Cats are not just pets; they’re family. And if you’re a cat parent, you know how important it is to create a space where your feline friend can explore, scratch, climb, and relax. DIY cat towers are an excellent way to give your cat a personal space without breaking the bank. Plus, these projects allow you to add a personal touch and design something that complements your home.
Whether you’re working with limited space, a tight budget, or just want to create something unique, this list of 23 DIY cat tower ideas has something for every cat lover.
Let’s jump into these ideas
1. Simple PVC Cat Tower
PVC pipes might not be the first material that comes to mind when thinking about cat towers, but they’re a great option if you’re looking for a quick, cost-effective solution. A PVC cat tower is sturdy, customizable, and easy to assemble.
To make one, you’ll need PVC pipes of different lengths, elbows, T-joints, and pipe cutters. The beauty of this design is that you can create various levels and shapes, ensuring it fits perfectly in your space. This design is particularly good if you want a minimalistic structure or if you prefer a design that’s easy to move and adjust.
Wrap the PVC pipes with sisal rope to encourage scratching, and add a few small platforms or hammocks for lounging. You can paint the pipes to match your home decor or leave them in their natural form for a more industrial look.
The best part? PVC cat towers are lightweight, making them easy to disassemble and move around. This DIY project is ideal for people who are just starting with cat tower construction or those with limited tools.
2. Multi-Level Cardboard Tower
Who doesn’t love a good cardboard project? Not only is this one of the most budget-friendly options, but it also allows you to reuse boxes and materials you probably already have lying around. A multi-level cardboard tower is ideal for cats who love to climb and perch in high places.
To create this tower, stack several sturdy cardboard boxes and secure them together using hot glue or duct tape. You can cut windows or doors in the boxes to give your cat a variety of entry and exit points. Add some soft, cozy fabric to the inside for comfort, and voilà – a multi-level cat tower that your feline will love.
While cardboard doesn’t last as long as wood or sisal, it’s an excellent choice for a temporary cat tower or one you can easily replace when it starts to wear out. This design is also easy to customize, so feel free to get creative with shapes and add fun elements like tunnels or ramps.
3. Sisal-Wrapped Wooden Cat Tree
If you’re looking for a more traditional cat tree, a sisal-wrapped wooden cat tower is a fantastic option. Sisal is an excellent material for scratching, so your cat will appreciate the opportunity to dig their claws into the sturdy structure. Plus, wood offers a natural, elegant look that fits in well with most home decor.
To build this tower, start with wooden boards or planks. You can get creative with the design, adding platforms of varying heights for climbing and lounging. Use a staple gun to wrap the wooden posts with sisal rope, securing it tightly so your cat has plenty of scratching opportunities.
For extra comfort, you can add soft cushions or blankets to the platforms. This DIY project takes a little more time and effort than others, but the result is a durable and attractive cat tower that will last for years.
4. Repurposed Furniture Cat Tower
One of the best ways to create a stylish and functional cat tower is by repurposing old furniture. Do you have a bookshelf, dresser, or cabinet gathering dust in your garage or attic? Turn it into a cat tower!
Start by selecting a piece of furniture that’s sturdy enough to support your cat’s weight and provide enough space for climbing and lounging. You may need to remove some shelves or add new ones, but this is a relatively simple process.
To make it more feline-friendly, add sisal rope to the posts or edges for scratching, and place soft bedding on the surfaces where your cat will rest. You can even create a cozy hideaway by placing a box or fabric cubby inside the piece of furniture. This design is not only practical but also makes for a chic addition to your living room or bedroom.
5. Wall-Mounted Cat Shelves
If you’re working with limited floor space, wall-mounted cat shelves are the perfect solution. These shelves provide vertical space for your cat to climb and perch, which is great for their physical and mental stimulation.
To create a set of wall-mounted shelves, you’ll need sturdy wooden planks and brackets. Install the brackets on your walls, ensuring they are securely anchored into studs. Then, attach the wooden planks to the brackets to create a series of floating shelves. Arrange them at varying heights to give your cat different levels to explore.
For a more creative design, you can use decorative brackets or repurpose old shelves for a rustic or vintage look. Wall-mounted shelves are a sleek way to give your cat a jungle gym without taking up too much space in your home.
6. Carpeted Cat Tower
For a cozy and soft cat tower, consider using carpet as your primary material. A carpeted cat tower provides a comfortable surface for your cat to sleep, scratch, and climb, and the texture is easy on their paws.
To create a carpeted tower, start with a wooden frame and build out different levels. You can use either adhesive or a staple gun to attach carpet to the surfaces, making sure each layer is securely in place. You can also add sisal rope to the posts for additional scratching spots.
This DIY cat tower is perfect for older cats or those who love to nap in soft spaces. If you want to add a little flair, you can mix and match different carpet colors or textures to create a one-of-a-kind design.
7. Tree Branch Cat Tower
If you’re looking to bring a natural touch to your home, a tree branch cat tower is an excellent option. This design allows you to use actual tree branches as the structure for your tower, creating a unique and rustic look.
Start by gathering a few thick, sturdy branches. You can use branches from your own backyard or purchase them from a craft store. Secure the branches to a wooden base, and then arrange them in various positions to create levels and perches for your cat. You can add sisal rope to certain sections for scratching.
For a more polished look, you can paint the branches in your favorite color or leave them natural for a more earthy feel. This design is ideal for cat lovers who enjoy a more organic, nature-inspired aesthetic.
8. Cat Tower with Hammock
Every cat deserves a cozy place to nap, and what better way to provide that than with a hammock incorporated into your DIY cat tower? Hammocks offer a comfy, snuggly spot for your cat to rest and relax, and they’re incredibly easy to make.
To add a hammock to your cat tower, simply attach a fabric sling or hammock to a sturdy frame. You can use fabric that’s both durable and soft, like canvas or cotton, and make sure it’s taut enough to support your cat’s weight. Hang the hammock between two wooden posts or between shelves, and place soft bedding inside for extra comfort.
This design is perfect for cats who love to sleep in elevated spots and provides them with a comfortable, secure place to curl up.
9. Modular Cat Tower System
For multi-cat households or those who like to switch up their home’s layout, a modular cat tower system is an ideal solution. This flexible design allows you to create a custom structure that can be expanded or modified as needed.
You’ll need interlocking wooden pieces or plastic connectors to build the system. Start by creating a simple base with a few platforms, and then add additional sections as you see fit. This design can grow over time as your cats’ needs change, and you can arrange the modules in different shapes to fit your available space.
Modular systems are great because they allow you to personalize the tower by adding ramps, tunnels, and extra levels. Plus, they can be rearranged easily if you move or want to update the design.
10. Boho-Inspired Cat Tower
For the cat lover with a flair for the bohemian aesthetic, a boho-inspired cat tower is the perfect DIY project. Think macrame, plants, and eclectic decor that complements your home’s free-spirited vibe.
Start with a simple wooden frame, and then add layers of macrame to create a unique, textured look. You can also incorporate hanging plants or colorful fabrics for a more boho-chic feel. Make sure to include comfortable perches and hidden nooks where your cat can relax.
This design is ideal for those who want to combine style and function, creating a statement piece that both you and your cat will love.
11. Scratching Post & Tower Combo
If your cat loves to scratch, why not combine a scratching post with a tower? This hybrid design provides both the functionality of a scratching post and the elevated spaces cats crave.
Begin by building a simple wooden base and then add a tall scratching post made from sisal rope. Attach a few platforms at different heights to create a multi-level structure. This design is perfect for saving space while providing your cat with everything it needs.
You can further personalize the tower by adding soft cushions or blankets for lounging areas. This combination of a scratching post and cat tower helps keep your furniture safe and gives your cat a designated space to scratch.
12. Recycled Wood Cat Tower
For an eco-friendly and stylish option, consider building your cat tower from recycled wood. Using repurposed materials not only helps the environment but also gives your cat a unique, one-of-a-kind tower that adds character to your home.
Start by collecting old wooden furniture or pallets that you no longer need. Sand the surfaces to remove rough edges, and then build a simple tower by attaching the planks together. You can add sisal rope for scratching and soft cushions for lounging.
This eco-friendly DIY cat tower is perfect for those who love to repurpose materials and create something functional and beautiful for their cats.
13. Cat Tower with Multiple Platforms
A multi-platform cat tower is ideal for energetic cats who love to jump, climb, and explore. This type of tower provides a variety of perches at different heights, allowing your cat to move around freely and satisfy their natural instincts.
To create this design, start with a sturdy base and build platforms that vary in size. The platforms can be simple wooden boards or repurposed materials like old shelves or pallets. Secure each platform to the base, ensuring that they are stable enough to support your cat’s weight. For added fun, you can connect the platforms with ramps or bridges, creating an interactive climbing experience.
Adding soft fabric or carpeting to each platform can make the tower extra comfortable, and placing a few hiding spots or tunnels will offer your cat a cozy space to retreat to.
14. Interactive Puzzle Cat Tower
Cats are intelligent creatures that love to engage in problem-solving. If you want to provide your cat with a mental challenge, an interactive puzzle cat tower is a great choice. This design combines a cat tower with interactive elements that will keep your cat entertained and stimulated.
To create a puzzle cat tower, use a combination of different compartments, sliding panels, or secret doors. For example, you can hide treats inside certain sections of the tower that your cat needs to figure out how to open. Adding ramps, platforms, and tunnels will make the puzzle even more engaging, giving your cat plenty of opportunities to explore and work for their rewards.
This type of tower is perfect for active, curious cats who enjoy discovering new ways to interact with their environment.
15. Elegant Floating Cat Tower
If you’re looking for a sleek, modern look, a floating cat tower might be just what you need. This minimalist design features shelves or perches that appear to be floating on the wall, creating a contemporary and stylish cat tower without taking up precious floor space.
To make a floating cat tower, install brackets that are hidden from view, creating the illusion that the shelves are floating. Use sturdy materials like wood or acrylic for the shelves, and arrange them at varying heights to create an interesting visual effect. You can add sisal-wrapped posts or a few cozy nooks for lounging.
Floating cat towers are ideal for modern homes where space is limited and for owners who appreciate clean, stylish design.
16. Cat Tower with Storage
For those looking to maximize their space and minimize clutter, a cat tower with built-in storage is an excellent solution. This design allows you to combine your cat’s playground with useful storage compartments for toys, blankets, or other pet accessories.
You can start by creating a tower with a sturdy base, and then add storage drawers or cubby holes underneath the platforms. These compartments can be used for storing cat-related items or even as cozy hideaways for your cat. To keep everything neat, you can add decorative baskets or bins to the storage areas.
This type of cat tower is perfect for smaller homes or apartments where space-saving solutions are essential.
17. Cozy Cat Hideaway Tower
Some cats love to have a space to hide and retreat to when they need peace and quiet. A cozy cat hideaway tower provides a secure, secluded spot where your cat can rest without feeling exposed.
To create a hideaway tower, build a solid base with several levels, but make sure one of the platforms features a covered space. You can design a small, enclosed room using wood, fabric, or even a repurposed cardboard box. Adding soft bedding inside will make this space extra cozy and inviting for your cat.
If you have a more introverted cat, this type of tower will become their personal haven, providing a safe space away from other pets or noise in the home.
18. Outdoor Cat Tower
If you’re fortunate enough to have a backyard or patio, an outdoor cat tower is an excellent way to provide your feline with an enriched environment. Outdoor cat towers give your cat the opportunity to enjoy fresh air and natural surroundings while staying safe from outdoor dangers.
Start with weather-resistant materials like treated wood, plastic, or metal. Be sure to secure the tower firmly to the ground or a structure like a fence to prevent it from tipping over. You can create a multi-level structure with platforms for climbing, lounging, and perching.
For added comfort, include covered spots for shade, and consider using weatherproof fabrics for cushions. This outdoor cat tower is ideal for adventurous cats who love the outdoors but need to stay protected.
19. Cat Tower with Heated Pads
If you live in a colder climate, your cat might appreciate a heated cat tower. Adding heated pads to your DIY cat tower will ensure that your feline stays warm and cozy during the colder months.
To create a heated tower, start with a regular design and add heated pads to one or more of the platforms. You can purchase affordable pet-safe heating pads online or at pet stores. Be sure to position the heated pads so that your cat can easily reach them without being too close to any electrical components.
This type of tower is perfect for older cats or cats with thin coats who need extra warmth during the winter. Just be sure to check the heating pads regularly for safety.
20. Eco-Friendly Cat Tower
For environmentally conscious cat owners, an eco-friendly cat tower is a fantastic DIY project. You can use sustainable materials such as reclaimed wood, cardboard, and non-toxic paints to build a cat tower that’s both safe for your cat and kind to the planet.
Start by sourcing reclaimed wood from old furniture, pallets, or scrap wood. Sand it down to remove any rough edges and build your tower frame. You can also use recycled cardboard for some of the platforms or climbing surfaces.
To make the tower even more eco-friendly, use natural fabrics like cotton or hemp for cushions and wraps. This sustainable design is a great way to reduce waste and provide your cat with a stylish and functional tower.
21. Vintage Style Cat Tower
If you love vintage or retro-inspired decor, consider building a vintage-style cat tower. This design can incorporate old furniture, unique patterns, and retro colors to create a charming and nostalgic look.
You can repurpose an old chair, cabinet, or bookshelf into a cat tower, adding layers of sisal, fabric, and soft cushions for comfort. Try to find vintage elements that complement your home’s overall aesthetic, such as floral fabrics or mid-century modern designs.
This cat tower is perfect for those who want to create a playful, yet elegant space for their cat while celebrating the charm of vintage decor.
22. Pallet Cat Tower
Pallets are an affordable and versatile material for DIY projects, and they work great for building a cat tower. A pallet cat tower is not only budget-friendly, but it also adds a rustic charm to your home.
To create a pallet cat tower, start with one or more pallets and stack them vertically. You can leave the pallets as-is for a more industrial look, or you can sand and paint them to match your home decor. Add soft cushions or carpet to the surfaces for comfort, and use sisal rope on the posts for scratching.
This design is simple, sturdy, and customizable, making it a great option for anyone looking for a functional and rustic cat tower.
23. Cat Tower with Hidden Tunnel
If you have a playful cat who loves to explore, a cat tower with hidden tunnels is the perfect DIY project. Tunnels add an element of surprise and adventure, creating a more dynamic cat tower experience.
You can create tunnels by using PVC pipes, fabric tubes, or even cardboard. Attach the tunnels between different platforms or use them as passageways between separate sections of the tower. Adding multiple entrances or exits will encourage your cat to explore every inch of the tower.
This interactive design keeps your cat mentally stimulated and provides them with a fun, secretive place to retreat to.
Conclusion
Creating a DIY cat tower is a fantastic way to enrich your cat’s life, encourage exercise, and provide a safe, comfortable space for them to enjoy. From simple PVC towers to eco-friendly designs, the possibilities are endless. These 23 DIY cat tower ideas can be tailored to suit your home, budget, and your cat’s unique personality.
Whether you’re looking for something functional, stylish, or interactive, these projects offer a range of options to meet your needs. Remember, the key to a great cat tower is creativity and understanding your cat’s preferences. With a little effort and some ingenuity, you can create a one-of-a-kind cat tower that both you and your feline friend will love.
Happy building, and here’s to spoiling your kitty with the perfect cat tower!
