Cat Trees And Paint

[BlackCatMama]

Hi! I’m new to this site, but I’m trying to gather up some information on making cat trees.

First of all, are there any paints that are specifically designed to be pet friendly? My kitties love scratching wood posts, but I’m afraid of the paint flaking off and causing any health issues.

Secondly, kitty safe glues? Any recommendations?

And last but not least, are there any woods I should avoid? That may sound a little paranoid, but I’d really like to cover all my bases.

Thank y’all in advance!

Madison

 

[blueyedgirl5946]

I's sorry I don't know any answers for you. I just wanted to say what a great project and I hope you will show us some pictures as you progress.

 

[BlackCatMama]

If I can figure out all these details, I will! Thank you!

 

[Furballsmom]

Low VOC, for sure, but a Sherwin Williams or similar paint store could tell you, they're coming up with new things all the time.
Also a good lumber yard can help a lot, as could an ace hardware or true value on the glue. Good luck!

 

[BlackCatMama]

Thank you!!

 

[1CatOverTheLine]

.
BlackCatMama - The chap you want to talk with is Shane Kent - who will no doubt pop in here as soon as he sees this call. Shane's done all the research, from formaldehyde content in pressboard and flakeboard to adhesives details and carpet backings, and he designs and engineers his own cat trees.
.

 

[Shane Kent]

Furballsmom - Is right, a decent hardware with lumber, etc store should be able to help. I use solvent free, low voc carpet glue. And let it air out for a few days in a well vented space.

Cover both the carpet backing and wood using disposable plastic putty knifes the stuff is thick and messy. Both surfaces for a strong bond so cats can beat the heck out of it.

Same goes with the wood, you don’t want wood that gives off strong gas from glue. Old repurposed wood wood be best. And you want a decent quality carpet because the work that goes into making them you want it to last.

I use clamps and wood to hold carpet firmly while it sets. Clamps and counter weights.

 

[vyger]

There are glues, paints and finishes that are food safe. I would imagine that those that are approved for food should be OK for cats.

 

[LTS3]

Can you just leave the wood unfinished? If you choose a nice looking type of wood that hasn't been treated with chemcials, it wouldn't look too bad in your home.

I'm sure you can find many DIY instructions online on how to make a cat tree yourself with pieces of wood from a hardware store or lumber yard or even pieces of real tree limbs found in the woods.

 

[FakeGourmet]

My late brother made our cat posts (they are now with my sister). He used ordinary wood and covered EVERY surface with either that thick rope or carpeting. Unless you have an infant cat who tends to chew, you can use ordinary materials. If you are buying new carpeting, ask for something with low de-gassing. Even the big box hardware stores will have carpet that is suitable at a low cost.

 

[BlackCatMama]

Can you just leave the wood unfinished? If you choose a nice looking type of wood that hasn't been treated with chemcials, it wouldn't look too bad in your home.

I'm sure you can find many DIY instructions online on how to make a cat tree yourself with pieces of wood from a hardware store or lumber yard or even pieces of real tree limbs found in the woods.

I can, I’m just wondering was my options are

 

[vyger]

I can, I’m just wondering was my options are

When they make cutting boards all they do is treat them with a food safe oil. The oil helps the wood to stand up all the knife action and water and washing.