I modified this store-bought cat tower for a New Orleans apartment. I spray painted and attached a pair of folding shutters (that I had on hand from a pile a neighbor tossed out). When closed, they give the cat a place to ‘hide’ as well as obscuring the utilitarian tower when guests come over. Spray painting the shutters was easy as getting a smooth even coat was not the goal. 'Weathered' look for shabby chic.
Using the included hardware, I installed a pair of Allen Roth 8X10 wall shelves (sold as a set at Lowes $17) and added decorative brackets (Lowes $3each) for extra support as well as looks. The wood trim is sold as a single unfinished piece at Lowes for just under $10. I painted, cut and attached it to the shelves with liquid nails (this adhesive must be clamped while drying). Although both shelves are capable of supporting the weight of an average cat, one shelf was just slightly less sturdy, so I placed the wood trim along the back of that shelf. The cat could certainly still step over it, of course. I trimmed the outer edge of the other shelf and glued a piece of inexpensive outdoor mat to the top for better traction should the cat decide to perch on it.
The post (unfinished porch railing piece @ Lowes $4) was originally added as a place to attach the bottom of the inside brackets. Ultimately, the 10 inch shelves didn’t allow that but attaching the brackets just under the shelves provided enough support. I left the post in place for looks as well as a place to give this New Orleans Cat House a ‘legal address. That was done using a strip of white contact paper trimmed using decorative edge scrapbook scissors. Once in place, I painted the strip with some antique white tempera paint to age it.
This is what I used to attach the plastic cups (light fixtures). I learned that eye or cup hooks don’t work with hex or wing nuts. The threads are different. Hooks are meant to go into a wall or board. Lowes clerk found these small gadgets (not sure what they are, but they worked in holding the cup hook secure inside the cups). A small bolt would have probably worked to hold the dandling cat toy, but the cup hook was easier.
Everything for the sign (including the sign) was purchased at Hobby Lobby Craft Store
top part of shelf with mat
What is the French Quarter without a little left over Mardi Gras trash? The cups are secured with small wood screws and the cellophane paper is just tucked in. It could possibly be a choking hazard if the cat chews on it, so use it only with supervision. The cups provide a place to play ‘hide and seek’ with small toys and then become storage when the lids are on.
Checking it out
Taking this as a sign of approval. Tinsel garland was removed when chewing became an issue. It was an easy project as, with the exception of the shelves and post, nothing had to be plumb or level. The top of the shutters are not even but that's part of the charm. I just had to make sure they were high enough not to drag on the floor.
