DIY Cardboard Cat Climber
Looking to create a stimulating climbing haven for your feline friend without breaking the bank? Look no further than the recycling bin!
This DIY cardboard cat climber is a fun and budget-friendly project that utilizes readily available materials.
Materials:
- Cardboard boxes (various sizes)
- Carpet scraps (optional)
- Sisal rope (or scratching post material)
- Hot glue gun and glue sticks
- Ruler
- Box cutter
- Scissors (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare your cardboard: Select sturdy cardboard boxes in different sizes. Cut the boxes open into flat panels. You can use a mix of larger and smaller squares or rectangles for a more interesting structure.
- Create the climbing platforms: Stack two or three cardboard panels on top of each other, depending on the desired thickness of your platforms. Use the hot glue gun to adhere the panels together, creating sturdy squares or rectangles. Repeat this process to create multiple platforms in different sizes.
- Wrap it up (optional): For a more polished look and added scratching texture, consider wrapping the platforms with carpet scraps. Cut the carpet to size and secure it to the cardboard using hot glue.
- Assemble the climber: Now comes the fun part – building your climber! Use the hot glue gun to attach the platforms to each other, creating a staggered or stacked structure. You can get creative here – experiment with different heights and angles to create a challenging and engaging climbing experience for your cat.
- Add scratching posts: Cut sisal rope or scratching post material into long strips. Wrap the rope around sturdy cardboard tubes (like paper towel rolls) to create scratching posts. Secure the rope with hot glue and attach the finished scratching posts to the sides of your climber using hot glue.
- Stability is key: Ensure your climber is stable by adding reinforcement at key points. You can use additional cardboard pieces as supports or hot glue diagonal braces between platforms for added stability.
Bonus Tip: Add variety and excitement by cutting lookout holes or tunnels into some of the platforms. You can also hang toys from the climber using string or zip ties to further entice your feline friend.
This DIY cardboard cat climber is a fun and functional way to provide your cat with much-needed exercise and stimulation in your small apartment.
Remember, safety is key! Ensure all connections are secure and supervise your cat during playtime.
Hidden Litter Box Ottoman
Does the ever-present litter box disrupt the aesthetics of your small apartment?
Here’s a clever solution – a stylish ottoman that doubles as a hidden litter box enclosure!
Materials:
- Sturdy wooden ottoman frame (consider building one yourself or upcycling an old one)
- Hinged lid (pre-made or cut from plywood)
- Plywood or MDF board (for the litter box compartment)
- Carpet or upholstery fabric
- Screws, nails, and wood glue
- Staple gun (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the ottoman base: If you’re building the ottoman frame from scratch, ensure it’s large enough to comfortably accommodate a standard litter box. If upcycling an existing ottoman, modify it if necessary to create a designated space for the litter box.
- Create the litter box compartment: Cut a plywood or MDF board to the size of the designated litter box space within the ottoman.
- Build the hinged lid: Construct a hinged lid using a pre-made option or cut a piece of plywood to size and attach hinges to one side. You can add a handle or knob for easy opening.
- Assemble the enclosure: Attach the plywood litter box compartment to the bottom of the ottoman frame using screws or wood glue. Secure the hinged lid to the top of the compartment, ensuring it opens smoothly.
- Finishing touches: Cover the ottoman frame and lid with carpet or upholstery fabric using staples or upholstery techniques. This creates a polished look and hides the litter box compartment seamlessly.
Ventilation is key: Drill small ventilation holes on the back or sides of the litter box compartment to prevent odor build-up. Ensure the holes are high enough to avoid litter escaping.
Cleaning access: Design the hinged lid or litter box compartment to be easily removable for cleaning purposes. This allows for convenient litter box maintenance without dismantling the entire ottoman.
With this hidden litter box ottoman, you can keep your cat’s essential amenity discreetly tucked away while maintaining a stylish and functional piece of furniture in your small apartment.
