DIY Low-Cost Cat Tree from Recycled Materials: A Step-by-Step Guide

Updated at: 21/03/2025

Spoiling your feline friend doesn't have to break the bank! Commercial cat trees can be surprisingly expensive, but your cat deserves a place to climb, scratch, and nap in comfort. This guide shows you how to build a fantastic, functional, and affordable cat tree entirely from recycled materials you likely already have around the house or can easily source for free. Forget overpriced pet store purchases; we'll transform discarded cardboard boxes, sturdy branches, old blankets, and more into a purrfect climbing paradise.

Building your own cat tree is a rewarding project that not only saves money but also allows for complete customization to suit your cat's preferences and your home's décor. From selecting the right materials to assembling the final product, we'll walk you through each step of the process with clear instructions and helpful tips. Let's get started with our comprehensive step-by-step guide to creating your own unique and budget-friendly cat tree!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Carpet scraps
  • Recycled lumber
  • 3/4 inch plywood
  • Screwdriver
  • Hot glue gun
  • Staple gun
  • Saw
  • Drill
  • Nails
  • Screws
  • Carpet padding
Safety Guidelines
  • Ensure all materials are thoroughly cleaned and free of any harmful chemicals or sharp edges before assembly. Thoroughly inspect for splinters or rough surfaces.
  • Use strong and sturdy materials capable of supporting your cat's weight. Avoid using materials that could easily break or collapse.
  • Supervise your cat when they are using the cat tree, especially during the initial period. Make sure it is stable and that your cat is not engaging in destructive behavior that could compromise its safety.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare Base and Posts

    • Assemble the base using two 2x4s (one cut to 1 foot, the other to 2 feet).
    • mark, and gently pry the bark using a screwdriver.
    • Cut the legs of the cat tree (one side 12 inches, the other 12 1/4 inches).
    Cut the legs of the cat tree (one side 12 inches, the other 12 1/4 inches).Cut the legs of the cat tree (one side 12 inches, the other 12 1/4 inches).Cut the legs of the cat tree (one side 12 inches, the other 12 1/4 inches).
    Prepare Base and Posts

  2. Create Top Platform

    • Cut out triangle and circle pieces from plywood for the cat tree's top platform.
    • Cut four progressively smaller circles from carpet padding for the mushroom-shaped platforms.
    • Glue the carpet padding circles onto the platform supports to create mushroom shapes.
    Glue the carpet padding circles onto the platform supports to create mushroom shapes.Glue the carpet padding circles onto the platform supports to create mushroom shapes.Glue the carpet padding circles onto the platform supports to create mushroom shapes.
    Create Top Platform

  3. Assemble Top Platform and Posts

    • Cover the platforms with carpet, pulling it tight and stapling it securely. Fold and staple excess carpet to create a “fortune cookie” effect.
    • Attach the platforms to the upright posts using screws.
    Attach the platforms to the upright posts using screws.
    Assemble Top Platform and Posts

  4. Create and Attach Shelf

    • Cover the shelf with carpet, using hot glue and staples. Ensure a one-inch overhang for a clean finish.
    Cover the shelf with carpet, using hot glue and staples. Ensure a one-inch overhang for a clean finish.
    Create and Attach Shelf

  5. Construct Round Bed

    • Create the round bed using leftover scraps of tube material, cutting it into four equal parts and reassembling it into a circle.
    • Attach carpet padding and carpet to the bottom of the round bed using staples and glue.
    Attach carpet padding and carpet to the bottom of the round bed using staples and glue.Attach carpet padding and carpet to the bottom of the round bed using staples and glue.
    Construct Round Bed

  6. Final Assembly

    • Attach the round bed to the cat tree using screws.
    Attach the round bed to the cat tree using screws.
    Final Assembly

Read more: DIY Cuddly Cat & Dog Bed: A Super-Warm, Easy Tutorial

Tips

  • Use leftover materials creatively.
  • Pull the carpet tight and staple for a secure and neat finish.
  • Give yourself plenty of leeway when stapling the carpet to allow for shaping and trimming.
  • Use hot glue beads to secure carpet edges and create a smooth finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Unstable Structure

Reason: Using weak or improperly secured materials can lead to a wobbly or collapsing cat tree, posing a safety risk to your cat.
Solution: Reinforce connections with stronger screws, brackets, or additional supports, and ensure the base is wide and heavy enough.

2. Inadequate Scratching Surface

Reason: Choosing inappropriate materials for scratching posts, such as smooth wood or fabrics that cats can't dig their claws into, will result in your cat ignoring the tree.
Solution: Use sisal rope, carpet remnants, or cardboard tubes as scratching posts, ensuring they're securely attached and appropriately textured for scratching.

FAQs

What materials are best for a DIY cat tree?
Sturdy cardboard boxes (for platforms), strong branches or dowels (for posts), sisal rope or carpet scraps (for scratching), and old blankets or towels (for padding and comfort) work well. Ensure all materials are safe and non-toxic for your cat.
How do I make sure the cat tree is stable and safe?
Use strong adhesives and screws to secure all parts. Test the stability by gently shaking the finished tree. Consider weighting the base with sandbags or heavy objects to prevent tipping. Always supervise your cat, especially when they are using a new cat tree.
My cat is a chewer; will this cat tree hold up?
While no cat tree is completely chew-proof, using durable materials like sturdy cardboard and sisal rope will increase its longevity. Regularly inspect the tree for damage and repair or replace any chewed parts as needed. Consider offering your cat other chew toys to distract them.