Question about making scratching posts:

how do you put the carpet on? I've searched, but I haven't really found an answer. Do you use really strong glue, tape, staples, etc.? I'm thinking glue, since I'm having images of the cat pulling the carpet off the box or wood, tape stuck to it, or pulling the carpet off the box or wood and the staples are still stuck to it, and the cat can hurt itself.

Also, I'm using a bookshelf that I don't use anymore. Right now, it's sitting under my bed (I have a tall bed, lol) with just clothes on it. And I haven't worn those clothes in years. The only problem is the type of shelves it has.


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The spaces between the boards is large enough that I can stuff one finger in there (playtime!) but small enough that the cat shouldn't have troubles tripping or falling through the cracks. Will it be fine for a scratching post?

I use hot glue to get it into place, then attach more firmly with wood staples and a staple gun. Unless you have a great gun, tap the staples firmly into place with a hammer. You don't want the cats pulling the carpet away and cutting themselves on the staples.

I've tried glue alone and it isn't strong enough to hold the carpet. Your cats will have it pulled off in a few days.

Originally posted by Aussie_Dog
The spaces between the boards is large enough that I can stuff one finger in there (playtime!) but small enough that the cat shouldn't have troubles tripping or falling through the cracks. Will it be fine for a scratching post?

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Are you covering this with carpet? I'm not sure how to answer your question cause I'm not sure what your plans are for this.

yeah, I'm covering it with carpet. I just finished putting it on the top shelf (theres two) and right now we're waiting for the smell to disappear. I'll try staples too, just in case. I used the glue that you use for wood and cement, since I don't have hot glue. Thanks!

We'd love pictures when you are done! I think it will make a great scratch place. Let us know how they like it please.

just a suggestion, I've never made a scratching post before, but I know that those black drywall screws are great for attaching stuff. They are strong, drill into pine like butter and with a few grommets I bet that it would take a lion to pull the carpet away from that.

Sang

Originally posted by Sang72
just a suggestion, I've never made a scratching post before, but I know that those black drywall screws are great for attaching stuff. They are strong, drill into pine like butter and with a few grommets I bet that it would take a lion to pull the carpet away from that.

Sang

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never heard that before... I'm not sure we have them (i'm a girl, whaddya expect? lol), but I can ask my parents. So far, it seems to be holding well, though the cats aren't using it. I'm guessing they're not comfortable with it yet, it being new, so I added walls to the bookcase (out of cardboard) and used loads and loads of tape. Its one great big wad of tape, with a scratching post "floor" on top, but its like a cave inside, so alls well

I build them as a sideline hobby. You'll want to use either an electric (Home Depot/Lowes about 25 bucks) or pneumatic staple gun. Use long (3-3 and a half inch) deck screws on anything that is a support and drywall screws for the landings. I glue mine as well. Be sure and allow enough carpet for the overlap, and the thickest plywood you can afford and have fun with it. I really enjoy making them.

Oh and 1 more thing, if it's going to be free standing a large base is a good idea. I use 24X24 inches for stability.

Enjoy.

Jeff

Originally posted by grampngram

Oh and 1 more thing, if it's going to be free standing a large base is a good idea. I use 24X24 inches for stability.

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I use at least 3/4 inch plywood for a base, and use 24X24 for a scratch post, and up to 30X30 for a tall cat tree.

Being in earthquake country I always suggest that anything over about 50 inches tall be secured to a wall for safety. I have 1 whole end of the patio set up as a kitty gym, and it sits on 24X24's and is anchored to the support posts in about 8 places. If it's free standing I agree that 30X30 is safer, but I'd still anchor it.