How to Build a Cozy Cat Hideaway
Create a comfy, private retreat for your feline friend with basic items from the hardware store.
Shain Rievley
Materials Needed
- 4x8 sheet 1/2" nontoxic plywood
- circular saw
- wood glue
- (4) 90-degree corner clamps
- brad nail gun
- 1-1/4” brad nails
- 6” hole saw
- sandpaper
- wood filler
- (2) mini door hinges
- hook and staple latch
- screwdriver
- drawer pull
- paint drop cloth (optional)
- paint roller and tray (optional)
- zero-VOC water-based paint (optional)
Cut List
- top and bottom: (2) 14.5” x 14.75” plywood pieces
- sides: (2) 14.75” x 14.75” plywood pieces
- front: (1) 14.5” x 15.75” plywood piece
- back: (1) 13.5” x 14.75” plywood piece
Cut the Wood
Be sure to choose chemical-free, nontoxic plywood for any projects where pets are involved. Use a circular saw to cut the 1/2" thick plywood into six pieces for the box (see cut list above). If you don’t have a circular saw or aren’t comfortable making the cuts, have the plywood cut to size at the store.
Shain Rievley
Build a Box
Use right-angle clamps to hold the bottom piece and one of the side pieces together (Image 1). Add wood glue to the seam before you tighten everything up. Use the brad nail gun to secure the pieces together with 1-1/4” nails (Image 2). Repeat the process with the second side piece to create a “U” shape (Image 3). Attach the top piece using the same method to make a box (Image 4).
Shain Rievley
Shain Rievley
Shain Rievley
Shain Rievley
Drill a Hole
Use a 6” hole saw bit attached to a drill to create a circular opening on the front piece so your cat can easily go in and out of the hideaway (Image 1). Sand until smooth (Image 2). Tip: Place scrap wood underneath the plywood while you drill to prevent splintering. Use clamps to hold everything in place.
Shain Rievley
Shain Rievley
Attach the Front
Flip the box so the front is on top. Add wood glue along the edges and carefully line up the corners of the front piece to the corners of the box so everything is even. Nail in place.
Shain Rievley
Attach the Back
Add a hook and staple latch to the back of the box. Attach the back piece to the box with small hinges (Image 1). A cute leather pull will make opening it simple (Image 2).
Shain Rievley
Shain Rievley
Add a Coat of Paint (Optional)
Patch nail holes with wood putty (Image 1). Leave your cat hideaway natural or paint to coordinate with surroundings (Image 2). We color matched paint (SW-7012) to an existing bookcase in the space. Be sure to use pet-safe, zero-VOC paint.
Shain Rievley
Shain Rievley
Make It Cozy
Add a blanket or cushion to make your feline friend's new retreat super comfy and inviting.
Shain Rievley
