Let’s face it, it’s a fact of life – cats just love to climb. Unfortunately, if you don’t give them their own special spaces to climb on, they will climb your furniture and cabinets – which can mean scratches and damage to finished surfaces. Take heart, however, there are some really super solutions available. You can create places for your cat to climb to new heights and in high style. Let me show you how.
• Kitty Shelf
Here’s a simple and budget-friendly way to give your kitty a climbing spot of their very own. Give him or her a specially placed kitty shelf. It can be as simple or ornate as you’d like. Just use brackets and a shelving surface that complements your decor and lifestyle. You can even place a soft piece of carpet on top of the shelf for warmth and comfort. Locate the shelf at jumping height and your cat will instantly have a haven of their own and a safe place where they can escape the family dog.
• Climbing Trail
Why not take your kitty shelf to the next level – literally? Create a climbing trail with a series of small shelves staggered at different heights that lead to a final destination. End the trail of shelves with a slice of kitty heaven for your furry little friend – a high, wide perch and a pillow from which your cat can look down to survey their kingdom.
Just pick an out-of-the-way space for your cat to climb until they’re heart is content – like at the end of a hallway or alongside and over a closet door. Your cat will love you for it.
• Cat Condo
If you are looking for something a little more comfy, create a cat condo on a wall as a lofty place for kitty to relax. You can purchase a high-styled, ready-made sleeping alcove, or you can build a basic wood box, finish it and mount it on the wall. Then pop in a plush pillow or cushion that matches the color palette in your space for a cozy place for your kitty to cuddle.
Check out the Cat Climbing 101 ideabook on Houzz for terrific examples of these great ideas. From cat shelves to wall-mounted kitty condos, whether you purchase them or make them yourself, you can give your feline friend fabulous places to climb that can fit into your home decor and lifestyle.