going to keep them, you don't have to be so careful. Once you have removed the components, dispose of them safely. Finally, remove the clips and screws holding the screen in place, and carefully remove the screen.

    • 6

      Clean the outer casing using hot soapy water. Replace the casing once you have ensured the monitor is empty, and screw it back together. You should now have a hollow monitor with no screen.

    • 7

      Paint the monitor, if you want to decorate it for your cat. Only use paint on the outside, and let it dry for at least 24 hours, before allowing your cat to touch it.

    • 8

      Customize the box for your cat. Put a blanket in the bottom and put the monitor in a suitable place for your cat to sleep. You can also create a miniature playpen for your cat by tying string around its toys and hanging them at the entrance.