How To Craft A Stylish Cat Scratching Tower
Best Pet Daily - The height of happiness, a cat atop a scratching tower! (Source: Pexels)
Ah, the age-old tale of cat meets furniture, cat destroys furniture—it’s a story as old as time, or at least as old as the domestication of our feline overlords.
But before you resign yourself to living in a home decorated with shredded sofa corners, why not get crafty?
Today, we’re diving into how you can build a stylish cat scratching tower that not only saves your furniture but also looks so good you might just make your neighbors jealous.
1. Introduction
Overview of the Cat's Need to Scratch
If you’ve ever wondered why your cat seems to think your new couch is their personal manicure station, you’re not alone.
Scratching is a fundamental feline behavior used for stretching, marking territory (both visually and with the scent glands in their paws), and keeping those killer claws sharp for, you know, all their fierce battles... with the invisible bugs on your carpet.
Benefits of a Homemade Scratching Tower
Opting to DIY a cat scratching tower has a plethora of perks.
Cost-effectiveness aside, customizing your cat’s play area means you can match it to your interior decor, ensuring it doesn’t stick out like a sore thumb.
Plus, building it yourself guarantees a sturdier and potentially safer environment tailored to your cat’s size and abilities.
2. Choosing the Right Materials
Types of Materials Needed
When embarking on your cat tower project, selecting the right materials isn't just about durability—it's about cat appeal. Here’s what you’ll generally need:
Wood: The skeleton of your tower. Plywood or solid pine provides a good balance between weight and sturdiness.
Sisal Rope: For wrapping around posts, because cats love its rough texture.
Carpet: Soft, inviting, and perfect for lounging after a rigorous scratching session.
Where to Shop for Quality Supplies
You can find most of these materials at your local hardware store or online.
For wood, you might want to visit a lumber yard for more size options and possibly better prices.
As for sisal rope and carpet remnants, check out your local home improvement stores or even online marketplaces.
3. Tools You’ll Need to Get Started
Basic Tools List
Grab your toolbox, because you’ll need some basic tools:
Saw (for cutting wood to size)
Drill (for assembling pieces together)
Staple gun (for attaching fabric and rope)
Measuring tape and a level (for accuracy and balance)
Safety Gear
Safety first! Don’t forget your goggles and gloves.
Working with wood and tools can be dangerous, and we want this to be a fun project, not a trip to the emergency room.
4. Planning Your Scratching Tower
Design Considerations
Before you cut a single piece of wood, take a moment to plan.
Consider the size of the area where the tower will go and how high your cat likes to climb.
Does your cat enjoy looking out the window, or do they prefer hiding away in cozy corners?
Sketching the Design
Sketch out your design on paper.
It doesn’t have to be a blueprint, but having a visual reference will help greatly during the building process.
Include dimensions and think about where each material will go. It’s like putting together a puzzle—make sure all the pieces fit!
5. Building the Base
Steps to Construct a Sturdy Base
The base of your scratching tower is like the foundation of a house; it needs to be solid.
A heavy, wide base prevents the tower from tipping over.
You can use a thick piece of plywood cut to a size that provides stability and surface area for your cat to stand on.
Choosing the Right Dimensions
A good rule of thumb is to make the base at least 24 inches by 24 inches.
If you plan on a taller structure, you might want to increase these dimensions to keep everything balanced.
6. Assembling the Frame
Instructions for a Stable Structure
Now, let’s build up!
Using the dimensions from your sketch, cut your wood pieces to size.
Assemble them using screws for strength—nails might give you a shaky result, and we don’t want any wobbly surprises.
Tips for Making It Durable
Ensure that all connections are tight and reinforced.
You might want to add corner brackets for extra stability, especially if you’re going for height.
Remember, the goal is to create a safe and secure playground for your furry friend.
7. Wrapping It Up with Sisal Rope
Why Sisal?
Sisal rope is not only durable but also has a rough texture that cats love to dig their claws into.
It helps them shed the outer layer of their claws, keeping them sharp and healthy.
Techniques for Wrapping
Start from the bottom of your posts and work your way up, making sure to wrap the rope tightly around.
Use a staple gun to secure both the start and end of the rope to the post.
Overlap each layer slightly to prevent your cat from pulling up the end of the rope during their enthusiastic scratch sessions.
8. Adding the Platforms
Designing Multiple Levels
Cats love to climb and survey their kingdom from high vantage points, so incorporating multiple levels into your tower is a must.
Each platform can vary in size, giving your cat the thrill of jumping from one level to another.
Use sturdy plywood for these platforms and ensure each is well supported by the frame underneath.
Securing Platforms Safely
Attach each platform to the frame using screws.
For extra security, brackets can reinforce the connection.
Make sure there are no sharp edges or loose materials; sand down any rough patches that could snag your cat's fur or harm them.
Prefer to get ideas from videos… quite separate to our instructions, check out this YouTube video on all steps to make a cat tower from scratch!
9. Incorporating Fun Elements
Ideas for Hanging Toys
To make the scratching tower even more entertaining, add some toys!
Hanging a rope or a few fuzzy balls from the upper platforms can provide hours of batting fun.
Securely fasten these toys to endure the enthusiastic play.
Using Catnip
Sprinkle some catnip on the platforms or incorporate catnip pouches in the carpets to entice your cat to explore their new tower.
Catnip is a safe and irresistible treat for many cats, which can be especially helpful in encouraging them to use the tower.
10. Covering with Fabric
Choosing Cat-Friendly Fabrics
When it comes to choosing fabric for the tower, opt for durable and soft options like heavy-duty cotton or microfiber.
These materials are not only comfortable for lounging but also easy to clean.
Attaching Fabric Without Hassles
Use a staple gun to attach the fabric to the wood, pulling it tight to avoid any loose ends where your cat could get their claws stuck. Wrap the fabric around each platform and the base for a neat finish.
11. Final Touches
Stain or Paint?
If you want to stain or paint the wood, choose non-toxic products safe for pets.
This step should be done before attaching the fabric and toys, and ensure the paint or stain is completely dry before letting your cat near.
Decorative Elements to Match Your Décor
Add some personal touches to make the tower blend in with or stand out in your home decor.
Maybe stencil some designs or use decorative nails for a chic look. The sky's the limit!
12. Safety Checks and Adjustments
Inspecting for Loose Parts
Before introducing your cat to the new tower, inspect it thoroughly for any potential hazards like loose screws or staples.
Make sure everything is secure and stable.
Stability Tests
Give the tower a good shake to ensure it doesn’t wobble.
If it does, you may need to adjust the base or add more support to the structure.
13. Introducing Your Cat to the New Tower
Encouraging First Use
Place the tower in a part of your home where your cat spends a lot of time.
You can encourage them to climb by placing treats on the various levels or using a laser pointer to lead them up.
Observing Their Behavior
Watch how your cat interacts with the tower.
Some cats may be hesitant at first but don’t worry—curiosity usually wins.
14. Maintenance Tips
Cleaning Recommendations
Vacuum the tower regularly to remove hair and dirt.
If the fabric covers are removable, wash them according to the fabric care instructions.
When to Replace Parts
Check the tower periodically for wear and tear, especially the parts covered in sisal rope or fabric.
Be prepared to replace these elements as needed to keep the tower safe and attractive.
15. Conclusion
Building a cat scratching tower is more than just crafting a plaything; it’s about creating a safe and engaging space for your beloved pet.
With the right tools, materials, and a bit of creativity, you can construct a stylish and functional tower that your cat will love and you’ll be proud to display.
Plus, it's a great way to channel your inner craftsman and bond with your feline friend.
Don’t forget to share your creation on social media or cat forums—your DIY success might just inspire others!
P.S. Does the tower sound a bit too much for you? Want something low maintenance that’s almost foolproof to make… but still oh-so effective for our feline friends… check out the “How to” Video below…
FAQs
What is the best wood to use for a cat scratching tower?
The best wood to use is typically plywood or solid pine as they offer a good balance between durability and weight. Avoid any wood treated with chemicals.
How often should I replace the sisal rope on my cat tower?
Replace the sisal rope once it shows signs of fraying or when it becomes too smooth for your cat to scratch effectively. This usually happens every few years depending on how actively your cat uses it.
Can I add more levels to the cat tower later?
Yes, you can add more levels as long as the base is stable enough to support the additional weight and size. Make sure each new level is securely attached to prevent any accidents.
Is it safe to use carpet remnants for the cat tower?
Yes, carpet remnants are safe and cost-effective for covering the platforms of a cat tower. Just ensure the carpet does not have any loose threads or harmful chemicals.
What should I do if my cat isn't interested in the new tower?
Try placing the tower in a different location where your cat spends more time. Incorporating more of their favorite toys or sprinkling catnip on the tower can also help spark their interest.
