Cats love windows. They don’t just sit there for the view — they watch birds, soak up sunbeams, and silently judge the neighborhood. If your cat’s favorite activity is staring out the window, as if it’s their full-time job, a window perch is the ultimate upgrade. The good news? You don’t need to spend a fortune. You can make one yourself — sturdy, cozy, and totally cat-approved. Here’s how.
What You’ll Need
You don’t need fancy tools or pro carpentry skills. Just grab:
- A sturdy wooden board (around 18–24 inches wide)
- Soft padding or a small pet bed
- Fabric or a pillowcase (optional, for style)
- Heavy-duty L-brackets (2 to 4, depending on size)
- Screws and wall anchors
- A drill and screwdriver
- Measuring tape and pencil
Step 1: Choose the Window
Pick a window your cat already loves. Make sure the wall underneath can support a small shelf — avoid windows over radiators or unstable drywall.
Step 2: Measure and Cut Your Board
Measure the width of the window and how far out you want the perch to extend. A depth of 12 inches is usually enough. Cut your wooden board to fit, or have it cut at the hardware store.
Step 3: Add Comfort
Glue or staple padding to the board. You can wrap it in soft fabric or just lay down a small bed or blanket—bonus points for machine-washable materials.
Step 4: Attach the Brackets
Mark where the brackets will go under the board. Attach them to the wall with screws and wall anchors (if needed), then screw the board onto the top of the brackets. Make sure it’s level and stable — no wobbles.
Step 5: Safety Check
Give it a shake. Sit on it (gently) if you’re small enough. If it can’t hold your weight, it definitely shouldn’t hold your cat’s. Reinforce as needed.
Optional Upgrades
- Add a sisal-wrapped post under the perch for scratching.
- Use Velcro to secure the bed to the board so it doesn’t slide.
- Paint or stain the wood to match your home.
That’s it — your cat now has their dream hangout spot. Expect long naps, intense bird-watching, and maybe a little smugness. You built this. They’ll pretend it was their idea. Everyone wins.
Ready to level up their space even more? Add some wall-mounted shelves nearby and make a full-on feline jungle gym. But for now, kick back and enjoy the view — just like your cat.