Living in a small home doesn’t mean your feline friend has to miss out on adventure and comfort. Cat wall shelves are a fantastic way to utilize vertical space, keeping your floors clear while giving your cat places to climb, perch, and play. These DIY projects are budget-friendly, customizable, and perfect for apartments or cozy houses. Whether you’re a beginner crafter or seasoned DIYer, these 15 ideas will inspire you to create a cat paradise on your walls. Let’s dive in!
1. Tiered Wall-Mounted Cat Shelves
Transform your walls into a dynamic playground with tiered shelves of varying sizes. This design allows cats to climb and leap between levels, offering both exercise and cozy resting spots. Customize with carpet for added grip and comfort—ideal for energetic kitties in tight spaces.
Materials Needed:
- Wooden planks (various lengths, e.g., 12-24 inches)
- Shelf brackets
- Carpet or faux fur remnants
- Screws and wall anchors
- Sandpaper and paint (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Measure and cut planks to desired sizes.
- Sand edges for smoothness and paint if desired.
- Attach carpet to the top of each plank using staples or glue.
- Install brackets into wall studs for stability.
- Mount shelves in a staggered, tiered pattern, spacing them 12-18 inches apart vertically.
This setup maximizes vertical space without encroaching on your floor area, making it a smart choice for small homes.
2. Carpeted Crate and Shelf Combo
Combine carpeted crates with colorful shelves for a vibrant, interactive hideout. The crates provide enclosed nooks for resting, while shelves offer jumping platforms—adding pops of color to your decor.
Materials Needed:
- Wooden crates (small to medium sizes)
- Carpet scraps in various colors
- Shelf brackets
- Glue or staples
- Paint for crates
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Paint crates in fun colors and let dry.
- Line insides with carpet for softness.
- Mount crates and separate shelves on the wall in a combo layout.
- Space elements to allow easy jumping between them.
- Secure everything to studs for safety.
Perfect for small rooms, as it turns unused wall space into a multi-functional play area.
3. Multi-Layered Cat Climbing Station
Build a grid-like station from thick wooden boards and metal cables for ample climbing. The rich wood finish blends with home decor, providing generous lounging space.
Materials Needed:
- Thick wooden boards
- Metal cables and hooks
- Screws and brackets
- Sisal rope for scratching areas
- Wood stain
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cut boards to uniform sizes.
- Stain or seal the wood.
- Drill holes for cables and assemble into a grid.
- Wrap sections with sisal for scratching.
- Mount securely to the wall, ensuring stable connections.
Its vertical focus is great for small homes, offering exercise without bulky furniture.
4. Industrial Pipe Cat Perch
Use robust pipe brackets for heavy-duty shelves that support multiple cats. The sleek painted finish adds a modern edge to any corner.
Materials Needed:
- Galvanized pipes and fittings
- Wooden planks
- Paint (rust-resistant)
- Screws and anchors
- Padding material
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Assemble pipe frames as brackets.
- Paint pipes for a finished look.
- Cut and attach planks to the frames.
- Add padding for comfort.
- Install in a corner, anchoring firmly.
This durable design fits snugly in small spaces, maximizing corners efficiently.
5. Wooden Crate Cat Shelves
Mount wooden crates in artistic formations to create cubby-like retreats. This rustic setup encourages exploration and provides secure hiding spots.
Materials Needed:
- Assorted wooden crates
- Screws and brackets
- Cushions or blankets
- Sandpaper
- Varnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Sand and varnish crates for smoothness.
- Arrange in a pattern on the wall.
- Secure each crate with brackets.
- Add cushions inside for coziness.
- Ensure spacing allows jumping.
Ideal for small homes, as it repurposes crates into space-saving wall art.
6. Greenery Accented Cat Perch
Incorporate hanging plants with minimalist shelves for a nature-inspired perch. A small ladder adds access, blending decor with function.
Materials Needed:
- Floating shelves
- Plant hangers
- Cat-safe plants (e.g., spider plants)
- Brackets
- Rope for ladder
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Install floating shelves at varying heights.
- Attach plant hangers nearby.
- Create a simple rope ladder between levels.
- Place plants strategically.
- Ensure shelves are stable.
This fresh design enhances small spaces with greenery, without taking floor room.
7. Cat Staircase Shelves
Mimic a staircase with angled shelves for continuous climbing. Close spacing ensures accessibility for all cats.
Materials Needed:
- Wooden planks
- Angle brackets
- Grip tape or carpet
- Screws
- Level tool
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cut planks to staircase-like angles.
- Attach grip surfaces.
- Mount in a stepped pattern using brackets.
- Use a level for even installation.
- Test stability before use.
Transforms walls into playful stairs, perfect for compact living.
8. Minimalist Floating Cat Steps
Staggered floating shelves create a vertical path for leaping. Clean lines and colors add modern style.
Materials Needed:
- Plywood sheets
- Floating shelf hardware
- Paint in varied hues
- Sandpaper
- Wall anchors
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cut plywood into step sizes.
- Sand and paint each piece.
- Install floating hardware.
- Arrange in a staggered formation.
- Space for safe jumps.
Sleek and space-efficient for minimalist small homes.
9. Window Viewing Cat Shelf
A carpeted platform near a window offers sunny viewing spots. Metal brackets ensure stability.
Materials Needed:
- Plywood board
- Carpet
- Metal brackets
- Screws
- Measuring tape
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Measure window area and cut board.
- Cover with carpet.
- Attach brackets underneath.
- Mount below or beside window.
- Add levels for multi-cat use.
Utilizes window space in small homes for entertainment.
10. Modern Minimalist Cat Shelf
Sleek wooden platforms with industrial brackets provide stable climbing. Padded for lounging.
Materials Needed:
- Wooden platforms
- Industrial brackets
- Soft padding
- Screws
- Wood finish
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Finish wood platforms.
- Attach padding.
- Mount brackets to wall.
- Secure platforms.
- Arrange vertically.
Blends with contemporary decor in limited spaces.
11. Ceiling-Mounted Cat Walkway
Wide planks along the ceiling create an elevated path. Sturdy piping supports larger cats.
Materials Needed:
- Wooden planks
- Piping and fittings
- Screws
- Rope wrapping
- Ceiling anchors
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Measure and cut planks.
- Assemble piping supports.
- Mount to ceiling.
- Wrap edges with rope.
- Connect sections securely.
Uses overhead space in small homes for adventure.
12. Bunk Bed Cat Shelves
Tiered bunk setup with soft bedding for multi-cat resting. Mini bed frame adds whimsy.
Materials Needed:
- Small wooden frames
- Fabric for beds
- Cushions
- Brackets
- Paint
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Build mini frames.
- Attach fabric slings.
- Add cushions.
- Mount in tiers.
- Paint for fun.
Compact and cute for shared small spaces.
13. Cat Hammock and Cubby Set
Wall-mounted hammock with cylindrical steps and a cubby for lounging and hiding.
Materials Needed:
- Fabric for hammock
- Wooden cylinders
- Brackets
- Cushions
- Rope
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Sew hammock fabric.
- Cut and mount cylinders as steps.
- Install cubby box.
- Hang hammock.
- Arrange set on wall.
Versatile for play and rest in tiny areas.
14. Modular Cat Climbing Wall
Mix platforms, ramps, and tunnels in a carpeted modular system—expandable over time.
Materials Needed:
- Plywood pieces
- Carpet
- Ramps and tunnel materials
- Connectors
- Screws
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cut components.
- Carpet for grip.
- Assemble modules.
- Mount and connect.
- Add more as needed.
Customizable for evolving small home needs.
15. Vertical Cat Playground with Scratch Post
Floating shelves around a sisal scratch post for leaping and scratching.
Materials Needed:
- Shelves
- Sisal rope
- Post base
- Brackets
- Tools for wrapping
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Wrap post with sisal.
- Mount post vertically.
- Add shelves at varying heights.
- Secure all elements.
- Test for durability.
Combines play and claw care in vertical format for small spaces.
These DIY projects not only enrich your cat’s life but also add personality to your small home. Start with one and build from there—your furry friend will thank you!
