No Drill Cat Shelf in 2022
image by: K&H Creative Solutions
Do you want to install cat shelving without the drilling, screws, or searching for studs?
Maybe you live in an apartment or rental that doesn’t allow for any changes to the walls?
Our rental friendly solutions will get your cat vertical in no time, and maybe even give your room an aesthetic boost!
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No Drilling Required
Since we don’t want to make a hole in the wall, and command strips won’t work, we’ll have to get a little creative with what we use as shelving. We don’t recommend purchasing the no drill floating cat wall shelves as they can be unsafe for your cat. They don’t offer enough support to hold your kitty’s weight especially when cats are jumping or playing. We’ve categorized some safe solutions below depending on the best fit for you and your cat.
Fastest option: Hanging Condo
Did you know there are hanging cat condos that can fit right over your door? This option requires almost no time to set up and is a great space saver! Our recommended option is made with durable material that can handle the wear and tear from your cats. It also has complete interior access to all levels.
Pro tip: Make sure to take measurements of your door before purchasing to make sure the hanging condo fits!
Why we love it:
Super easy to install
Major space saver
Easy to store away when not in use
Tools:
None, you just need to have a door!
What to buy:
Best looking option: Bookshelf Cat Tree
Integrate cat spaces into an existing bookshelf! This is an excellent way to give your cat more space without creating holes in your wall. You can make a fun kitty playground by placing a cat tree next to your bookshelf. This creates an easy to navigate territory for your cat and gives them access to new spaces in your home.
Pro tip: We recommend spacing the cat tree about 12”-16” from your bookshelf, the vertical spacing between the top of the cat tree and your bookshelf should be about 12”-18” to ensure an easy jump for your cat.
You can also add a comfortable basket on top of your bookshelf as a nice cat cove to sleep in. We like this felt one from Amazon. It looks stylish but is also comfortable for your cat. Ikea also makes cubby cat houses that fit most bookcases. You can also add some carpet to the top of your bookshelf which gives your cat extra grip and a place to nap.
There are even bookshelves that are designed exclusively for your cat! This one from The Refined Feline is super stylish, it’s sure to impress you and your cat.
Why we love it:
You can use existing furniture
Cats get access to new areas of your home
Fun DIY project!
Tools:
None
What to buy:
Cheapest option: Window Perch
These cat shelves attach to any glass surface, like a window, with strong suction cups! These are super handy if you can’t drill into your walls and also give your cat an excellent view for watching the world go by. You can buy multiple and configure them in any way you like. There are double stacked window perches like the one pictured below, great for a multi cat household. You can also purchase ones that fold down when not in use so you can close the blinds on your window. We recommend this one from Amazon.
Pro Tip: make sure you wipe down your windows with window cleaner prior to adding the shelves. You’ll want to make sure the surface you stick them to is clean to maximize the suction seal.
Why we love it:
The closest you can get to a no drill cat shelf
Cats get a great view
Works with most windows
Tools:
Window Cleaner
Paper towels
What to buy:
