Want a Cool Cat Tree? Try These 10 DIY Ideas

Cats love to climb, scratch, and nap in high places. A good cat tree gives them all that in one cozy setup.

But let’s be honest—store-bought cat trees can be ugly or cost a fortune. That’s why I’ve put together 10 fun and easy DIY cat tree ideas you can build at home.

Some are simple. Some are stylish. All are made to make your cat happy—and your wallet, too.

10 dIY cat tree ideas

1. Simple Wooden Cat Tree

This is the classic DIY setup—strong, easy to build, and fits well in most homes. It’s perfect if you don’t want anything too fancy but still want your cat to have a good climb, scratch, and rest.

You can go vertical or keep it compact based on your space. This one also lasts long because you’re working with solid materials.

How to Make It

Start with a square plywood base (about 18×18 inches is good).
Use a thick wooden post (around 2×4 or 4×4 inches) for the center.
Attach the post firmly to the base using screws and corner brackets.
Wrap the post with sisal rope tightly—use hot glue or staples every few rounds to keep it from sliding.
Add platforms at various heights—cut these from plywood and screw them directly into the post.
Cover platforms with carpet pieces or old towels for grip and comfort.
Sand all sharp edges and finish with a non-toxic sealant if needed.

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 Tree With Real Branches

This one looks straight out of a forest. Cats love the texture and smell of real branches, and you get to bring a bit of the outdoors inside.

It looks artistic and can blend in with rustic or nature-themed rooms. Just make sure the wood is safe and dry.

How to Make It

Find thick, sturdy branches—no rotting, cracks, or sticky sap.
Let them dry for a few days, then sand off any rough patches.
Screw or bolt the branches into a solid wooden base—use metal brackets for stability.
Add wooden shelves or small flat planks at branch junctions to act as resting spots.
Wrap one or two lower branches in sisal rope to give scratching surfaces.
Place small cushions or glued fabric patches on the platforms for comfort.
If you want a natural look, leave the bark on. If you prefer clean, sand everything down and paint or seal.

Oh, and speaking of DIY Hacks, here’s another one you might like: 5 Kitty Corner Ideas That’ll Cozy Up Any Room

3. Pallet Cat Tree

Got a few old wooden pallets lying around? Turn them into a DIY cat tree that’s cheap but full of personality. This one is fun if you enjoy upcycling and building from scratch.

It’s great for medium to large spaces and can be shaped as a tower or even a corner design.

How to Make It

Dismantle 1–2 pallets carefully to avoid cracking the boards.
Choose the best planks and cut them to size for the base, posts, and platforms.
Build a boxy frame by attaching vertical supports to the base, then stacking horizontal platforms like stairs.
Reinforce with nails, screws, and L-brackets.
Wrap some vertical supports with sisal rope.
Staple carpet or fabric to platforms. Add a blanket or small pet bed on the top level.
You can paint or stain the wood for a polished look or leave it raw for rustic vibes.

Also, just throwing this in—this DIY Hacks post is a fun read too: 10 Cat Climbing Wall Ideas Your Cat Will Actually Use

4. Wall-Mounted Cat Tree

This one’s clever and space-saving. Perfect for apartments or homes where floor space is precious. It’s like building a jungle gym—but on your wall.

Cats love vertical exploration, and you’ll love how tidy it looks.

How to Make It

Use floating shelves or wooden planks with wall-mounting brackets.
Mount them in a staggered “staircase” pattern so your cat can climb easily.
Secure each shelf into studs with long screws—don’t use adhesive or drywall anchors alone.
Attach carpet or anti-slip mats to each platform to prevent slipping.
Add a wall-mounted scratching board or a hanging toy for extra fun.
Finish by testing the strength—press down firmly on each level before letting your cat try it.

5. Cat Tree with Flower Platforms

Want something cute and whimsical? This one’s a dream for cottagecore, pastel, or playful interiors. The flower-shaped steps add charm while giving your kitty fun places to jump and nap.

It’s functional but also acts as decor.

How to Make It

Start with a solid square base and vertical post (use a standard wood post or even a large PVC pipe filled with sand for weight).
Cut out platform tops in flower shapes using a jigsaw and thick plywood. You can draw large petals or use a printable flower template.
Paint them in soft pastel colors using non-toxic paint. Let them dry fully.
Wrap the post with sisal rope halfway up and leave some sections smooth for painting or stickers.
Screw the flower platforms into the post at varying heights.
Add flower-patterned cushions or glue round fleece pads at the center of each flower for your cat to sit on.

6. Modern Aesthetic Cat Tree

This one’s made to blend in with stylish interiors. If you’re into clean lines, neutral colors, and furniture that doesn’t scream “pet stuff,” this is the way to go.

It’s perfect for city apartments or homes with a minimalist vibe.

How to Make It

Use high-quality plywood or MDF to cut out square or rounded platforms.
Build a sleek vertical structure using a central support beam (a painted 2×4 works well).
Cover platforms with neutral fabrics like gray felt, cream fleece, or light wood grain contact paper.
Keep everything simple—no frilly edges or bold prints.
Screw in the platforms at 90° angles to create a step-ladder effect.
Use black or metal brackets if exposed—they add to the modern feel.
Make sure the base is heavy enough or mount the tree to a wall for stability.

7. Bookshelf Cat Tree Hack

If you’ve got an unused or old bookshelf gathering dust, turn it into a multi-level cat wonderland. This hack saves money and gives new life to old furniture.

It works best with sturdy shelves that can hold some bouncing and climbing.

How to Make It

Pick a tall, wide shelf with at least 3-4 tiers.
Cut circular or square holes in the shelves so your cat can move from level to level.
Line each shelf with foam or folded towels.
Wrap one side post with sisal rope or attach a vertical scratch board to it.
Add toys that hang from the top shelf using string or Velcro.
For bonus points, glue a basket or cushioned bed on the top shelf as a lounging zone.
Paint or refinish the shelf if needed to match your space.

8. DIY Boho Cat Tree

This one is all about cozy, earthy textures. Think natural materials, soft colors, and relaxed vibes. It doesn’t just work as a cat tree—it also doubles as a decor piece.

Your cat gets a fun place to chill, and your space gets an upgrade.

How to Make It

Use a driftwood branch or light-colored wood as the main structure.
Build a wooden base and attach the branch with screws and brackets.
Instead of flat platforms, hang rattan baskets or macramé hammocks from the branch.
Line the baskets with soft throw blankets or faux sheepskin.
Wrap jute rope or sisal around parts of the branch.
Decorate with neutral tones like beige, soft green, or dusty pink.
You can even hang a boho garland or tassels off the sides for extra style.

9. Outdoor Cat Tree House

This one’s a backyard paradise. Cats that love being outside will enjoy climbing, napping in the sun, and hiding in shaded corners. Just make sure it’s built to survive the weather.

It can sit on a porch, in a catio, or even under a tree.

How to Make It

Use treated wood or cedar for weather resistance.
Build a strong base with corner posts and attach a few platforms at different levels.
Include a roof made of plywood and waterproof shingles.
Add a ramp or rope bridge between levels for fun movement.
Make a shaded area with a small wooden box or hideaway with a soft mat inside.
Anchor everything to the ground or wall so it doesn’t tip in wind.
Optional: use pet-safe outdoor paint to match your yard or fence.