Cat Room Decor and Design Ideas Your Kitty Will Thank You For
Ever feel like your cat owns the house—but still needs a room of their own? You’re not wrong. Cats love having a cozy space to nap, climb, and hide from the chaos (and let’s be honest, from you too).
In this post, I’ll show you 10 cat room decor and design ideas that don’t need a mansion or a fat wallet.
Whether you live in an apartment or have a full house, there’s something here your cat will love—and maybe even thank you for (with a purr, not a text).
1. Under-Stairs Cat Room Hideout
Some people store brooms under the stairs. Others? They give that space to royalty. Cat royalty.
If you’ve got that awkward triangle under your staircase collecting dust, it’s time to turn it into a cozy hideout your cat can claim as their own.
How to Create an Under-Stairs Cat Room:
Clear it out.
Empty the space completely. Sweep, wipe down, and check for any nails, wires, or sharp edges.
Seal it safely.
Make sure the space is secure—no holes or gaps where your cat could sneak into walls or get stuck.
Add cozy layers.
Lay down a soft blanket, old pillow, or pet bed. Use warm, calming colors and materials. If your cat likes to burrow, toss in a fleece or towel they can dig into.
Include the basics.
A small scratching post, a water bowl, and a few favorite toys. If there’s room, add a low shelf or cardboard box as a perch.
Soft lighting.
Stick-on LED touch lights work great here. Soft warm light makes it feel less like a cave and more like a calm nook.
Decorate it!
Hang a cute nameplate (“Whiskers’ Den”), stick on paw-print decals, or frame a tiny photo of your cat. This is optional but adorable.
Make the entrance cat-sized.
If you want to keep it “hidden,” install a small curtain or flap at the opening so your cat feels safe but still has easy access.
Why This Works So Well:
Cats love small, tucked-away spaces. It makes them feel safe and in control. And you get bonus points for finally doing something useful with that dead space.
By the way, if you're into DIY Hacks stuff, you’ll wanna check this one out: 5 Indoor Cat Room Ideas That’ll Make Your Kitty Purr with Joy
2. DIY Cat Wall Climbing Gym for Small Spaces
If your cat is turning your bookshelf into a jungle gym, it’s not misbehavior—it’s a cry for vertical real estate. Cats love to climb. It’s instinct. But in small homes or apartments, floor space is tight. That’s where a wall climbing gym comes in.
It looks cool, saves space, and gives your cat the high ground they crave.
How to Build a Wall-Mounted Cat Gym:
Pick a wall.
Choose a spot where your cat already hangs out. Empty walls in the living room, hallway, or even above a desk work great.
Sketch a simple layout.
Think staggered shelves, small platforms, ramps, or a mounted box. Leave enough room between steps for easy jumping—about 12 to 16 inches is ideal.
Get the materials.
Use:
- Floating shelves (sturdy ones!)
- Sisal rope (to wrap for grip)
- Wooden crates (for hideouts)
- Brackets and anchors (to secure them safely)
Wrap and pad.
Wrap parts of the shelves in sisal or carpet for scratching. Add non-slip mats or rugs to the platforms for comfort and safety.
Install smart.
Use wall anchors or screw into studs. Make sure everything is solid—no wobbling. This part’s key.
Test it slowly.
Let your cat explore one or two pieces first. Add more once they’re confident. You can even sprinkle a little catnip to encourage climbing.
Decorate around it.
Use matching colors or paint the shelves to blend with your room’s look. A pretty cat gym makes your whole space look better.
Why It’s Great for Apartments:
You’re not using the wall for anything else, so turning it into a playground keeps your cat active without taking over your floor.
Oh, and speaking of DIY Hacks, here’s another one you might like: 5 Kitty Corner Ideas That’ll Cozy Up Any Room
3. Sunny Window Cat Lounge for Indoor Rooms
If there’s one thing cats worship (besides themselves), it’s the sun. A warm sunbeam on a quiet afternoon? That’s heaven. And you don’t need a fancy room to give it to them—just a sunny window and a little creativity.
This idea is perfect for small homes, apartments, or any indoor space with decent light.
How to Set Up a Sunny Window Cat Lounge:
Pick the right window.
Choose a window that gets sunlight during the day and has a safe, quiet view. Avoid drafty or cold spots.
Add a window perch.
Install a suction-cup cat perch, a hammock, or build a shelf just below the windowsill. If you’re renting, go with something removable.
Soften the seat.
Place a soft blanket or small cushion on the perch. Use materials that hold heat well, like fleece or faux fur.
Add a curtain cave (optional).
If the window has curtains, tuck them around the perch to create a cozy hideout your cat can peek through.
Give them a show.
Place a bird feeder outside the window or let plants grow nearby. Moving shadows and chirping birds make for A+ cat TV.
Keep it clean and safe.
Make sure the screen is secure if the window opens. Check for cords or sharp objects nearby.
Why Cats Love This:
It’s warm, quiet, high up, and private. That’s like hitting all the feline jackpot boxes at once.
Also, just throwing this in—this DIY Hacks post is a fun read too: Want a Cool Cat Tree? Try These 10 DIY Ideas
4. Closet Cat Room Makeover – Apartment-Friendly Idea
Got a spare closet no one uses? Great—your cat just found their dream studio apartment. Even a tiny closet can become a perfect cat room, especially if you’re short on space.
This is one of the smartest cat apartment ideas that keeps things tidy, hidden, and totally functional.
How to Turn a Closet Into a Cat Room:
Empty it out.
Remove everything. Clean the floor, walls, and corners. Make sure there’s nothing left that could fall or harm your cat.
Add soft flooring.
Lay down a washable rug, old blanket, or foam mat. Cats love comfort under their paws.
Create levels.
Add a few small shelves or stackable boxes. Cats love vertical space, even in small rooms.
Hide the litter box.
Tuck the litter box in one corner. Use a mat underneath to catch mess. If space allows, hide it in a litter cabinet or covered crate.
Toys, bed, and scratch post.
Include your cat’s favorite bed or blanket, a few hanging toys, and a vertical scratcher. If it’s a walk-in closet, toss in a climbing post too.
Light it up.
Add stick-on LED lights or battery-operated lamps. Cats prefer soft lighting in cozy spaces.
Keep the door open.
Either remove the door, keep it slightly open, or install a cat flap. You don’t want your cat locked in (or out!).
Why It’s a Genius Use of Space:
You’re not sacrificing any main room, and your cat gets a private zone. Plus, it keeps their things out of sight—great for small apartments.
5. Stylish Cat Living Room Corner Setup
You don’t have to give up style to give your cat a space of their own. With a few clever tricks, you can turn one corner of your living room into a full-on cat haven—without making it look like a pet store exploded.
This works great for small homes where every square foot counts.
How to Set Up a Cat Corner in Your Living Room:
Pick a low-traffic corner.
Choose a calm spot near the window or sofa where your cat already likes to hang out.
Use furniture that blends in.
Get a modern cat tree in neutral colors, a hidden litter box cabinet, or a scratching post that matches your decor.
Add cozy bedding.
A soft round bed or blanket basket looks cute and gives your cat a place to snooze without stealing the whole couch.
Vertical options = happier cat.
If there’s space, mount a few minimalist shelves or a small wall perch to let your cat climb and observe.
Decorate with dual purpose.
Add small plants (cat-safe only), a stylish toy basket, or a woven basket that doubles as a hideout.
Keep it clean and easy.
Use washable materials. Hide litter and food bowls nearby but out of sight with storage bins or sliding drawers.
Why This Setup Rocks:
You give your cat a room-within-a-room, and your space still looks like a grown-up lives there. Win-win.
6. Boho Cat Room Decor on a Budget
If you love macramé, soft textures, and earthy tones, there’s no reason your cat can’t enjoy that vibe too. A boho-style cat room is calm, cozy, and full of personality—and you can pull it off without breaking the bank.
Perfect for both full rooms and tiny corners.
How to Create a Boho Cat Space:
Stick to soft, natural colors.
Think beige, off-white, olive green, and rust. Lay down a woven rug or old throw blanket as a base.
Add texture.
Use wicker baskets for toy storage or as nap spots. Wrap posts in sisal rope. Toss in a shaggy cushion or two.
Macramé magic.
Hang a macramé plant holder (with a fake or cat-safe plant) or a macramé hammock low to the ground. Looks cute and gives texture.
DIY decor touches.
Frame a photo of your cat, hang a small wooden name sign, or use thrift store decor finds to add charm.
Keep it cozy.
Drape a light muslin or linen curtain if it’s in a closet or under-stairs spot. Add battery fairy lights for a soft glow.
Scratching with style.
Choose cardboard or rope scratchers that look handwoven or rustic, instead of bright plastic ones.
Why Cats Love It:
It’s soft, warm, and full of good hiding spots. Plus, your home stays Instagram-worthy.
7. Modern Cat Room Design with Hidden Features
If you like clean lines, neutral tones, and smart storage, this one’s for you. A modern cat room doesn’t have to scream “pet zone.” You can give your cat everything they need—while keeping your home looking sleek and clutter-free.
It’s all about blending function with style.
How to Design a Modern Cat Room:
Stick to a simple color palette.
Go with white, grey, beige, or black. Use matching colors for shelves, beds, and litter furniture.
Use furniture with hidden functions.
Think benches that double as litter box covers, side tables that hold toys, or cabinets with hidden beds inside.
Install floating elements.
Wall-mounted shelves, ramps, and perches save floor space and look minimalist. Choose geometric shapes for a modern vibe.
Hide the clutter.
Keep litter scoops, food bowls, and toys in drawers or boxes. The space should look clean even with daily use.
Add one standout piece.
Maybe it’s a designer cat tree, a sculptural scratcher, or a bold monochrome tunnel. Keep it simple but eye-catching.
Lighting matters.
Use soft, indirect lighting. A hidden LED strip or a small modern lamp works better than overhead lights.
Why Cats and Humans Both Love It:
Your cat gets their own space without sacrificing the aesthetic of your home. It’s comfy for them, stylish for you.
8. DIY Cat Space Wall for Apartments
Living in a small apartment doesn’t mean your cat has to miss out on adventure. A DIY cat space wall gives your cat room to climb, perch, and explore—without taking up your floor. It’s one of the smartest ways to keep indoor cats happy in tight spaces.
And the best part? You can build it yourself without any fancy tools.
How to Build a Cat Space Wall:
Pick a low-traffic wall.
Choose a spot where your cat already hangs out—like behind the couch, in the hallway, or near a window.
Map out a climbing path.
Use tape or pencil to plan where each platform or shelf will go. Make sure your cat can jump between them easily.
Gather your materials.
Use lightweight floating shelves, brackets, wooden crates, or even repurposed steps. Secure them with wall anchors or studs.
Add grip and comfort.
Wrap shelf tops with sisal rope, carpet, or anti-slip pads. This keeps your cat safe and comfy while climbing.
Include a hideout.
Mount a small box or crate with a cutout for a cozy nap spot. Line it with a blanket or cushion.
Decorate subtly.
Paint the shelves to match your walls. Add small fake plants or soft lighting to keep things looking nice.
Why It Works for Apartments:
You make use of vertical space that would otherwise go unused. Your cat gets exercise and stimulation, and your apartment still feels open and clean.
9. Outdoor Balcony Cat Room (Safe & Enclosed)
Got a balcony and an indoor cat staring longingly at the birds? This one’s for you. You don’t need a backyard to give your cat outdoor time. With a few safety tweaks, your balcony can turn into a mini cat paradise—fresh air, sunshine, and zero escape routes.
Perfect for apartment cats who crave the outdoors.
How to Set Up a Safe Balcony Cat Room:
Enclose the space.
Use balcony netting, mesh, or clear panels to fully seal off the area. Your cat should be able to enjoy the view—but not slip through anything.
Create soft flooring.
Add outdoor rugs, foam mats, or fake grass to cover the hard surface. This makes it more inviting for lounging.
Add shade and shelter.
Place a small covered crate or cat cube in one corner. This gives your cat a cool place to hide if it’s sunny or windy.
Add vertical fun.
Install a low climbing post, a step shelf, or even a wall-mounted perch if you’ve got railing or siding to work with.
Make it stimulating.
Hang a wind chime, place a pot of cat grass, or mount a window bird feeder nearby. Nature is cat TV.
Supervise at first.
Watch how your cat uses the space. Some might be nervous at first—others will try to climb everything.
Why Cats Love It:
They get the outdoor sights, smells, and sounds while staying safe. You’ll notice a calmer, happier cat after just a few minutes in their balcony retreat.
10. Creative Cat Room Theme Ideas for Any Home
Tired of boring beige cat corners? Give your kitty some flair with a themed cat room. You don’t need a giant budget or a full room—just a little imagination and a few fun touches.
Themed cat spaces make your home more fun and your cat’s world more exciting.
Fun Theme Ideas You Can Try:
Jungle Adventure
Use fake vines, green rugs, leaf-print cushions, and wood textures. Add a tall climbing post and a few hanging toys. Instant wild vibes.
Space Explorer
Paint one wall navy or black. Add glow-in-the-dark stars, a round spaceship-style bed, and tunnel toys that look like moon tubes.
Cat Café Corner
Use a tiny table and chair set, mini shelves for treats and toys, and soft lighting. Add a felt “menu” with your cat’s favorite snacks.
Beach Vibes
Use sand-colored rugs, shell-patterned fabric, and a small umbrella or shaded corner. A driftwood-style scratching post fits right in.
Vintage Library
Stack fake books or boxes to climb, use dark wood tones, and add a cozy armchair-style cat bed. Warm lighting finishes the look.
How to Keep It Cat-Friendly:
Make sure everything is safe—no small choking hazards, loose wires, or plants that aren’t cat-safe. Focus on textures, color, and a few standout pieces.
