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Cats like to climb (and claw) but life indoors doesn’t offer many human-approved opportunities for these pastimes. If a cat tower isn’t cutting it as a tree substitute or scratching post, why not create your own pet playground for your furry friend to explore using off-the-shelf shelves? A cat perch and wall shelf system could be just the ticket. This easy D.I.Y. guide will show you how.
First, select a wall of your home on which to install floating and bracketed shelves – in a living area is ideal, so your cat can rise above it all without missing out on the household action. Plan the design of your cat perch and bridge system by measuring the wall – and your pet! – to work out the number of shelves, their lengths and distance between them. A staggered layout across the room’s wall is perfect so kitty can move gracefully from ledge to ledge.
Next, check your floating shelves are rated to hold the weight of your cat. If using raw timber with brackets, apply a non-toxic finish and leave it to cure thoroughly before installing. For top shelf access, create a cat-sized cut-out using a jigsaw.
On plasterboard walls, locate the studs and noggins with a stud finder. Use painter’s tape to mark the bracket locations centred over the studs, then mark the fixings on the tape, checking they’re level. Secure brackets to the wall and screw shelf panels to brackets. For masonry walls, use wall plugs and avoid fastening into the mortar joints.
Try adding a scratching mat to your cat's indoor climbing wall to help them burn off energy and curb their interest in roaming and hunting. Attach a jute scratching mat with self-adhesive hook-and-loop tape to a shelf or two for your cat to scratch, and tie on toys. Then sit back and watch them tread the boards!
• When using power tools, always wear the recommended safety equipment.
• Before drilling into walls, use a stud finder to check for wiring or pipework, and turn off the power before working. If unsure, call a professional.
• Make sure you use shelf fixings and fasteners appropriate for the type of wall and for the weight of the pets.
• Ensure any indoor plants within kitten or cat’s reach are non-toxic to pets.
Check out our D.I.Y. pet projects for more ideas and inspiration.
Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.
Photo Credit: James Moffatt
Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.
When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.
