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How to build a cat window hammock

By Bunnings magazine May/June 2025

A diagram showing a D.I.Y. cat perch or window hammock

Overview

Cats love lounging in the sun, being up high and, as millions of memes show, a box! And that’s why this cat window hammock is every kitty’s dream bed. Designed for a standard 600mm-wide window, this project uses budget-friendly pine and you can have the base panel cut to size in store. Add a frame with glue and nails, then secure the box to wall studs or noggins under the sill using off-the-shelf brackets. No power tools necessary! 

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.

Steps

1Start your build

Use a mitre box and handsaw to cut two 550mm front and back pieces, and two 429mm sides from the 12mm pine lengths. Position frame pieces around the precut 550mm x 405mm box base, running adhesive along the joints, including corners. Wrap masking tape tightly around the box to hold it together; leave to dry. Remove tape. 
The back of a ginger and white cat’s head and body looking out a window

2Tap in your nails, fill holes and sand

Tap nails into the corner joints and through the sides into the base using a hammer. Fill all nail holes, leave to dry, then sand box all over with 180-grit paper. Lightly sand pine brackets. Wipe away dust with a cloth. Apply primer to box and brackets, then apply two coats of paint, leaving to dry after each coat.

3Hang your perch

Use a stud finder to mark the stud centres on the wall (usually 450mm apart) under the sill, then position the brackets and transfer the hook marks (on the back of the short sides). Use a screwdriver to install 50mm screws and hang brackets on the protruding heads. Install a 50mm screw through the predrilled hole at the base of each bracket. Centre the tray over the brackets, against the window trim, and secure from underneath through the predrilled holes with 30mm screws.

4Create your mattress for your cat window hammock

To create your own ‘mattress’ for the bed, use a utility knife to cut two pieces of 30mm multi-use foam board to fit the tray. Stack them and cover with fabric (about 800mm x 750mm), folding the sides under to hold it in place, then position in the tray.

5Keep in mind...

  • When painting, always wear safety equipment (eye protection and mask) and ensure the room is well ventilated. Keep all paint and chemicals out of reach of children and pets. 
  • Before fixing into walls, use a stud finder to check for wiring or pipework, and turn off the power before working. If unsure, call a professional. 
  • Use brackets suitable for the weight of the finished project and your cat, with fixings appropriate for your wall type. 

6Want a fresh new take on a litter box?

Here’s how to make a kitty litter box in four easy steps.

 

Photo credit: Getty Images. Diagram: Stephen Pollitt.

Health & Safety

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.