ᐅ Has anyone ever built a cat hideout using a KALLAX shelving unit?
Created on: 10 Dec 2024 18:37
A
Agron33Hello everyone,
I have a special question for all cat owners and IKEA fans here in the forum: Has anyone ever built a cat cave from the popular KALLAX shelving unit?
I’m fascinated by the idea of turning such a simple shelf into a cozy retreat for cats. I’m particularly interested in how practical and sturdy the whole setup is. What materials did you use to create the opening? And how did you upgrade the shelf so that it remains visually appealing while also meeting the requirements of a cat cave (for example, in terms of scratching surfaces, cushions, or safety)?
If you have tips on specific dimensions, suitable accessories, or mounting, I would be very grateful! Looking forward to hearing about your experiences, as I want to try it myself soon but am not sure if there’s anything important to keep in mind.
I have a special question for all cat owners and IKEA fans here in the forum: Has anyone ever built a cat cave from the popular KALLAX shelving unit?
I’m fascinated by the idea of turning such a simple shelf into a cozy retreat for cats. I’m particularly interested in how practical and sturdy the whole setup is. What materials did you use to create the opening? And how did you upgrade the shelf so that it remains visually appealing while also meeting the requirements of a cat cave (for example, in terms of scratching surfaces, cushions, or safety)?
If you have tips on specific dimensions, suitable accessories, or mounting, I would be very grateful! Looking forward to hearing about your experiences, as I want to try it myself soon but am not sure if there’s anything important to keep in mind.
Hello Agron33,
I have actually experimented several times with turning a KALLAX into a cat den. The biggest challenge is stability since the KALLAX was originally designed as a shelf for books and light storage, not as a standalone piece of furniture for pets.
I would recommend reinforcing the individual compartments with wooden panels, as they can bend under the weight of active cats. Specifically, I use plywood at least 12 mm (1/2 inch) thick, securely fastened with screws to stabilize the entire unit.
Regarding the opening: some use round cutouts, others prefer square ones, but all should have rounded edges to prevent injuries. A well-fitting cushion inside the box is essential; I use foam with a removable cover so it can be washed.
I usually attach scratching elements on the outside—for example, sisal rope wrapped around the edges of the shelf—to help maintain the structure. Keep in mind that cats like to jump on the shelf, so the KALLAX should be very stable or even secured to the wall.
If you like, feel free to share more details about your cat and the planned location. Then I can provide more specific advice.
I have actually experimented several times with turning a KALLAX into a cat den. The biggest challenge is stability since the KALLAX was originally designed as a shelf for books and light storage, not as a standalone piece of furniture for pets.
I would recommend reinforcing the individual compartments with wooden panels, as they can bend under the weight of active cats. Specifically, I use plywood at least 12 mm (1/2 inch) thick, securely fastened with screws to stabilize the entire unit.
Regarding the opening: some use round cutouts, others prefer square ones, but all should have rounded edges to prevent injuries. A well-fitting cushion inside the box is essential; I use foam with a removable cover so it can be washed.
I usually attach scratching elements on the outside—for example, sisal rope wrapped around the edges of the shelf—to help maintain the structure. Keep in mind that cats like to jump on the shelf, so the KALLAX should be very stable or even secured to the wall.
If you like, feel free to share more details about your cat and the planned location. Then I can provide more specific advice.
Good evening,
I agree with Filippo’s advice, especially regarding the stabilization.
A practical tip: If you plan to use the lower compartment as a cat cave, make sure that the shelf—if used freestanding—is secured to the wall with brackets. Cats love to jump on top, which can otherwise cause the KALLAX to tip over.
Additionally, I recommend using a cushion or mattress with a warm cover for the cave opening. An opening of about 30 x 30 cm (12 x 12 inches) works well for entry.
It is also important that the material of the cave is non-toxic for cats and as easy to clean as possible, as otherwise it can quickly become unpleasant.
I agree with Filippo’s advice, especially regarding the stabilization.
A practical tip: If you plan to use the lower compartment as a cat cave, make sure that the shelf—if used freestanding—is secured to the wall with brackets. Cats love to jump on top, which can otherwise cause the KALLAX to tip over.
Additionally, I recommend using a cushion or mattress with a warm cover for the cave opening. An opening of about 30 x 30 cm (12 x 12 inches) works well for entry.
It is also important that the material of the cave is non-toxic for cats and as easy to clean as possible, as otherwise it can quickly become unpleasant.
Great to see that some experiences have already been shared here!
I find that especially important. At first, my cat hardly used the new hideaway until I placed a particularly cozy and warm cushion inside.
From an emotional perspective, such a snug retreat is invaluable for cats because they need places where they can feel safe. If you have other tips on how to make the hideout more cat-friendly, I’m very interested.
In my initial attempts, I worried whether the cat would jump up and down from the shelf and potentially fall. But with a secure construction and some patience, it worked out quite well.
Filippo schrieb:
A well-fitting cushion in the box is essential; I use foam with a removable cover, so it stays washable.
I find that especially important. At first, my cat hardly used the new hideaway until I placed a particularly cozy and warm cushion inside.
From an emotional perspective, such a snug retreat is invaluable for cats because they need places where they can feel safe. If you have other tips on how to make the hideout more cat-friendly, I’m very interested.
In my initial attempts, I worried whether the cat would jump up and down from the shelf and potentially fall. But with a secure construction and some patience, it worked out quite well.
Thanks in advance for the helpful answers!
That sounds doable – did you do it all by yourself or did a friend or family member help?
That’s important—I was thinking I might not need to attach it to the wall, but safety comes first.
My cat is quite large and very agile, so I’m considering making several levels with caves—putting two KALLAX units side by side and possibly connecting them. Has anyone had experience with that?
Also, I’d like to know whether you covered the caves with blankets or left them open. How do cats usually react to that?
lisku schrieb:
For the hole, I used a jigsaw and smoothed the edges with sandpaper.
That sounds doable – did you do it all by yourself or did a friend or family member help?
blapau schrieb:
A practical tip: If you plan to use the bottom shelf as a cat cave, make sure to secure the shelf to the wall with brackets if it’s freestanding.
That’s important—I was thinking I might not need to attach it to the wall, but safety comes first.
My cat is quite large and very agile, so I’m considering making several levels with caves—putting two KALLAX units side by side and possibly connecting them. Has anyone had experience with that?
Also, I’d like to know whether you covered the caves with blankets or left them open. How do cats usually react to that?
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