Looking to spoil your feline friend while saving some money and having fun? DIY cat tree plans offer the perfect way to create a custom play space tailored to your cat’s personality and your home’s design.
Whether you’re in a city apartment in Germany, a countryside cottage in the UK, a suburban home in the US, or a cozy flat in Spain, building your own cat tree allows you to add creativity, functionality, and enrichment to your pet’s life. In this guide, we’ll explore plans, materials, safety tips, and style ideas to help you build a stylish, sturdy, and cat-approved tree.
Why Build Your Own Cat Tree?
Customization and Creativity
-
Design to fit your space and décor
-
Add personalized features like hammocks, stairs, or carpet colors
-
Choose the right height for kittens, seniors, or active jumpers
Cost Efficiency
-
Save money compared to store-bought trees
-
Use recycled materials like wood pallets or cardboard
-
Invest only in what matters most—stability and comfort
Cat Wellness Benefits
-
Encourage climbing and stretching
-
Promote mental stimulation and daily exercise
-
Reduce boredom and destructive behavior
Building your own cat tree is rewarding and functional—it’s an expression of love, not just DIY ambition.
Basic Tools and Materials for DIY Cat Tree Plans
Before diving into designs, ensure you have these essentials:
Tools
-
Electric drill
-
Jigsaw or handsaw
-
Measuring tape
-
Staple gun
-
Level and pencil
Materials
-
Plywood or particle board for platforms
-
Sisal rope for scratching posts
-
Carpet remnants or fleece for comfort
-
Wooden dowels or PVC for vertical supports
-
Non-toxic glue, nails, and corner brackets
Sustainability tip: Check local construction reuse stores or online marketplaces for affordable scrap wood.
Beginner-Friendly DIY Cat Tree Plans
One-Level Window Perch Tree
Best for: Kittens, older cats, or window-loving sunbathers
Supplies: Plywood shelf, shelf brackets, soft padding
Steps:
-
Install shelf bracket below your window
-
Cover platform with fleece or carpet
-
Optional: add a small scratching post on the side
This is a great minimalist option for smaller homes or apartments.
Basic Tower with Scratching Post
Best for: Average-sized adult cats
Supplies: Plywood platforms, sisal-wrapped pole, baseboard
Steps:
-
Build a heavy base to avoid tipping
-
Attach vertical support in the center
-
Add one or two platforms at staggered heights
-
Cover platforms with carpet or soft fabric
It’s functional, easy to move, and can be painted to match your interior.
Intermediate DIY Cat Tree Ideas with Multi-Level Fun
Condo Tower with Hideouts
Best for: Multiple-cat households or shy cats
Add-ons: Tunnel tubes, fleece-lined boxes, hanging toys
Steps:
-
Stack enclosed boxes with cut-out entry holes
-
Add bridges or tunnels between levels
-
Anchor tall structures to the wall for extra safety
Ladder Tree with Wall Steps
Best for: Agile, active cats
Add-ons: Wall-mounted steps or climbing shelves
Materials: Repurposed wooden ladder, brackets, fabric cushions
This stylish setup adds vertical territory without taking up floor space.
Advanced DIY Cat Tree Plans for Crafty Owners
Ceiling-High Tree with Hammocks
Best for: Large spaces and adventurous climbers
Features: Floor-to-ceiling tension pole, modular shelves, hanging hammocks
Build Tips:
-
Use plumbing pipes or adjustable poles
-
Secure each shelf with brackets and sisal-wrapped connectors
-
Add a soft hammock at the top level as a lookout spot
The Natural Branch Tree
Best for: Outdoor patios or rustic interiors
Materials: Real tree branches (cleaned and sealed), wooden base, platforms
Style: Boho, nature-inspired, eco-friendly
Seal wood with pet-safe lacquer and make sure branches are free of mold or insects.
Safety Tips When Building a Cat Tree
Stability Is Everything
-
Use wide, heavy bases to prevent wobbling
-
Secure tall trees to walls or ceilings
-
Choose solid wood over flimsy particle board when possible
Cat-Safe Materials
-
Avoid sharp edges, nails sticking out, or small pieces that can be swallowed
-
Use non-toxic glue and finishes
-
Make sure fabrics are tightly secured and washable
Consider Your Cat’s Age and Agility
-
Senior cats may need ramps or gentle steps
-
Kittens need lower platforms to avoid injury
-
Large breeds (like Maine Coons) need wider steps and strong supports
Style and Decor: Match Your Cat Tree to Your Home
You don’t have to sacrifice style for functionality.
Scandinavian Minimalism
-
Light woods, white fleece, clean lines
-
Matches modern homes and apartments
Farmhouse Cozy
-
Reclaimed wood, burlap rope, and fleece
-
Works great in rustic or cottage-style interiors
Urban Jungle
-
Add hanging plants (non-toxic!)
-
Incorporate greens and textures like rattan or jute
A beautiful cat tree becomes part of your decor—and your cat’s favorite place to nap.
Monetize Your DIY Projects
As a pet blog owner, you can turn these DIY cat tree plans into content opportunities:
-
Post step-by-step blog tutorials with affiliate links for tools and materials
-
Create YouTube videos to drive engagement and ad revenue
-
Offer printable plans in exchange for email signups
-
Partner with pet brands for giveaways or product placements
Affiliate suggestion: Link to platforms like Chewy, Amazon, or Zooplus for pet supplies.
FAQs About DIY Cat Tree Plans
How tall should a cat tree be?
Anywhere from 2–6 feet depending on your cat’s age, agility, and space.
What’s the best rope for cat scratching posts?
Sisal rope—it’s durable, affordable, and safe for cats.
Can I use cardboard instead of wood?
Cardboard can work for small features, but it’s not stable for entire trees.
How can I make a cat tree more stable?
Widen the base, use heavy materials, and anchor to the wall.
Are DIY cat trees cheaper than buying one?
Yes—especially when using recycled or leftover materials.
Final Thoughts: Build It, Love It, Climb On It
Creating your own DIY cat tree is more than a weekend project—it’s a heartfelt way to enrich your cat’s daily life. Whether you’re building a simple window perch or an elaborate floor-to-ceiling tower, your feline will appreciate the space, security, and fun.
Plus, with every step you build by hand, you’re crafting more than a tree—you’re building trust, joy, and a deeper bond with your furry friend.
