If you’re a cat parent, you know that our furry friends have a natural instinct to climb, explore, and perch. Ordinary cat trees are great, but they can sometimes feel bulky or out of place in your home decor. Enter DIY cat shelves! These creative solutions not only offer your cats a way to indulge in their climbing desires but also add a stylish element to your living space.
Cat shelves are the perfect blend of functionality and design. They give your feline friends a place to roam, jump, and relax—all while making your walls look interesting and unique. And the best part? You don’t need to be a DIY expert to create these shelves. Whether you’re looking for simple ideas or more intricate designs, there’s something for every skill level.
Let’s dive into these 21 DIY cat shelf ideas that can transform your walls into a cat wonderland. From floating shelves to wall-mounted mazes, there are endless possibilities to explore!
1. Floating Cat Shelves
Floating cat shelves are a minimalist yet functional option that suits any home decor. These shelves appear to “float” without visible supports, giving a clean and modern look. Installing them at various heights allows your cat to climb, perch, or nap comfortably.
To create these shelves, you’ll need sturdy wooden boards and wall brackets. You can paint or stain the boards to match your decor, adding a personal touch to your space. Arrange them creatively along the wall to create a unique pathway for your feline friends to explore.
These floating shelves are perfect for integrating into any room without overwhelming the space. Whether it’s a cozy corner in the living room or a sunny spot near a window, floating shelves offer both style and functionality for your home and your cat.
2. Cat Climbing Ladder Shelves
Turn an old ladder into a fantastic climbing structure for your cats. Ladders provide both vertical and horizontal surfaces, making them perfect for cats that enjoy climbing and exploring. This idea also adds a rustic and cozy charm to any room.
You can easily repurpose a wooden ladder by sanding and painting it to suit your decor. Secure the ladder against a wall with anchors to ensure stability. Adding cushioned steps or pads can provide extra comfort and safety for your pets.
Cat climbing ladder shelves are ideal for narrow spaces where traditional shelves might not fit. They maximize vertical space, giving your cat a variety of levels to play on while saving precious floor space.
3. Corner Cat Shelves
Corner cat shelves utilize often-unused space, creating multiple levels for your cat to enjoy. This type of shelf is perfect for small apartments or cozy rooms where wall space is limited. The shelves fit snugly into the corner, creating a discreet climbing structure.
To build corner shelves, measure the corner space and cut wooden boards to size. You can attach these boards to the wall with corner brackets, ensuring they are securely anchored. Covering the shelves with a soft material like carpet can provide extra traction for your cat as they climb.
These shelves blend seamlessly with your room’s decor and make excellent use of tight spaces. They can be arranged in staggered patterns to encourage jumping and climbing, giving your cat both exercise and a sense of adventure.
4. Cat Hammock Shelves
A cat hammock shelf combines comfort and playfulness, offering a unique lounging spot for your feline friend. Unlike traditional shelves, a hammock adds a touch of whimsy to your home while providing a cozy space for your cat to relax.
To create a hammock shelf, you’ll need a wooden frame and a sturdy piece of fabric. The frame can be mounted on the wall, with the fabric stretched across it to form a hammock. Make sure the shelf is securely fastened to hold your cat’s weight.
Cats love the feeling of swaying in a hammock, especially when placed high up where they feel safe. This design adds a playful element to your home and gives your cat a favorite spot to nap and observe.
5. Multi-Level Cat Jungle Gym Shelves
A multi-level jungle gym setup can be the ultimate playground for active cats. Imagine a wall filled with various platforms, steps, and hiding spots—creating endless possibilities for climbing and jumping. This setup is great for households with multiple cats who need space to roam.
To make a jungle gym, plan a layout that includes steps, ramps, and platforms of different sizes. You can use sisal or rope to wrap some boards, turning them into scratching posts. Make sure all pieces are securely mounted to the wall to prevent accidents.
This type of installation takes up vertical space, keeping the floor clear while providing an engaging environment for your pets. It also serves as a conversation piece for visitors, making it a stylish and functional addition to any home.
6. Minimalist Shelf and Plant Combo
For those who prefer a sleek and modern look, combining simple cat shelves with greenery creates a beautiful visual effect. Cats love height, and adding some non-toxic plants makes the space more vibrant and natural.
Floating shelves can be installed at different heights to create a vertical garden path. Ensure there’s enough room for small plants that are safe for cats, like spider plants or cat grass. Arrange the plants and shelves in an eye-catching pattern.
This idea provides a natural feel to your home while giving your cat plenty of climbing opportunities. The combination of shelves and plants adds both life and functionality to any room.
7. Crate Shelves for Cats
Old wooden crates can be repurposed into rustic, spacious shelves that cats will love to climb and explore. Crate shelves can be stacked and mounted in creative ways to suit your wall space, adding a unique character to your home.
Start by painting or staining the crates to match your interior. Then, securely mount them on the wall in a staggered pattern, ensuring they are strong enough to support your cat’s weight. You can also add small cushions or blankets inside for extra comfort.
Crate shelves are not only budget-friendly but also provide endless customization options. They offer both aesthetic appeal and practicality, perfect for any cat-loving home.
8. Carpeted Cat Wall Shelves
Adding carpet to your cat shelves can significantly enhance comfort and safety. Carpeted shelves give cats the traction they need to jump and climb without slipping, making them more likely to use the shelves.
To make carpeted shelves, you can cut pieces of carpet to fit the wooden boards. Glue or staple the carpet securely to the boards, ensuring it is firmly attached. Mount the shelves at different heights along the wall for a fun climbing experience.
These shelves are perfect for creating a cozy cat corner in any room. They are especially ideal for older cats who need softer, more comfortable surfaces to climb and rest on.
9. Hexagon Honeycomb Cat Shelves
Hexagon-shaped shelves, arranged in a honeycomb pattern, can create a stunning visual effect on your walls. These shelves offer multiple nooks for your cat to explore and can double as modern wall art.
To build honeycomb shelves, arrange hexagon-shaped wooden pieces in a pattern on the wall. Secure each piece firmly to ensure they can hold your cat’s weight. You can add small cushions or blankets inside each hexagon for added comfort.
Honeycomb cat shelves not only serve as functional climbing spaces but also add a touch of modern elegance to your home decor. They are a great conversation starter and provide endless fun for your cats.
10. Window Perch Shelves
Cats love a good view, and window perch shelves offer them the perfect vantage point. These shelves allow your cat to bask in the sun while watching birds and other outdoor activities.
A window perch can be made by installing a sturdy wooden board just below the window ledge. Adding a cushion or blanket can make it extra comfortable for lounging. Make sure the shelf is securely fastened to avoid any accidents.
This idea is ideal for creating a relaxing spot for your cat to unwind while still being entertained by the view outside. It’s a simple yet effective way to add some feline fun to your home.
11. Cat Walkway Shelves
A cat walkway is perfect for high-energy cats who love to traverse different surfaces. Walkway shelves can be installed along the walls of your room, creating a dynamic climbing route that keeps your cat active and engaged.
Start by installing long wooden boards along the walls, ensuring they are secure and stable. You can wrap parts of the boards with sisal rope to add scratching areas. Arrange the shelves at different heights to encourage jumping and climbing.
Walkway shelves transform your home into an adventurous playground, providing both exercise and entertainment for your cat. They also add a unique and interactive element to your interior design.
12. Themed Cat Shelves
If you love a particular theme, why not extend that to your cat shelves? Whether it’s nautical, boho, or something more eclectic, themed shelves can blend seamlessly with your home decor while adding a playful element for your pet.
To create themed cat shelves, paint or decorate the shelves according to your chosen theme. For a nautical look, add small anchors or ropes, while for a boho theme, consider adding plants and macrame hangings. Secure the shelves firmly to the wall to ensure safety.
Themed cat shelves are a fun way to express your personal style while catering to your cat’s love for climbing and exploring. They also serve as stylish decor pieces that guests will admire.
13. Cat Tree Shelf Combo
Combining a cat tree with wall-mounted shelves can give your feline friends a complete playground experience. This setup maximizes both vertical and floor space, making it a great choice for small apartments.
Start by building a cat tree base on the floor using sturdy materials. Above it, install a series of shelves that your cat can use to climb higher. Make sure all parts are securely anchored to prevent any wobbling or tipping.
The cat tree and shelf combo provides different textures and levels for your cat to explore. It’s perfect for active cats and offers a comprehensive play and relaxation area.
14. Interactive Cat Shelves with Toys
Adding toys to your cat shelves can make them even more fun and engaging. Cats love to bat at dangling toys, and having them attached to their shelves can keep them entertained for hours.
To create interactive shelves, install them at different heights and attach toys like feather wands or bells. Ensure all toys are securely fastened and safe for your cat to play with. You can change the toys periodically to keep things exciting.
Interactive shelves encourage exercise and mental stimulation, helping to prevent boredom and behavioral issues. They’re a great way to enrich your cat’s environment.
15. Bookshelf Conversion Cat Shelves
An old bookshelf can be transformed into a vertical playground for your cats. By removing a few shelves and modifying the structure, you can create a fun climbing and resting area that doubles as storage.
To convert a bookshelf, remove some of the middle shelves to create open spaces for jumping. Add carpet pieces to some surfaces for extra traction. Ensure the entire structure is securely anchored to the wall to prevent tipping.
This is an excellent way to recycle old furniture and make your space cat-friendly without adding extra clutter. It’s both practical and stylish.
16. Geometric Cat Climbing Wall
Turn your walls into a geometric playground by creating various shapes like triangles, rectangles, or hexagons. This setup adds a modern touch while giving your cat plenty of climbing and jumping options.
Cut and paint wooden shapes that fit your decor style. Secure them to the wall in an appealing pattern that allows for easy climbing. Ensure each piece is stable and safe for your pet.
Geometric climbing walls are both functional and artistic, making them an excellent addition to any room. They provide endless climbing opportunities while enhancing the visual appeal of your home.
17. Vintage Ladder Cat Shelves
For those who love vintage decor, a repurposed ladder can add character to your home while serving as a climbing and lounging area for your cat. A vintage ladder shelf brings both functionality and style.
Restore the ladder by sanding and painting it to match your decor. Secure it firmly to the wall to prevent it from falling over. You can add cushioned steps to make it more comfortable for your cat.
This idea is unique and gives your home a charming, rustic feel. It’s a creative way to incorporate vintage elements while keeping your cat happy and entertained.
18. Pipe and Plank Cat Shelves
If you’re a fan of industrial-style decor, pipe and plank shelves can be a great addition to your home. They’re sturdy, stylish, and perfect for creating a modern cat playground.
Assemble metal pipes and wooden planks to form a shelf. Paint the pipes and planks to match your room’s color scheme. Secure the shelves to the wall using brackets and anchors.
This setup gives your home an urban, edgy vibe while providing ample climbing space for your cats. It’s perfect for lofts or contemporary homes with an industrial touch.
19. Staircase Cat Shelves
Staircase-style shelves mimic the design of a staircase, allowing your cat to move up and down with ease. This design is functional and adds a visually interesting element to your walls.
Install shelves in a staggered pattern, ensuring each step is wide and sturdy enough for your cat. Use high-quality materials and secure each piece properly to the wall.
Staircase shelves provide your cat with both exercise and entertainment. They’re a unique and eye-catching addition to any room.
20. Floating Box Cat Shelves
Floating boxes offer enclosed spaces for cats who enjoy privacy. These boxes can be arranged at various heights, creating a fun and interactive environment for your cat.
To create floating box shelves, paint or stain the boxes to match your decor. Secure them to the wall with strong brackets, making sure they are safe and stable. Add a soft cushion or blanket inside each box.
Floating boxes serve as both decor pieces and functional climbing spaces. They add depth and dimension to your walls while giving your cat a cozy place to rest.
21. DIY Wall-Mounted Cat Condo
For the ultimate cat experience, a wall-mounted cat condo offers multiple levels, hiding spots, and platforms for climbing. Think of it as a high-rise apartment for your feline friend.
Build multiple levels with wooden platforms and cubbies, carpeting each level for comfort. Securely attach the entire structure to the wall to ensure stability and safety.
A wall-mounted cat condo is perfect for creating a luxurious space for your cat to explore, rest, and play. It’s a great way to pamper your pet while adding a unique focal point to your room.
Conclusion
DIY cat shelves are a fantastic way to enrich your cat’s environment while adding a unique touch to your home decor. Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a beginner looking for a weekend project, there’s an idea here for everyone. These shelves not only cater to your feline friend’s natural instincts but also provide a creative outlet for your interior design ambitions.
So, why settle for the ordinary when you can create a custom cat haven? Get your tools ready and start building! Your cats will thank you with purrs and endless contentment.
