How to Build a Cat Window Box Cat Enclosure – DIY
Building your own cat window box can be a simple DIY project and provide a great reward for your indoor cat. Many people residing in an apartment building or with little outdoor space can build a cat window cat enclosure to allow their cats to bask in the sun and get some fresh air.
Since all windows have different dimensions, this article will outline the basic steps for building a cat window box, allowing you to tailor the design to your window measurements.
The easiest type of window to work with is a sash window. These are old style windows that slide up. However, if you have a different type of window, don’t despair, you can still build a cat window box, though you may need to get a little more creative.
It’s a good idea to put the cat in another room while you do this, especially if she’s bold and likely to find and open a window too tempting.
Grab a tape measure, pencil, and paper, and prepare your cut list. Once the room is secure, open the window. Use the tape measure to accurately measure the width of the opening and consider how tall you intend to make the box. Will it be tall enough for your cat to stand on? Will it allow you to clean it from time to time?
Consider how much you want the box to protrude from the interior wall of the house. You will need two pieces of plywood, one for the floor of the cat cage and one for the window frame. You will need to reduce the width dimensions of the window frame to allow the finished box to slide in and out of the window frame without damaging it.
Most large DIY stores or lumber dealers can cut the ply to your size. It’s worth doing this for yourself, as the result is likely to be more accurate than trying to cut it with a handsaw at home.
You will also need to purchase lumber for the rails that the window box will sit on outside of the window and the fasteners and screws to secure the entire structure in place.
Next, you’ll enclose the frame with mesh and secure it to your window frame for added durability. This way you can avoid using ugly brackets.
Cut the mesh to size with the appropriate tool; nylon shears or wire shears. Staple the mesh to the frame using about one staple every inch. Check the entire assembly for sharp parts such as nail splinters or mesh.
Open the window and insert your cat’s window box into the opening. It should stay in place without any additional fixing. If you have sash windows, closing the window at the top of the box will keep it secure, but in some cases you’ll need to screw the inside to the window.
Give your cat a couple of days to get used to her new cat window box. I have never seen a cat that ultimately didn’t love their new outdoor cat enclosure.