Did you know that the average store-bought cat tree can cost anywhere from $50 to $200? That’s a big chunk of change for something your cat might ignore after a week!
But don’t worry—if you want to spoil your kitty without breaking the bank, you can easily create your own DIY cat tree at home.
With just a few simple materials and a little creativity, you can make a fun, stylish, and functional tree for your cat that won’t cost a fortune. Let’s look into 10 easy and cheap DIY cat tree ideas that you can start building today.
- Basic Carpeted Cat Tree
- PVC Pipe Playground
- Wooden Crate Cat Tower
- Ladder to Heaven
- Tree Branch Tower
- Bookshelf Cat Tree
- Carpet Tube Tower
- Suitcase Cat Condo
- Cardboard Wonderland
- Hammock Cat Tree
- Bonus Tip
1. Basic Carpeted Cat Tree
Start with a basic design using plywood, a few wooden dowels, and some carpet remnants. This classic design offers stability, and cats love the texture of carpet for scratching. Cut the plywood into a base and platforms, secure the dowels for support, and cover everything with carpet using a staple gun or glue.
Not only will this provide your cat with a place to climb and scratch, but it’ll also save your furniture. PetMD suggests providing various textures for cats to explore, and carpet works perfectly!
2. The PVC Pipe Playground
PVC pipes are cheap and easy to work with, making them ideal for a cat tree structure. Create a multi-level tree using PVC pipes for the frame and connectors to form the base, towers, and perches. Cover the platforms with soft materials like felt or carpet squares for comfort.
You can paint the PVC pipes to match your home decor, making it both functional and decorative. Plus, it’s lightweight and easy to move.
3. The Wooden Crate Cat Tower
Stacking wooden crates on top of each other is one of the simplest ways to build a cat tree. Secure them with screws, nails, or glue, and make sure the structure is sturdy. Cats love to hide, so leave some crates open for them to crawl into.
You can customize this by painting the crates or adding cushions for extra comfort. According to The Humane Society, cats thrive in environments where they have hiding spots and elevated perches.
4. Ladder to Heaven
Got an old ladder lying around? Turn it into a vertical cat playground by securing platforms between the steps. You can add small cushions or carpet to make the surfaces more inviting for your cat. It’s not only unique but also takes up minimal space, making it perfect for smaller homes or apartments.
5. Tree Branch Tower
For a more natural look, use tree branches as the foundation for your cat tree. Secure a large, sturdy branch to a wooden base and add platforms made of plywood or recycled materials. You can wrap the branches with sisal rope for scratching, providing your cat with the perfect mix of nature and functionality.
Cats love climbing real trees, and this design mimics that outdoor experience indoors.
6. Bookshelf Cat Tree
Turn an old bookshelf into a multi-level cat tree by adding different-sized platforms and ramps. Cover some shelves with carpet or sisal for scratching, and add small cushions for cozy nap spots. You can even leave one shelf open for storage, making it a multi-purpose piece of furniture.
This idea is super functional, especially if you’re short on space. Catster recommends giving cats high places to perch so they can survey their surroundings.
7. Carpet Tube Tower
If you can get your hands on an old carpet roll tube, you’ve got the perfect base for a tall cat tree. Attach the tube to a wooden base for stability, then add platforms or perches at various heights. Wrap the entire tube in sisal rope for a giant scratching post that doubles as a climbing tower.
This is a great option for energetic cats who love to climb.
8. Suitcase Cat Condo
Repurpose an old suitcase by turning it into a cozy cat hideaway. Stand the suitcase on its side and add cushions or blankets inside for comfort.
You can also attach small legs or stack two suitcases to create a two-story condo. Your cat will love the cozy, enclosed space, and it gives a fun, vintage vibe to your home.
9. Cardboard Wonderland
Don’t underestimate the power of cardboard! Create a multi-level cat tree by stacking cardboard boxes and cutting holes in them for your cat to climb through. You can reinforce the boxes with duct tape or glue and add cushions or blankets inside for comfort.
This idea is super cheap, easy, and eco-friendly. Plus, cats naturally love cardboard, so you’re guaranteed to have a winner here.
10. Hammock Cat Tree
Combine a wooden frame with a soft hammock to create a relaxing cat tree for lounging. Attach the hammock between two sturdy posts or to the base of your cat tree design. This idea adds variety, offering your cat a unique place to nap that’s different from the usual perches.
Hammocks are great because they cradle your cat in a way that feels safe and secure, mimicking the way they sleep in the wild.
Bonus Tip: Make It Interactive
To keep your cat entertained, add interactive elements to your homemade cat tree. Attach dangling toys, place catnip in small hidden spots, or create puzzle-like areas where they have to “hunt” for treats.
According to Petfinder, keeping your cat mentally and physically stimulated can reduce behavioral issues like scratching or chewing.
Read: Are My Cats Fighting or Just Playing ?
With these 11 easy and cheap DIY cat tree ideas, you’re well on your way to creating a cat paradise right in your home.
Whether you’re using PVC pipes, crates, or even cardboard, there’s a solution for every budget and skill level.
Your cat will love their new play space, and you’ll love the money you saved by building it yourself! Happy crafting!
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