Is your cat constantly climbing on furniture, shelves, or anything that gives them the high ground? ๐พ Instead of battling for space on your bookcase, why not build them their very own DIY outdoor cat tower? Itโs a fun weekend project that gives your kitty a safe, sturdy place to climb, nap, and rule their outdoor kingdom. Not only is it great exercise and enrichment, but this DIY outdoor cat tower is budget-friendly, customizable, and easy to make using a few basic materials and a sprinkle of creativity. Letโs dive in and start building your catโs new favorite hangout spot!
Step-by-Step Guide to Building a DIY Outdoor Cat Tower
Ready to get building? Hereโs everything youโll need to make your catโs dream tower come to life!
Materials Youโll Need

-
Timber post (3×3″) โ forms the towerโs vertical supports.
-
Fence post spike โ secures the post into the ground.
-
Decking tiles โ perfect as sturdy platforms for perches.
-
Artificial grass โ adds grip + comfort for climbing and lounging.
-
Screws + brackets for fixing.
-
Drill, screwdriver, saw if needed.
Step-by-Step instructions to build Your DIY Outdoor Cat Tower
-
Secure the Base
-
Place your post spike into the ground and hammer it firmly.
-
Insert the timber post into the spike and tighten the bolts.

-
-
Add the Platforms
-
Fix decking tiles at staggered heights along the post.
-
These become climbing levels and lounging spots.

-
-
Wrap with Grass or Rope
-
Cover part of the timber with artificial grass (or sisal rope) to double as a scratching surface.

-
-
Top Perch = Cat Throne
-
Add one large decking tile at the top as a wide viewing platform.
-
Optional: add a small cushion for comfort.
-
-
Final Touches
-
Sand edges for safety.
-
Decorate with cat-safe plants around the base.
-
Test stability before letting your cat explore.
Safety Tips
-
Always check for wobbling.
-
Use outdoor-friendly, weatherproof materials.
-
Keep tower in a shaded, safe spot of the garden.
Cats love enrichment, whether itโs climbing their very own DIY cat tower or being spoiled with homemade cat treats fresh from your kitchen.
๐พ Final Touches: Keep Your Cat Safe and Happy
Once your DIY outdoor cat tower is built, take a moment to make sure itโs secure and weatherproof. Add cozy bedding or a small cat shelter on top so your feline friend can lounge like royalty while staying comfy. Regularly check the posts and platforms for loose screws or wobbles โ after all, even the best climbers need a sturdy base!
If youโre feeling inspired to expand your catโs kingdom, check out our Whiskernest Cat Picks for more pawsome furniture ideas and accessories that your kitty will adore.
-
-

๐พ About the Author

Denise Shafto โ Cat enthusiast & founder of Whiskernest
Denise shares cozy tips, practical guides, and cat-approved finds to help whiskered friends live their best nine lives. When sheโs not writing, sheโs usually testing new toys with her own mischievous felines.
๐ Follow on Pinterest
๐ Shop Cat Picks
๐พ WhiskerNest Cat Picks
Our favorite finds for happy, healthy cats โ chosen by Snowflake & Twilight! ๐บ



