Everyone knows a cat's capriciousness - sometimes even the most beautiful house from a human point of view is ignored by furry fussy creatures, preferring to sleep on the floor, on a bed, or in a refrigerator box. To avoid this and not bump into a sleeping cat in the most unexpected places, you should pay attention to cat hammocks.
Hammock for cats with battery
Beige hammock for cat
How to sew a comfortable cat bed with your own hands
Before you start making a bed with your own hands, you need to decide on the model, size, and also choose a suitable material that can be easily washed and cleaned, removing dead hairs and accumulated dust. There are the following options for “beds” for cats found in stores:
- Basket with pillow. It is safe and ventilated due to the many holes, but not very durable, since animals like to chew on rods.
- The lounger is made of plastic and a soft base. Durable, easy to clean if necessary, but the material has a specific odor and increased electrolysis.
- Donut shaped bed. It resembles a pillow with sides, is made of soft fabric with padding, and is comfortable for your pet. It has only one drawback - it is recommended to remove the filling when washing.
- Hammock. A simple design that is installed at a low height from the floor, most often between the legs of a chair. Not very suitable for small kittens and older pets.
- Little house. This is a closed version of the bed in which the cat can feel safe.
- A lounger that resembles a pipe. Warm version. Can be installed as a suspension to the battery.
- Combined varieties. These include, for example, a hammock with a canopy, a donut with a folding roof, etc.
It is more economical and reliable to make a cat bed yourself, focusing on the preferences of the pet, its dimensions and the interior of the room in which it is planned to install the structure. It is recommended to use non-toxic and natural materials that your pet will like. For a soft base, it is best to take the following types of fabrics:
- cotton;
- linen;
- knitted;
- fleece;
- corduroy;
- plush;
- material from old jeans, faux fur coats, jumpers, sweaters, etc.
Construction instructions
For a novice builder, it would be best to choose a hammock option that involves a wooden frame. After all, wood is quite easy to process, and can also be purchased at any hardware store for mere pennies. It is recommended to make the frame according to a certain algorithm of actions .
- Creation of the main part. It will be located behind the radiator, so you don’t have to stand on ceremony with its appearance. However, it is this part that will bear the main load, so the part must be made with the highest possible quality. Dimensions are usually calculated based on the dimensions of the battery. However, in most cases it will be enough to connect two 30-centimeter slats and two 15-centimeter slats together in a rectangular shape. The cross-sectional area of the parts should be approximately 8 square centimeters.
- Attaching the rafters. As soon as the main part of the frame is ready, it is necessary to attach two more thick slats to it, onto which the hammock itself will later be attached. This part must be connected using several screws. The size of the slats is calculated based on the weight of the cat. They should be placed at a distance of 30 centimeters from each other and connected to each other by another transverse rail, which provides additional compaction and the ability to withstand heavy loads.
- Decorative works. As soon as the main frame and rafters are ready, you can begin decorative work. Here everything depends on the owner’s imagination and his capabilities. For example, you can upholster all the wooden parts with some beautiful fabric that matches the interior. Or decorate the tree with a beautiful design and then treat it with a burner. Some craftsmen even paint the parts in an antique style and attach various retro decorations to them to make the hammock frame look more luxurious. The choice is simply huge.
All that remains is to attach the hammock itself. This can be done using ordinary nylon ropes or any other material that is lying around the household. If it is possible to insert rings into the fabric, then you should use it. Thanks to such elements, the hammock can always be tightened so that the cat feels more comfortable on it.
Step-by-step production of a complex for two cats
When an owner has two cats, it is necessary to build a house for them taking into account their behavior, and so that they do not interfere with each other. The behavior of cats can be different: some cats are friends and easily get along on the same site, and there are times when one of them dominates. In this case, we can assume that one of them will want to take the most comfortable and highest place. If the cats are not friends, then it is better to separate the platforms, but if they are friends, then you can build one common, but large platform at the very top of the structure.
Materials and finished house
For this design, plywood up to 12 mm thick is suitable, as well as pillars made of wooden beams measuring 50 by 70 mm and at least 4 meters long. You will also need a jute-based carpet, about 2 and a half square meters, and a rope up to 20 meters long. Corners with a side of 15 by 20 mm for the house and 40 by 45 mm for attaching platforms are suitable as fasteners. For fastening to the wall, you can use a pair of large corners, measuring 50 by 50 mm.
Fastening the main elements
The basis is a structure consisting of 3 pillars of different heights: 220 cm, 120 cm and 80 cm. The pillars are securely attached to the base, which is a plywood sheet. These load-bearing elements are placed so that the longest one is as close to the wall as possible in order to securely secure the entire structure. The placement of the posts is marked directly on the plywood sheet using a pencil. The posts can be secured using long nails driven into the back of the sheet, but first holes of the appropriate diameter are drilled for them. For reliability, the pillars are fastened with metal corners of the appropriate size.
Marking
Using the same method, holes are marked in the platforms through which the pillars should pass. It is better to make the holes slightly larger than the size of the posts, since they are still attached using corners. If the holes turn out to be somewhat smaller, then they will then have to be further processed either with a file, or a jigsaw, or sandpaper.
Fastening platforms
Before attaching the platform, it should be tried on and, if necessary, adjusted to size. It is desirable that the platform, and all other elements, be fixed strictly horizontally. To do this, you can use a building level. For reliability, the platform is attached using corners. After this, all platforms are covered with carpet, and this must also be done reliably, otherwise the animals will tear it away from the base.
House assembly
The body of the house is assembled from 4 rectangular pieces of plywood, which serve as the walls of the house, and a hole should be cut in one of the rectangles so that the cat can crawl through it. For the floor and roof, another rectangular section is cut out. To connect all the elements of the house, it is enough to use small metal corners and self-tapping screws. The fasteners must be such that none of the elements, especially the sharp ones, come out, although many of the fastener elements will be located under the skin.
Ship assembly
The most important thing is not to forget to upholster the house from the inside, after which you can fasten the roof, which is also sheathed with the same material. The finished house is attached to the planned location using the same metal corners as in the case of platforms.
Wrapping ropes around poles
The last stage is wrapping the poles with ropes, which will serve as scratching posts for the animals. In addition, design elements for animals will be more attractive. Before wrapping the rope around the pole, it is secured with a bracket. Staples are also used for intermediate fastening of ropes, as well as for final fastening. The rope should be wound tightly, otherwise it will loosen over time. To prevent this from happening, each turn or several are compacted at once with a hammer.
Wrapping poles with ropes
Building a cat house with your own hands does not take much time and can take no more than half a day, although more complex designs take much longer. In the following video you can see how a similar structure is assembled.
How I built a cat house with my own hands. The cat is SHOCKED! /How To Make a Cat House
Watch this video on YouTube
Options for homemade hammocks
With such a hanging system you can save a lot of space in a small apartment. When planning to make a hammock for a cat with your own hands, the main thing is not to forget to take into account its size. For neutered cats, such a place to sleep is not a very successful idea because they are excessively large. Among other things, the rookery must be removable so that it can be cleaned.
There are about a hundred options for such a product. For its structure, fairly ordinary items are used that are at hand. Here are some of the easiest ways to make a cat hammock with your own hands and avoid additional costs.
Hammock for a cat made of hangers and fabric
To make such a rookery for your mustachioed friend, you need to decide on the location. It can be attached either under a table or under a chair. If the heating device is an old type, then it will also work. The production process is as follows:
- High-quality wooden hangers are selected so that they can support the weight of the pet. In this case, the base of the metal hook should rotate.
- Find a rectangular strip of brushed terry or synthetic fabric. The width depends on the size of the hanger.
- Fold the fabric over the hanger and stitch in this position. An alternative to this would be multiple loops.
- The hooks hook onto the cross slats under the table. In addition, you can attach a hammock for a cat to batteries. To do this, you need to find a small rod and thread it through the bottom to secure the hangers to it.
Of course, the bottom of the lounger can reach the floor surface, making this option suitable for small breeds or babies. But this is not a problem for mustachioed people with a playful character.
Frame models
First of all, it is necessary to prepare a frame of appropriate dimensions. By default, it must be square in shape, although unique models are made in the form of an oval or circle. Much depends on the capabilities of the owner. Will he be able to find such a blank or bend a rod (wire) in a similar way. When selecting the size of the bed, the specialist starts from:
- weight and size of the cat;
- heating device indicators;
- desired height of the object.
You can buy ready-made frames. If they are not there, then you should bend the metal rods. The corners are secured with specialized elbows or perfectly tightened wire. In this case, the edge should be hidden in such a way that the animal does not get hurt. The width of the hammock's mounting hooks on the heating device for the cat should match the thickness of the heating object. They can be created in rectangular or rounded shapes. Plus, you need a good supply. In the end, the lounger will not fly off if the child spins on it.
Wooden structures
Certain owners of luxury breeds use large and heavy beds. They think that a lovely pussy needs space for its own bathing procedures and relaxation. To make such a hanging corner, the master needs the following:
- Two boards: wooden stand and back. Other materials can be used, but they must be light and reliable.
- Sew a bag (the size of the board) from a pleasant fabric. Carefully invest in a foam or padding polyester layer and place it on a wooden frame. The edge needs to be sealed.
- Use chain, rods or wire as fasteners. These parts are attached to the back or base using self-drilling screws and other devices.
You can also purchase a large-diameter plumbing pipe. Cover it with fur coat on both sides (inner and outer). Attach rods along the rims of the pipe and cover them with fur inserts.
It is very rarely practiced to use a hammock for a cat on a window. It is held on by powerful suction cups. To create it, you need to find two brackets on iron cables that are attached to the rookery. Then make a frame from pipes and sew a fabric bedding. Screw two other suction cups to the holes on it. Attach the device to the window. So, an exquisite cat will be able to keep an eye on what is happening on the street.
A few simple tips can help you build a popular hammock for a cat on a radiator, thus providing it with the necessary place to rest.
Kinds
To understand what exactly you can do for your pet, you need to have an idea of what types of beds are. A bed can be a flat pillow of round, oval, square, and sometimes in the shape of a heart. Options with greater thickness are called poufs. These beds are denser, but no less comfortable for cats.
In addition to them, the bed can look like a small crib with sides. Here the form can be very diverse. As a rule, it is rare that a housewife chooses a simple basis when caring for her pet. Thematic products look much more interesting in the interior of the room, for example, in the form of a large shoe, pumpkin, book, soft toy. This is unusual, and cats have somewhere to hide, because many of them love to sit in ambush during games.
Some models are similar to a semi-house: such beds have not only a soft cushion and sides, but also a partial roof. Completely closed products imply the presence of a kind of hole with space inside for a comfortable position for the pet. The most open options are hammock beds.
Why is it needed?
Before you make such a simple design, you should find out why this thing is so necessary for animals. If you analyze their behavior, they often look for cozy places. This could be a pillow, a laundry basket, or a closet, but not in a sleeping bag specially made for them. Yes, and accustoming your “independent” pets to that place is not an easy task. They always look for soft and warm abodes, choosing what is comfortable for them, not for the owners.
In this regard, a hammock for a cat will be a real invention, because it:
- made of pleasant material;
- repeats the pose of a sleeping animal (most often it is a ball);
- mounted near a heat source.
In this area, your pet will not be disturbed by children or dogs. A calm and peaceful sleep is guaranteed to him. Now it is important to familiarize yourself with some varieties of such unusual lodges.
Purpose of the design
Any pet tries to find a cozy place to rest. Often the choice of a pet does not coincide with the preferences of the owner, because not every owner will allow the cat to sleep on his bed or some other furniture. In this situation, the most appropriate option is to provide the animal with an alternative.
Of course, it is best to make a cat bed with your own hands. It will not be difficult for even a novice craftswoman to create a pattern for the product. The point is not only about saving money, but the owner will be able to independently select fabric and other safe materials for making the structure, taking into account the pet’s habits. It should be noted that a cat can chew and scratch the upholstery, so it is not recommended to use velor and other materials with long pile for sewing.
It is best to make a place for a cat to rest from materials that are resistant to damage and easy to wash. As you know, cats shed, so the bed will need to be periodically cleaned of hair and debris that the animal may carry on its paws. In addition, some pets have the habit of bringing food to the bed. You need to understand that this design is a subject of constant use.
Materials and tools for manufacturing
To make a hammock for a cat with your own hands, you should first decide what materials can be used for this. However, you need to focus not on some offers from the Internet, but on the opportunities that the pet owner has. Fortunately, the choice in this regard is simply huge. To make the body, you can use wood, metal, plastic, or even make a hanging hammock. The main thing is that the design is as reliable as possible.
However, we should not forget that each person is responsible for the one he has tamed. Therefore, it is recommended to use only really high quality materials to make a hammock.
Otherwise, the pet may break the structure and be seriously injured as a result of the fall. So, if a person has extra pieces of wooden slats lying around at home, this does not mean that they can be used.
With the list of tools, everything is extremely simple - their choice depends entirely on what materials you plan to use in the process. For example, if the owner decides to make a hammock from a wooden frame, then it would be best to get an electric jigsaw, which will allow you to cut out the necessary pieces and plan them thoroughly. But when creating a metal frame, it is unlikely that you will be able to do without a grinder and a welding machine.
Knitted round bed
If you still have unnecessary sweaters, but have free time, you can use them on a cheesecake bed for your cat. You don’t even have to knit everything yourself: the base of the work is already ready. Cut off the collar of the sweater, sew up the neckline with strong thread and lay a stitch over the chest at the same width as the sleeves - these are the future sides of the couch.
Fill the sleeves and the resulting hole with holofiber or padding polyester in a circle, monitoring the even distribution of the filler. To strengthen the bottom, cut out a shape from thick cardboard or thin plywood. It will be more comfortable for the cat if you put a thin layer of litter or an old towel inside.
Sew all the edges and then loop the tightly stuffed sleeves around the bottom to make an impromptu cheesecake. Make sure that there are no sloppy folds or seals anywhere. You can sew all the details directly on a machine or even manually using strong nylon or silk thread.
Toilets and mats
High sided tray
Spacious cat litter box with removable grid.
Price: from 1,295 rubles.
Buy
Round tray
A simple round tray for small cats or kittens.
Price: 692 rubles.
Buy
Toilet tray
Tray insert for installation directly on the toilet. May be useful for those who have little space in the toilet.
Price: 2,201 rubles.
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Rug
A rug with a special texture that collects leftover litter from cat paws.
Price: 579 rubles.
Buy
Cat bed with sides
Such models are not only the easiest to make, but also quite beautiful. They are made in several variations. You can make a cat bed with a short side on one edge and a soft pillow. The “crib” with a removable pillow is very easy to care for, because it can be pulled out and cleaned at any time.
First, let's determine the size of the future cat's place and the dimensions of the pet. Using these data, let’s take:
- Textile;
- Thick cardboard;
- Handle;
- Ruler;
- A piece of padding polyester or foam rubber;
- A needle and thread to match the color of the fabric.
Let's start the pattern making process:
- Cut out a long strip from cardboard (part A), then an oval (part B);
- The width of the strip is equal to the height of the side of the bed, and its length corresponds to the size of the circumference of the oval (do not forget to allow an allowance of 1-2 cm).
Now a master class on sewing a crib with sides:
- Let's prepare two patterns: A-side, B-bottom;
- We stitch the two elongated sides of the side, turn the part right out;
- Cut out a rectangle of the required shape and size from foam rubber and insert it into the side. Hand sew the edges of the side;
- We will select a strong thick fabric to make the bottom or put an oval shape cut from plywood or cardboard between the bottom blanks;
- Let's sew the bottom to the side;
- We sew a pillowcase: cut out 2 oval-shaped parts according to the pattern, connect their sides;
- We fill the pillowcase with foam rubber or synthetic padding, sew in a zipper or sew it by hand, and place the pillow in the crib.
You can also make an elegant cat bed in the shape of a heart.
If the animal is fluffy and does not like heat, the sides are made lower. If your pet is short-haired and often freezes, make the sides higher and fill the bottom more tightly with filler.
Things to remember
To ensure that your pet likes the hammock and is functional, follow the following rules when making it:
- Consider the size of the bed and the weight of the cat. For a small kitten it should not be large, but for large animals it should not be small and flimsy.
- Use non-electrifying materials. The best option is scraps of old thick fabric.
- Remember the tastes of your furry pet. When a cat prefers to sleep on a closet, place the bed high, and for an animal that chooses secluded places and semi-darkness, a warm corner is suitable.
The bed must be comfortable, safe and convenient. Most pets love soft bedding and various pillows. This will be a great base for a hammock. If the cat does not often sleep on pillows, the bottom of the bed may become harder. The manufacturing material should be easy to clean from dust, dirt, and wool. Dust should not accumulate on the bed - this will negatively affect the health of the animal. A do-it-yourself bed should match the interior of the house or apartment.
A cat is a full member of the family, so you should properly arrange its personal space. A sun lounger on a radiator is one of the most common options. It is easy to make, convenient, and loved by many animals.
from a sweater, on a battery and other options
As soon as a furry pet appears in the house, the question immediately arises about the need to arrange a sleeping place for it. Of course, it is not a fact that the cat will sleep in the place designated for it, but it should have its own territory. Today we will talk about how to make a cat bed with your own hands.
Text content
Primary requirements
Taking into account the behavior and character of representatives of the cat family, a bed for them must meet a number of requirements:
- made of durable materials that can withstand cat scratching;
- subject to regular washing;
- easy to clean from hair;
- if possible, harmonize with the overall style of the interior.
Video “Comfortable sleeping place for a cat”
From this video you will learn how to make a comfortable cat bed with your own hands.
How to sew it yourself
In order to make a comfortable and practical bed for a cat, it is not at all necessary to go to the store for a special fabric - the materials at hand that are in every home will do: any old thing that lies idle in the closet will do.
Tools and materials
Even if you don’t have a sewing machine at your disposal, you can quite cope with sewing a bed - just a little imagination and a little free time. To make a personal cat place, any box of suitable size, pillow, mattress or basket is quite suitable; you can use old sweaters or leftover upholstery fabric.
Sewing instructions
So, we prepare two pieces of dense fabric (approximate size 100x90 cm) and a filler of your choice (for example, padding polyester). Before making a pattern, carefully measure the cat and make sure that the specified size will be enough for her. We transfer the pattern to the fabric and cut out 2 blanks. From the remaining fabric we cut out 8 long ribbons.
Now it's time to connect both parts by placing ribbons between them. Next, you should sew the entire perimeter of the future bed, leaving 12 cm on each side for filling. The bed is almost ready - all that remains is to turn the piece inside out, fill it with synthetic padding (trying to put more filler in the sides so that they are rigid) and stitch the bottom.
Now you can sew up the holes left for stuffing and tie the ribbons - a comfortable and beautiful bed is ready!
How to make something out of old things
First we make the base: one piece of foam rubber is divided lengthwise into two equal parts, from the second we will cut out the base for the sides. The size of the bed depends on how large your cat is. When cutting out the base, you can slightly round the edges - this will make the lounger look neater. We cut out two pieces from the knitwear, focusing on the size of the bottom, sew them together, turn them inside out and put them on a foam base. We sew up the remaining hole - the base of the bed is ready, all that remains is to attach the sides to it.
We fold the scarf lengthwise and stitch it, making a kind of pipe. We fill it with rectangular pieces of foam rubber, achieving the required length of the side, focusing on the circumference of the base. We sew the edges of the pipe together, forming a closed ring, and sew the resulting side to the bottom.
Battery cover
Cats tend to sleep on warm radiators, especially with the arrival of winter. Why not take advantage of this habit of pets and build them an unusual hanging bed? This will be a simple structure, consisting of a hard base and a soft mattress, which is attached to a heating radiator.
First you need to build a wooden frame, guided by the structural features of your batteries
It is important that the structure adheres well to the radiator - the cat, when jumping onto the bed, should not throw it off. Now we sew a rectangular bag from thick fabric, which we put on the frame, and fill it with foam rubber
We sew up the hole - and that’s it, the hanging bed is ready!
All that remains is to put it on the radiator and invite the purr to enjoy its new cozy place.
Additional ideas
The unlimited imagination of the owners allows them to arrange a place for their pet to relax using absolutely different materials. You just need to look around carefully and, at the same time, take a closer look at the animals’ favorite places to sleep.
Ideas for places where you can arrange beds for your pet:
For many animal lovers, cats are full members of the family. This means that if each member of the household has his own sleeping place, then the pet should also have a bed. We offer you several ways to make a cat sofa yourself.
A cat bed must meet several requirements at once:
1. It should be easy to wash;
2. Do not accumulate too much dust;
3. Be comfortable for the pet;
4. Be safe for the animal.
After carefully assessing all these characteristics, one detail often goes unnoticed - the cat's sleeping area should be made in a style that matches the entire interior. This is not always easy, it will require your imagination and some skills if you want to make it yourself, but the result will please both you and your pet.
The first thing that comes to mind when thinking about how to make a cat bed is creating a beautiful pillow. It seems that it is not difficult to sew such a product from a suitable fabric. Indeed, the correct selection of colors allows you to combine this accessory with any interior style. But it is worth considering that it is much more comfortable for pets to sleep on beds that have a depression in the center - a kind of cozy nest, so the pillow should not be stuffed too tightly. It is better if the sofa for the cat has soft sides, then the pet will be able to take everyone’s favorite sleeping position - curl up. Such a bed will be both comfortable and beautiful.
A cat sofa made from an old suitcase is perfect for a vintage style interior. Moreover, the more unusual and antique the suitcase, the more interesting the bed will look. Making a bed like this for a pet is not difficult, as can be seen from the photographs above. Legs are attached to the suitcase (although you can do without them) and a comfortable pillow is placed inside. Vintage cat bed is ready!
Does your cat like to lounge on the sofa? Provide a special place for her in it, as in the next photo. Any pet will love such a secluded corner, and the owners are nearby.
Most long-tailed pranksters love to hide under blankets and climb behind furniture. Help them feel just as comfortable in their home. This fun sandwich style cat bed is sure to become your furry pet's favorite place to relax.
Set up a house for your cat with a bed, disguised as a bedside table. You can do the same with other suitable interior items: flower pots, cabinets and armchairs.
Since a cat is a full-fledged member of the family, it needs furniture similar to human furniture. Then why not make a bed - a copy of the master's? Add a mattress, sheets and pillow and use the crib to create a unique decor for your bedroom.
A DIY cat bed with battery mount is a great idea for the cold season. Here your pet will always be warm, and cats love it (that’s why they snuggle up to the radiator in winter without any devices), and softly.
Some cats like to sleep lounging, and several portable bed options have already been invented for them. For example, a hammock, as in the next photo, of course, is not suitable for all animals, but some cats will be delighted with such a sleeping place.
Simpler hammocks made of elastic materials are suitable for owners who are thinking about how to make a cat bed quickly and without wasting time and money. You just need to stretch the fabric between the legs of the coffee table and show your pet how comfortable and cozy it can be to sit there. In the interior, such a find will look harmonious.
Since long-tailed pets love to climb mazes, you can plan to make more than one sofa for the cat, but several pieces throughout the maze from shelves on the walls or a separate massive structure. Then the cats will be able to rest, a little tired from playing.
It is good to use wicker baskets for making a cat bed. Such accessories are appropriate in country, Provence, and rustic styles.
Some cats like beds made of wood with a fairly hard surface. This bed is compatible with many modern interior styles.
What kind of hammocks do cats like?
To choose a hammock for your purr, first of all, you need to decide on its size. Typically, cats fall asleep curled up in a ball, taking up very little space. However, during sleep, especially if the pet becomes hot, it sometimes stretches out to its full length. If the hammock is not large enough, a sleeping cat may fall out of it. If it is secured high enough, the cat may get scared and even get injured. After such stress, she is unlikely to want to settle down in such an unreliable sleeping place.
When choosing a hammock, you should also pay attention to the material from which it is made. Many owners are tempted by a hammock made of nylon or thick satin, since it is easier to clean it from the hair that gradually accumulates on it.
But cats don’t like smooth and slippery material at all, preferring to settle on soft plush or faux fur.
Another selection criterion should be the strength of the structure.
If there is even the slightest doubt about the quality of the hammock you like, it is better to pay attention to another model. If the frame or the bed itself breaks down, the cat that has fallen from it most often will not trust this sleeping place, even if it has already been thoroughly repaired
The attitude towards a broken device will change dramatically. You also need to remember the weight of your pet. It is clear that for a giant cat of the Maine Coon breed, you will need a structure much stronger than for the average purr.
Creating Drawings
Once the choice of materials is completed, you can begin the process of making a hammock for a cat on a radiator with your own hands. However, in order not to make mistakes during the work process, you should draw up drawings in advance, according to which all actions will be carried out. They must be made with the highest possible quality, because even the slightest error in calculations can lead to the fact that some of the parts simply do not fit together. Besides, no one wants to run into shortages of materials during the process. So first you should carefully calculate everything, and only then start the work itself.
The location in which all construction work will take place also plays an important role. It is very important that no one interferes with the master during the process, otherwise he risks making mistakes in the calculations. A regular desk from which all foreign objects have been removed in advance is best suited.
Types of beds, their advantages and disadvantages
There is a huge variety of models of pet beds. They all differ in shade, type, size, but these are only external differences.
Each type of bed has both pros and cons:
Wicker basket with soft lining. Such a bed is good because it is well ventilated and always remains dry, but the cat may like to brush its teeth on the material from which the basket is woven, and then, after a while, the bed will look unpresentable.
Plastic beds with a pillow are good because they are easy to wipe and wash without using special detergents.
The bed in the form of a pillow is made of durable fabric and filled with padding polyester. This bed is easy to wash.
Houses for cats are a very convenient device. Cats love to relax in a completely protected and confined space.
In addition to those listed, there are mixed types of sun loungers, for example, a pillow with a folding top and the like.
Tunnels and toys
Game tunnel
A collapsible tunnel that cats love to hide in.
Price: 763 rubles.
Buy
Radio controlled mouse
Mouse on wheels, controlled by remote control.
Price: 472 rubles.
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Gutter with ball
A pyramid of gutters with balls inside that will interest your pet.
Price: 509 rubles.
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Clockwork Mouse
A realistic dummy of a mechanical mouse.
Price: 72 rubles.
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Laser pointer
Laser projection of a mouse for outdoor games with a cat.
Price: 86 rubles.
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Mouse in the maze
A toy with a spinning mouse inside. And on the soft platform above you can lie down comfortably.
Price: 661 rubles.
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What is a cat hammock
The hanging bed, invented by man, has been modified by pet product manufacturers. Now it is offered for the needs of pets. A cat hammock is a bed made of sagging soft fabric suspended on a frame made of wood or metal. This type of bed is suitable for your pet if she likes to sleep on a bed that sinks under her weight.
A classic hammock, suspended by opposite ends on rope knots, is too mobile. The animal takes a long time to get used to it. Having gotten used to it, he spends all his free time from playing in the hanging bed. When the cat wakes up and stretches sleepily, the hammock swings and lulls it to sleep.
Shape and size of a hammock for a cat
The rectangular mesh or fabric in a regular hammock is stretched along the edges over two wooden slats or a strong rope. Cords are threaded evenly into each plank. The rope belay is located inside the entire panel and is collected into bundles on two opposite sides of the hammock. They are fitted with steel rings, with the help of which the entire structure is supported on a massive support made of wood or steel. For animals, slightly sagging beds with fabric covered with a supporting frame over the entire size of the product are preferable.
Pet supply stores offer hammocks of different designs, the types of which depend on the location of the hammock model. They have one thing in common: the bed is firmly fixed to the support so that the animal does not fall out of it or along with it. The fabric of the sleeping place is most often removable; it is regularly washed or cleaned with a vacuum cleaner.
Types of hammocks by location:
- on glass indoors or in a car;
- on a rope post in the play complex;
- on a plate heating radiator;
- floor with stand;
- under the chair;
- on the wall.
The shape of the cat hammock follows the position of the animal in sleep, if it is round. But most models have a square or rectangular shape so that a sleeping cat can stretch and not fall out of the hammock. The frame of the hanging lounger is made of wood or metal. The fabric is most often stretched with loops and Velcro sewn to it. In some models, the ropes are located inside the hammock panel and extend out, forming part of the fasteners.
A sagging hammock in the shape of a circle with a diameter of 38–40 cm is intended for mounting in a play complex on a claw post. If the fabric of the lounger is stretched over a wide hoop, its dimensions increase to 67 cm in diameter. This wall-mounted hammock will support the weight of a Maine Coon. The design of the lounger resembles a basketball basket.
A hanging bed for a heating radiator is a frame made of steel pipes on which fabric is stretched. The shape resembles a chair seat with a backrest. The dimensions of the hammock vary from 48x28x30 cm for a plate radiator and 55x55x35 cm for a cast iron one.
hammock on the radiator - a warm resting place for a cat
Hammocks for adult domestic cats weighing 3–7 kg have a bed size of 38–45 cm in diameter and 48x35 cm for rectangular designs.
Floor hammocks for cats are located on stands made of bent wood in the shape of an arc or an inverted rocker. They are held at the bottom by parallel crossbars. The parts are fastened with metal rivets. The height of the structure above the floor is 35 cm with a width of 71 cm. The size of the hanging bed made of linen fabric is 45x35 cm, into which wooden slats are inserted along the edges. To reduce the swaying of the hammock, both slats are placed in the center on hooks screwed into the frame arch.
Why does a cat need a hammock?
A hanging hammock hanging under a chair or small table gives the tailed observer the opportunity to see everything that is happening, while remaining hidden from prying eyes. This appeals to cats who like to hide and attack from hiding unexpectedly. An open bed located on the windowsill will allow the animal to bask in the sun. In addition, this design takes up less space.
To transport a domestic cat in a car, a synthetic hammock with three silicone suction cups is used, which are attached to clean glass. The animal can travel with its owner. The shape of the frame follows the volume of the body of a lying pet.
the cat rides in a car, lying comfortably in a hammock
A hanging hammock on a heating system radiator is successfully used in the summer for cats to relax in the fresh air, if it is secured to the railing of an open balcony in an apartment building.
Fabric base
The most universal option when selecting the necessary fabric is jeans, flannel, calico, and felt fabric. In general, judging by the reviews of hammocks for cats, a natural base is welcome. It is very practical to use old unnecessary things for making.
In the first case, this is a hammock on a chair:
- Initially, a hammock is cut to size between the legs. The presence of sufficiently dense material provides only one layer. The thinness of the material will require making several layers using one pattern. In addition, padding polyester can be useful for insulating a bed;
- The pattern facing out should be finished with finishing fabric using bias tape;
- The Velcro will then need to be stitched. These can also be thick tapes that will be used to attach the hammock to a piece of furniture.
In the second option, a hammock is made, which is subsequently placed on a frame base. It’s good when the fabric covers the entire frame along with the side and the bed. It will be much more comfortable and soft for the cat. You will need main fabric, lining fabric and a zipper for fastening.
Procedure:
- The length is measured and must be multiplied by two;
- After measuring the width, the hammock is cut out with seam allowances of one and a half centimeters;
- Having folded the material with the front part inward, it is stitched along each of the three sides. If the fabric frays a lot, it is better to use an overlocker;
- The rectangle is then turned inside out to form the base;
- The filling is measured in length and width, then stitched and inserted into the inside of the base;
- A lock is built into the open edge.
If you get the taste, then it’s worth continuing what you started. For example, come up with something new and interesting for the design of the hammock you made. What do you like best?
This can be original embroidery, stylish appliqué, or any other option for applying your skills in needlework. The choice is always yours.
Considering the value at all times of work done by hand yourself, this version of the craft can be appreciated as a wonderful gift for any cat lover - for a colleague, friend or beloved neighbor.
Cat sofa gathered with ribbon bows
To sew a cat bed with your own hands, you need to take:
- fabric in two colors, used can be used;
- ribbons to match the main colors - ready-made or made independently from fabric;
- padding polyester;
- sewing tool.
Master class: how to sew a cat bed
The pattern must be made keeping the proportions suggested below. Decide on the size of the sleeping area for animals yourself, depending on the dimensions.
On the cut out parts, mark the places for threading the ribbons.
Sew around the perimeter of the sofa, leaving 12 cm open areas on each side for filling.
Turn the product inside out.
Fill all areas with filler, paying special attention to the side walls, since maintaining the shape of the sofa depends on their stability. Sew along the perimeter of the bottom pillow, sew up the remaining open areas with a hand blind seam
Sew along the perimeter of the bottom pillow, sew up the remaining open areas with a hand-blind stitch.
Tuck the side walls and tie the ribbons, securing the connection. The bed is ready!
How to make something out of old things
Using the example of our master class, it is not difficult to sew a bed with your own hands from an old sweater:
- We hide the high collar of the sweater inside and sew up the neck tightly (we do this manually, from the inside with a machine seam). We turn the product inside out.
- From the point of the right armpit of the sweater, we draw a small curve upward in a small arc to the point of the second armpit. Using a machine stitch, we sew along the basting along the front side.
- Insert padding polyester into the resulting pipe on both sides to give it shape. These are the sides of the future bed. Now loop the pipe by sewing two cuffs together and sew them in a circle to the body of the sweater.
- Inside the sweater we put a small pillow of any shape you choose and sew together both lower parts of the sweater.
- To hide flaws on the seams, they can be covered by decorating them with a lace frill, satin ribbon, or silk cord.
Hanging product
If you don’t want to spend a lot of time making a frame, you can create a hammock that is attached to the ceiling or other object with ropes. This option is perfect not only for the windowsill, but also for almost any other place where a cat likes to sit. The manufacturing instructions are as follows.
- We connect four not too thick slats together in the shape of a rectangle. It is best to use small screws for this. However, if you don’t have a screwdriver on your household, ordinary nails will do just fine. All connecting work must be carried out with the highest quality possible so that the pet does not later get hurt on something sharp.
- We nail any fabric you like to the resulting rectangle. The main thing is that it can withstand the weight of the pet and not become too electrified. This can be done using small nails or a stapler (if we are talking about making a hammock for a kitten).
- It is necessary to make several holes in the corners of the structure into which a thick rope or clothesline will be threaded. You can also insert some parts with rings into the board so that at any time you can remove the hammock from the ropes and place it in another place.
After this, all that remains is to screw a few anchor bolts into the ceiling and tie a rope to them. It is best to do this in places where the pet can get to without much difficulty. And if the owner of the apartment does not want to make holes in the ceiling, then you can buy special suction cups in the store and attach the hammock to the glass window. In this case, the fastening will be done with only two ropes, and steel suction cups can be placed on the corners of the structure and also attached to the glass.
For an experienced builder, making hammocks is not difficult. However, beginners will be able to understand the principle after the first time, after which they will begin to improve the existing design in different ways.
Mandatory nuances
In order for the finished structure to fully suit the pet for whom it was made, it is necessary to take into account three main nuances before manufacturing, which many novice builders simply forget about and then regret. So that you don’t have to waste materials, and your cat enjoys lying in the hammock, you should remember three important rules:
- The size of the hammock should match the size of the pet. That is, for a big cat it should be quite spacious, and for a small kitten it should be small. Otherwise, the pet will feel uncomfortable. So you shouldn’t save too much on materials or make a crib “to grow.”
- It is necessary to choose a fabric that does not electrify. Jeans scraps are best suited for this purpose, because they are not only very durable, but also do not receive a charge of electricity when an animal rubs against them. However, other decorative options besides silk are also suitable.
- Pet tastes . It is worth considering the preferences of cats. It is not at all necessary to make a hammock that will hang on the radiator. After all, some cats like to fall asleep on the closet, while others prefer fresh air on the balcony. So it’s worth thinking carefully about which design the cat will like the most.
You can consider the option of making not just a hammock, but an entire cat house that has a wall and a roof. This design may also have a suspension and several shelves, with enough space to accommodate absolutely all pets. This option is ideal for those owners who keep several cats at home.
What is a cat bed and why is it needed?
A cat bed is a place where the cat will sleep (rest). A bed is sometimes called a crib. Such beds are usually installed next to the cat's house or scratching post. After all, the pet must understand where its territory is located. The bed should be in a warm and dry place. In addition, the chosen place should be cozy. If the cat does not like the bed, it will choose another place to sleep and rest, and the bed will remain untouched.
The bed should be comfortable and cozy
When choosing a bed, you need to take into account the cat's preferences. If your pet chooses soft places to sleep (sofa, chair, etc.), then the lounger should be soft. If a cat likes to sleep on your fur coat, then the bed should be fluffy
In addition, it is important to consider the place where the animal likes to sleep. So, if the cat likes to sleep, for example, under the table, then the purchased crib can be placed under the table
Later, when the cat gets used to its bed, it can be moved.
Why a hammock?
A cat hammock has specific benefits that make it more enticing for both humans and their pets.
Unlike people, it is important for cats that their sleeping place perfectly follows the shape of their body. A soft bed will lead to curvature of the spine in a person, but for a cat it will be the most comfortable and convenient option. A hammock is best suited for this purpose.
The hammock can easily be placed in a secluded place. If for some reason the cat doesn’t like it, you can move it somewhere else without any problems. Under a chair or under a table, on a radiator or right up to the ceiling - there’s plenty of space for a hammock everywhere.
It’s very easy to make a hammock for a cat with your own hands; you don’t need much experience or specific knowledge. Enough accuracy and patience.
There are many hammock options. For the simplest of them, you only need a piece of fabric and thread with a needle.
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What should a place to relax be like?
Having decided what the place to sleep should be, you need to take into account its placement. A quiet corner of a distant room or a place near a window is suitable for this (even the window sill itself can serve as the basis for a sleeping lounger).
Taking into account the cat's needs, the resting place should be:
- as high as possible (cats love heights);
- necessarily soft (they are known couch potatoes);
- preferably warm (a place near the radiator);
- be sure to be quiet (sleep is health).
If we take into account the owner’s wishes, we will add to this list:
- environmentally friendly (wooden surfaces should not be treated with paint or varnish);
- made from materials that are easy to wash (with spare covers).
Advantages and disadvantages
The hammock is simple and easy to use, but the main thing is that you don’t need to accustom your cat to it. She will immediately understand that lying in a warm nest that takes the shape of her body is more comfortable than lying on a hard, flat surface. The undeniable advantage of the compact model is the ability to free up space that was previously occupied by a bed made from scrap materials.
A hammock will come in handy at any time of the year. In winter, the cat will bask in it, and in summer, it will escape the heat next to the cold metal. Owners will be relieved of the need to frequently clean furniture and clothing from adhering wool. If the hammock is temporarily not needed, it can be easily removed and stored.
Such products also have disadvantages, and it is better to think about them in advance. So, staying near a heating device for a long time leads to the animal overheating. Jumping out into the yard or onto the balcony to cool off, the cat may get sick. The second serious disadvantage is the drying out of the wool. Because of this, pets sometimes begin to shed prematurely, and this is not the only possible problem.
To play it safe, you should consult a veterinarian. If the cat has recently been operated on or suffers from a chronic disease, it is better to place the rookery at a decent distance from the heating structure.
Car transport device
Hammocks are used to transport cats that do not like containers and do not feel comfortable in confined spaces.
A car hammock for transporting cats is made of fabric and attached to the headrests, which are installed on the backs of the seats. Since the car is in motion, the structure needs strong fastenings so that the animal does not get injured during turns.
To make such a device yourself, you need to sew it from thick, waterproof fabric and add strong straps. The work is carried out according to the following scheme:
The straps must be made with special length adjustment so as not to remove the headrest every time you travel with your pet
To work you will need the following tools:
- scissors;
- threads;
- lightning;
- strap for shoulder straps;
- plastic strap length adjusters;
- ruler.
After the fabric is cut, the parts need to be sewn. The result should be a hanging place, as in the picture.
In such a hammock, the cat is securely covered on the sides and does not feel trapped
You can also knit or crochet a hanging bed using macrame and tie it under a chair, coffee table or in a closet. The pet will definitely appreciate the care and efforts of the owners, and will love this comfortable, safe place to sleep and relax.
For rats and hamsters
There is a wide variety of hammocks for small rodents. They can be simple, not even requiring sewing. It is enough to tie a piece of fabric to the bars of the cage.
You can very easily make a hammock from old jeans. The manufacturing process is simple. A piece of about 20 cm is cut from the leg of the old jeans.
The fabric is pierced on the front side with a large paper clip, which is attached to the bars of the cage. The front of the trousers is smaller than the back, creating a double hammock.
Its lower part serves as a house for the animal.
The following fabric materials are usually used to create a hammock:
Sometimes these two materials are combined in one product. There is a colorful piece of cotton on the outside and fleece on the inside.
Necessary tools for making hammocks for small rodents:
Fleece is an ideal material for creating a rat hammock. It is soft and warm. The animals will be comfortable in it. When cutting, there is no need to process the edges of the product, because the fleece does not fray. You will also need:
- tapes for making loops.
- carbines,
- padding polyester
By following step-by-step instructions, you can easily make a beautiful hammock:
- Two pieces of fabric of different colors measuring 20x24 cm are cut out.
- Ribbons 20 cm long are prepared. You will need 4 of them.
- The ribbons are folded in half and sewn to each corner of the first piece. The tape extends 3.5 cm onto the corner. At each corner there are 2 free ends of the tape.
- Both parts overlap each other.
- The sides can be sewn by hand using a blanket stitch, or machine stitched from the reverse side. In this case, an unstitched area is left through which the product is turned right side out. To stitch the product by hand, threads of a contrasting color are used.
- A carabiner is placed on one of the straps in each corner. The two free ends of the braid at each corner are stitched together. It turns out to be a loop.
- Excess tape is cut off.
For insulation, you can put padding polyester or cotton wool inside.
If you are sewing a hanging bed for a dwarf hamster, take into account that loosely woven fabrics cannot be used. The ideal material would be tent material.
The following materials and tools are used for manufacturing:
Step-by-step instructions will help you quickly and efficiently sew a hammock:
- 2 squares of 15x15 cm are cut out from the main fabric and 1 square from padding polyester.
- The braid is cut into 4 pieces. Each is 30 cm long.
- The pieces of fabric are folded with the wrong sides facing each other. A padding polyester is laid between them.
- The sections are edged with braid so that there is free braid on both sides.
- The carabiner is inserted between the two ends of the loose tape at each corner.
- The fitting is done in a cage and the length of the loops is adjusted. Excess braid is cut off.
- The loops are sewn on a sewing machine.
- Allowances are cut close to the stitching.
This hammock is suitable for a small dwarf. The Sirmian hamster will feel comfortable in a larger cradle. In this case, squares with a side of 20 cm are cut out of fabric.
Making a hammock with your own hands is not difficult. It will be original, beautiful and reliable. By showing your imagination, you can create a unique device for the animal to rest.
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