QA

How To Build Your Own Cat Tree

What material is used for cat trees?

Carpet, fabric and sisal rope are all popular options. Carpet is durable and cats like it, but it can be tricky to work with. Fabric may tear quickly, but when you stick cotton batting beneath it on a platform, it makes a comfy place for cats to nap.

What can I use instead of a cat tree?

Hammocks for Cats A cat hammock is a great alternative to the traditional cat tree. It allows your cat to not only jump but also relax and swing—which some cats really enjoy.

How tall should a cat tree be?

Ideally, a cat tree should be 5-6 feet: Tall enough to climb, but short enough not to overpower its surroundings. A good cat tree should also be able to keep your cat occupied. Make sure yours is equipped with a scratching post, a bed, and condos.

What is the best material for a scratching post?

Sisal material, not sisal rope, is the best cat scratching substrate. It doesn’t catch cats’ claws, is rough, and holds up well to intense scratching. Learn more here: “Sisal Fabric: the Best Material for Cat Scratching Posts.”.

What kind of carpet do you use for a cat tree?

Sisal Carpet Sisal is considered to be one of the most durable materials available for carpeting, which makes it a great option for covering a cat tree. Additionally, sisal is a natural fiber, so it’s sustainable, renewable, and doesn’t have a negative impact on the environment.

Can I make my own cat tree?

Make a Basic Cat Tree A basic cat tree isn’t hard to make and doesn’t have to be expensive. Build a sturdy base that won’t tip over by making it larger than the platform. Cut two sheets of plywood to your desired size and glue them together for a heavier base. A 24-inch square is a good size, but you can go bigger.

Is a cat tree necessary?

The best cat trees promote exercise, giving your kitty a safe place to leap, climb, scratch, jump and play—one that’s not your furniture, counters or cabinetry. (That alone is worth major bonus points.) They also provide a safe and cozy place for your cat to relax, lounge or nap.

Do cat trees need to be tall?

9.1 – 9.8 in.

How tall should a cat scratching post be?

For a horizontal scratcher, we recommend that it be at least as long as your cat’s body minus the tail, which averages 18 inches. And a vertical scratcher should be 30 to 32 inches tall so that cats can stand on their hind legs and stretch.

Where is the best place to put a cat tree?

Where to put your cat’s cat tree. A cat tree provides your cat with a place for playing, resting and for watching over their territory. Ideally, it should be installed in a spacious room and in a spot from which they can have as broad a view as possible.

What kind of rope do you use for a cat scratching post?

Many cat scratching posts are covered with sisal rope, but sisal fabric is a better option. As a cat scratches at the rope, its fibers become dislodged and are sharp. This will dissuade the cat from continuing to use the post. Conversely, sisal fabric becomes softer as it is scratched, encouraging more and more use.

What type of fabric will cats not scratch?

Microfiber, also called microsuede, ultrasuede or faux suede, is one of the most popular materials used on sofas and chairs. The density of the material gives it the ability to stand up to a cat’s abusive claws, which also tends to make it less appealing to scratch on.

Do cats like jute or sisal?

Cats love woven sisal due to its rough texture. Scratching posts made from woven sisal have a more resistant surface, which makes scratching more challenging – and fun! – for the cat. They are also more durable, which means your scratching post won’t shred and the fabric won’t come apart.

What is the best carpet when you have cats?

The best carpets for cat are polyester, nylon, berber and frieze carpets becasue they’re both stain-resistant and claw-proof. They will last longer than any other carpet type. And they’re surprisingly not very expensive.

What is sisal carpet?

Like many natural fiber carpets, sisal has a distinctive tan, beige, and creamy white color that naturally comes from the plant fibers it’s made of. These fibers are woven into a natural looking fabric that is mildly neutral and will fit with nearly any décor. Sisal is a low maintenance carpet and rug option.

How do you make a cat tree out of a tree branch?

And here are the DIY cat tree plans! Step 1: Scrape, sand, and finish the branches. Step 2: Attach the branches to the base and finish the base. Step 3: Create and install the scratching posts. Step 4: Create the platforms. Step 5: Install the platforms. Step 6: Add finishing touches!.

Why are cat trees so expensive?

High-quality materials will be no good without a solid structure that binds everything together. The second reason why a cat tree is expensive is because of the deep thought and planning that goes into making its structure. It needs to be made of steel that will bear the weight of several cats at once.

What kind of glue is safe to use on cat trees?

Your best option is going to be Elmer’s Wood Glue. Most cat trees are made of wood and the bond this glue creates is super strong whether you’re using it for the sisal rope or the carpet. It’s also non-toxic and easy to clean up but you should still avoid allowing cats to eat it.

Why do cats need a cat tree?

Cats love to be up high where they have a great view of everything going on in the home. Most cat trees have high perches where your cat can curl up, feel safe and get away from that horrible dog! Having the structure near a window also gives them a great nature channel to watch while home alone.