Build a custom plywood cat tree easily! This guide breaks down the process into simple steps, helping you create a durable, fun, and safe haven for your feline friend using affordable plywood. Perfect for beginners.
Hey there, fellow DIY enthusiasts and cat lovers! Jack Shaffer here, and if you’ve ever looked at those pricey cat trees in the pet store and thought, “I could totally build that,” then you’re in the right place. Building your own cat tree out of plywood is not only a rewarding woodworking project but also a fantastic way to save some cash while creating something uniquely tailored to your furry companion. We’ll ditch the confusing instructions and get straight to building, step-by-step. Get ready to surprise your cat with a sturdy, custom-made play palace!
Table of Contents
Why Build a Plywood Cat Tree?
Cats need vertical space. It’s in their DNA! Having a place to climb, perch, scratch, and survey their kingdom makes them feel safe and secure. Store-bought cat trees can be expensive, and often, they aren’t quite the right size or style for your home or your cat’s personality. That’s where building your own comes in. Plywood is a fantastic material for this project because it’s strong, relatively inexpensive, and easy to work with, even for beginners. Plus, you get to choose exactly how it looks and functions!
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Before we grab our tools, let’s make sure we have everything we need. Think of this as your pre-flight checklist. Having all your supplies ready makes the building process much smoother.
Here’s a rundown of what you’ll need:
Plywood: At least one 4×8 sheet of 3/4-inch thick plywood. You might need an additional smaller sheet for smaller platforms or accents. Birch or poplar plywood offers a nice finish, but utility-grade plywood works just fine for the structure.
Screws: 1 1/2-inch wood screws for assembly.
Wood Glue: For extra strong joints.
Carpet Remnants or Sisal Rope: For scratching surfaces and lounging areas. Ask local carpet stores for scraps!
Heavy-Duty Stapler or Upholstery Staples: To attach carpet.
Sandpaper: 120-grit and 220-grit for smooth edges.
Wood Filler (Optional): To fill any screw holes or imperfections.
For Tools:
Safety Gear: Safety glasses are a must! Gloves can also be helpful.
Measuring Tape: For accurate cuts.
Pencil: To mark your measurements.
Circular Saw or Jigsaw: For cutting the plywood panels. A jigsaw is great for curves.
Drill/Driver: For pre-drilling holes and driving screws.
Drill Bits: One for pre-drilling and a countersink bit if you want screw heads flush.
Clamps: To hold pieces together while gluing and screwing.
Sander (Orbital or Palm): To smooth edges and surfaces.
Utility Knife: For trimming carpet excess.
Level: To ensure your platforms are straight.
Designing Your Plywood Cat Tree
This is where the fun begins! Think about your cat. Are they a climber? A lounger? A scratcher? Sketch out a design that caters to their habits.
Considerations for Your Design:
Height: Taller is usually better for a “lookout” feel.
Platforms: Vary the size and placement. Cats love different spots at different heights.
Enclosed Spaces: Boxes or cubbies offer a sense of security.
Scratching Posts: Integrate sisal rope wrapped around structural supports.
Stability: A wider, heavier base is crucial for safety, especially for taller trees.
Here’s a basic design idea to get you started. You can adapt this to fit your space and your cat’s preferences.
Basic Design Elements:
Base: A large, sturdy square or rectangle (e.g., 24″ x 24″).
Support Columns: Vertical pieces of plywood that connect the base to upper platforms. These can be solid panels or reinforced box structures.
Platforms: Various sizes to allow jumping and resting.
Top Perch: A favorite spot for surveying their domain.
A Box/Hideaway: For napping and feeling safe.
Step-by-Step: Building Your Plywood Cat Tree
Now, let’s get our hands dirty! We’ll go through this process one manageable step at a time. Take your time, measure twice (or thrice!), and cut once.
Step 1: Cut Your Plywood Pieces
Based on your design sketch, measure and mark your plywood. Remember the old carpenter’s adage: “Measure twice, cut once.”
Base: Cut one large square or rectangle (e.g., 24″ x 24″).
Support Panels: Cut vertical panels. These will connect your platforms and create height. You might have two wider ones for the main structure and narrower ones for added support or to create cubbies.
Platforms: Cut various sizes – larger ones for lounging, smaller ones for jumping between.
Box Panels (if applicable): Cut sides, top, and bottom for any enclosed spaces.
Example Cut List (For a moderately sized tree):
| Part | Quantity | Dimensions (inches) | Notes |
| :———- | :——- | :—————— | :————————————- |
| Base | 1 | 24 x 24 | Thickest plywood recommended |
| Main Supports | 2 | 10 x 30 | Wider panels for main structure |
| Side Supports| 2 | 8 x 30 | Narrower panels for stability/design |
| Platforms | 3 | 12 x 16 | Various sizes for perching |
| Top Perch | 1 | 14 x 14 | |
| Box Side | 2 | 10 x 10 | For a simple cubby |
| Box Top/Bottom| 2 | 10 x 10 | |
| Box Back | 1 | 10 x 10 | |
Step 2: Sand All Edges and Surfaces
Before assembly, it’s much easier to sand. Use your 120-grit sandpaper to smooth out any rough edges or splinters from your cuts. Then, follow up with 220-grit for a finished feel. This is important for your cat’s safety and comfort. Smooth surfaces prevent snags on fur and paws.
Step 3: Assemble the Base and First Supports
It’s time to start building the foundation. Take your base piece. Position your main support panels vertically on the base.
1. Apply Wood Glue: Spread a thin layer of wood glue along the bottom edge of each support panel.
2. Position: Place the glued edge onto the base, about an inch or two in from the edges of the base for stability. Make sure they are perpendicular to the base. You can use a speed square to help.
3. Clamp: Use clamps to hold the support panels firmly in place.
4. Pre-Drill and Screw: Pre-drill pilot holes through the base and into the support panels. Then, drive 1 1/2-inch wood screws to secure them. Place screws every 6-8 inches. Countersinking the screws will give a cleaner look.
5. Add Side Supports: Repeat the process for your side support panels, attaching them to the base and potentially to the main supports for added rigidity. A strong base is key for a safe cat tree.
Step 4: Build and Attach Platforms
Now, let’s add some levels! You’ll be attaching platforms to the support panels.
1. Determine Height: Decide where you want your first platform. Mark the support panels at the desired height. Use a level to ensure your marks are even.
2. Apply Glue: Apply wood glue to the edges of the support panels where the platform will rest.
3. Attach Platform: Place the platform onto the glued edges.
4. Clamp, Pre-Drill, and Screw: Clamp the platform securely. Pre-drill pilot holes through the platform into the support panels. Drive screws to fasten it. Again, consider countersinking.
5. Repeat: Continue adding platforms at different heights, always ensuring they are level and securely attached. You can attach platforms directly to the vertical panels, or if you’re creating a box-like structure, you might screw them into internal supports.
Step 5: Construct and Install Any Enclosed Spaces (Boxes)
If you’re adding a cozy hideaway, now’s the time.
1. Assemble the Box: Take your box panels. Apply wood glue to the joining edges of the sides, top, bottom, and back. Clamp them together and pre-drill pilot holes. Secure with screws.
2. Attach to Tree: Decide where you want to place the box – it could be on the base, or attached to one of the larger platforms. Apply wood glue to the back of the box and to the corresponding area on the cat tree structure.
3. Secure: Clamp the box in place. Pre-drill pilot holes through the supporting structure and into the back of the box, then drive screws to secure it firmly.
Step 6: Add Vertical Scratching Posts (Optional but Recommended!)
Cats love to scratch, and integrating a dedicated scratching area is a great idea. The easiest way to do this with plywood is to use the vertical support panels.
1. Prepare the Surface: Ensure the support panels intended for scratching are smooth.
2. Apply Glue: Apply a generous amount of wood glue to one of the vertical support panels. Start from the bottom.
3. Wrap Sisal Rope: Begin tightly wrapping the sisal rope around the glued area. Keep the coils close together with no gaps.
4. Secure Rope: As you wrap, you can use a heavy-duty staple gun or upholstery staples to tack the rope every few inches, especially at the beginning and end. You can also use small nails.
5. Continue Wrapping: Work your way up the entire length of the support panel(s) you’ve designated for scratching. Apply more glue as needed.
6. Finish: Once you reach the top, secure the end of the rope with staples or nails. Trim any excess.
Step 7: Add Soft Coverings (Carpet, etc.)
To make the platforms and interior of the box comfortable, cover them with carpet remnants.
1. Cut Carpet: Measure your platform or box surfaces and cut the carpet to size, leaving a little extra around the edges to fold over.
2. Attach Carpet: Lay the carpet piece onto the surface. Start at one edge and carefully fold the excess carpet over the plywood edge onto the underside of the platform.
3. Secure with Staples: Use your heavy-duty stapler to firmly attach the carpet to the underside of the plywood. Work your way around, pulling the carpet taut to avoid wrinkles. For boxes, carpet the inside as well as the outside if desired.
4. Trim Excess: Use a utility knife to trim away any excess carpet material.
Step 8: Final Inspection and Touch-Ups
Before your cat claims their new throne, give it a thorough once-over.
Check for Stability: Gently rock the tree. Does it feel solid? If not, add more screws or consider adding corner braces to the base.
Inspect for Sharp Objects: Make sure there are no stray staples, nails, or sharp edges exposed.
Smooth Rough Spots: Sand down any remaining rough areas.
Wood Filler (Optional): If you want a super clean look, you can fill screw holes with wood filler, let it dry, and then sand it smooth. You can then paint or stain the plywood if you wish, ensuring it’s non-toxic once cured.
For more tips on ensuring structural integrity and safety for your DIY pet projects, the Gerstner & Sons blog offers excellent foundational advice on woodworking safety and best practices that apply broadly.
Making it Safe: Tips for a Rock-Solid Cat Tree
Safety is paramount. Cats can be surprisingly energetic, and a wobbly or unstable cat tree can be dangerous. Here’s how to ensure yours is as sturdy as can be:
Wide Base: The larger and heavier the base, the more stable the tree will be. Consider making the base significantly wider than the upper levels.
Weight Distribution: Place heavier components like large platforms lower down.
Secure Connections: Don’t skimp on glue and screws. Pre-drilling prevents wood splitting and ensures a tighter fit.
Consider Braces: For taller trees, L-brackets can be added to reinforce the connection between support beams and platforms, or between the base and the first supports.
Material Quality: While budget is a factor, avoid overly thin or weak plywood. 3/4-inch plywood is a good standard for strength and durability.
Anchoring to Wall (Optional): For very tall or narrow cat trees, consider using furniture straps to anchor the top of the tree to a wall stud. This adds an extra layer of security against tipping.
The American Red Cross offers guidance on home safety and child-proofing that has principles directly applicable to pet safety, like securing furniture and preventing tipping hazards.
Customization Ideas for Your Plywood Cat Tree
Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can get creative!
Paint or Stain: Once the wood is fully cured (if you chose to paint/stain), you can personalize the look. Use pet-safe, non-toxic paints or stains.
Toys: Hang dangling toys from platforms or the underside of levels.
Different Textures: Incorporate different fabrics like faux fur or fleece for extra cozy lounging spots.
Puzzle Feeders: Cut small holes to create treat-dispensing puzzle feeders.
Multiple Levels and Rooms: The sky’s the limit for how elaborate you can make it!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What type of plywood is best for a cat tree?
A1: For strength and durability, 3/4-inch thick plywood is recommended. Birch or poplar plywood offers a smoother finish and is less likely to splinter, but utility-grade plywood is a more budget-friendly option for the main structure.
Q2: Is it safe to use screws for assembly?
A2: Yes, screws are excellent. Always pre-drill pilot holes to prevent the plywood from splitting, especially near the edges. Using wood glue along with screws creates very strong joints.
Q3: How do I make sure the cat tree is stable?
A3: A wide and heavy base is key. Ensure all connections are secure with ample glue and screws. For taller trees, consider adding L-brackets for extra reinforcement. Anchoring the top to a wall stud is also an option for maximum safety.
Q4: What is the easiest way to add scratching surfaces?
A4: Wrapping sisal rope tightly around vertical support panels is a popular and effective method. Apply wood glue generously, then tightly wrap the rope, securing it with heavy-duty staples or small nails as you go.
Q5: Can I paint or stain the plywood cat tree?
A5: Yes, you can. However, always use pet-safe, non-toxic paints or stains. Ensure the product is completely cured and free of fumes before letting your cat use it. Lighter colors can also help you spot any potential issues like chewing later on.
Q6: How much does it cost to build a plywood cat tree?
A6: The cost can vary greatly depending on the size and complexity of your design, and whether you already have tools. However, using plywood and scrap materials, you can often build a substantial cat tree for under $50-$100, significantly less than comparable store-bought options.
Q7: What size should the platforms be?
A7: Platforms should be large enough for your cat to comfortably lie down. A good starting point for a medium-sized cat is around 12×16 inches, but you can adjust based on your cat’s size and your design. Ensure there’s enough space for them to maneuver safely.
Conclusion
You’ve done it! You’ve gone from a pile of plywood to a custom-built cat tree that your feline friend will surely adore. Building your own cat tree is a fantastic project for anyone looking to create something functional and fun for their pets while sharpening their DIY skills. Remember, the most important things are to plan your design, work safely, and build with stability in mind. Now, sit back, relax, and watch your cat explore their new favorite spot. Happy building, and may your cat enjoy many happy hours climbing, scratching, and lounging on their new plywood palace!