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Hi. I'm Frankie Kangas. I love cats -- both domestics and big cats. My husband and I have had feline roomates... (more...)
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Cat Trees: The Ultimate Furniture For Pampered Cats
Pet furniture: cat trees, cat beds, window perches, condos, and scratching posts to pamper your cat -- you'll find everything here you need to know to buy the best. With reviews of each with pictures and all purchase information and great prices. And, I'll cover how to repair them or build your own cat trees. You'll find fun photos and videos too.
Cat trees and scratching posts are a must have for every cat. They provide a place for rest, but more importantly, they provide a place for exercise -- playing, climbing, stretching. They are also wonderful places for your cat to scratch, which exercises his paws, shoulders and arms and saves your furniture. Your cat will love to climb to the highest place to look down upon his domain as well.
How Cats Use Cat Trees -- Any Way They Want
Pictures Showing How Cats Use Cat Trees
As you can see by the pictures, cat trees are used in different ways by cats. They sleep on them, look down from them, play with toys, relax, meditate and use as a scrathing post. Check the one(s) that most describe how your cat(s) use their trees the most.
3 Reasons Why Cats Scratch
Or Why Felix Shreads Your Furniture
Cats were deadly hunters before they were domesticated. Their claws helped them climb trees so they could pounce down on their prey. Even though the house cat doesn't need this capability now, they still sharpen their claws by scratching for 3 other reasons:
(1) Scratching keep their nails healthy by removing the outer part of the nails.
(2) Cats mark their territory, whether indoors or out. When they scratch, special scent glands in their paws leave a scent marking the spot as theirs.
(3) Scratching and stretching as they scratch works the kinks out and tones muscles much like stretching does for humans.
You cannot stop a cat from scratching, however, you can train them to use a scratching post (see section called: Teach Your Cat Where To Scratch) and provide them with a good scratching post (see section called: The Best Scratching Post For The Pampered Cat)
Carpet Vs. Sisal On Cat Trees
Which Is Better?
Most cat scratching posts and trees are covered with carpet or wrapped with sisal rope. But which is better?Benefits Of Sisal And Carpet
Both are pretty durable and both condition your felines nails. Sisal is touted as being superior to carpet because carpet can snap nails. Also some people say that having the tree made of carpet encourages your cat(s) to scratch your other carpeted surfaces.
Give Them Both
I've found that having both sisal and carpet the way to go. Some of my cats prefer one over the other. And, I try to have the cat tree's carpet a different color to keep it separate in the minds of the cats. My cats get trained early and I keep on them (just like with kids) to make sure they do their scratching on the posts or trees NOT my furniture or carpets.
The picture at the left is the bottom of my 8 foot tree, which I've had for 15 years. The carpet came off the leg after 12 years and we wrapped it with sisal rope, which you can see is coming off -- however, that is probably because we did it ourselves and didn't really do a good job. But you can see carpet lasts a long, long time. Keep in mind as you look at this picture that we've had any where from 5 to 13 (with fosters) cats at one time using this tree over the 15 years.
How To Select The Best Cat Tree For Your Cat
The Things A Scratching Post Should Have
A good scratching post will be one that your cat will constantly be on. They will use it for sleeping, playing, and scratching. Here are some things to keep in mind when selecting one for your feline.(1) It should be several inches taller than your cat stretched out fully standing on his hind legs. This gives him the best stretch and really exercises his body.
(2) It should be made of a carpet -- nothing longer than a very short shag -- or sisal rope. Better yet, have some of each. Your cat may prefer rope one day and the carpet the next.
(3) Ideally, the tree you choose has at least 1 level with a perch. Cats love to be high and look down. 2 or more will allow him to jump and climb keeping him entertained and exercised.
Extra Items to treat your cat:
(A) An enclosure of some type like a triangle or box. Cats love to be enclosed yet be able to see who's approaching them or get out quickly.
(B) A rope hanging down with a ball or toy attached him another item to play with and exercise.
(C) A very tall -- say 7 or 8 feet -- cat tree with a landing spot on top is a cat's favorite spot. It allows him to look down on his domain and no one can reach him thus he'll feel completely safe to cat nap.
Don't underestimate how much pleasure your cat will get from a cat tree. Oh, yeah, you'll want to keep your camera handy so you can take pictures when they do something fun.
24" Tall, California Kitty Condo
A Place To Hide And A Place To Play And Nap
For more information and/or to purchase click Claw Pals California Kitty Condo
26" Tall, 3-Level Cat Tree
B2501 Cat Tree
This cat tree is made of pressed wood and comes in Sky Blue, Faux Fleece with a base board size of 20" X 14".
The overall size of this 3-level cat tree is 24" long, 14" wide, and 26" Tall. It has 1 perch, 2 posts (wrapped in Sisal).
The tree is easy to assemble and comes with step-by-step instructions and tools. The maximum holding weight is 15 lbs. Suggested Retail Price: $99. Your Price: approx. $49.
Free Shipping to Continental US. For more information and/or to purchase click Cat Tree 01.
Kittens Sleep Whereever They Happen To Be At The Time
There's No Such Thing As An Uncomfortable Spot When You're Sleepy
I Can't Keep My Eyes Open Any Longer
Teach Your Cat Where To Scratch
Cat Trees Great For Scratching
You may think that rolling your cat up like this little guy will stop them from scratching your furniture but it won't last. Cats are clever and they'll find their way out of these devices. The best thing to keep cats from clawing your furniture and to buy them their own furniture.Cat trees are a great way for your cats to exercise they paws and sharpen their nails. Train your cat when he's just a kitten that this is where she should scratch, not the couch. How do you do that?
1. As soon as you get your cat or cat tree, introduce your cat to it. Let her get explore it and get used to it.
2. After a short introductory time, if she has not started scratching on her own, take her paws and gently but firmly mimic scratching the tree (actually rubbing the tree with her paws). You'll probaby have to do this more many times. Kitten tend to learn fast, some don't even have to be shown, they just start reaching up and scratching on their own.
3. Whenever your cat scratches your sofa or someplace else you don't want her to scratch, say "no" as you pick her up, then carry her to the cat tree and take her paws and mimic the scratching again.
This sequence may have to be done many, many times. But it is worth it. It'll save your furniture and a cat tree is a safe and good spot for her to scratch.
29" Tall, 3-Level Cat Tree
A3003 Cat Tree
This 3-level, pink faux fur cat bed features 1 perch and 6 posts, 3 of which are wapped in Sisal. The pressed wood structure has a 16" base and is 19" long, 19" wide and 29" tall.
It is easy to assemble with step-by-step instructions and tools provided. The maximum weight it holds is 15 lbs. Suggested Retail Price: $99. Your price is approx. $45.
Free Shipping to Continental US. For more information or to purchase click Cat Tree 02.
32" Ultimate Scratching Post
The Winner Of Cat Fancy's Editor's Choice Award!
SmartCat Ultimate Scratching Post (32"). Winner of the 2004 Cat Fancy Editor's Choice award! Fibrous and durable sisal material naturally inspires scratching. Perfect for conditioning nails and allows the cat to stretch vertically while using the post (important for territorial marking purposes and for toning muscles. The finest materials and workmanship guarantee a scratching post that will remain attractive and useful. $69.95 approx.
For more information and/or to purchase click SmartCat Ultimate Scratching Post
Jumbo Cat Condo
A Place To Hide And A Place To Sit
We have one of these. I sit on it with Snoball, my FIV cat (who lives in my huge garage until she can be tested again), in my lap for a good rub and brush 2 to 3 times a day. My husband (180#) also sits on it with her. It is extremely sturdy!
Offered in assorted colors. Let us select one for you. $39.95 approx.
For more information and/or to purchase click Classy Kitty Jumbo Cat Condo
Places Cats Like To Sleep
Cats Can And Will Sleep Anywhere And Everywhere
(Bruce) Lee likes to get in drawers and sleep
(Commander) Kira likes to sleep in anything soft she can find like my husband's jacket
This kitten finds her mother's back the most comfortable place to sleep
Claw Pal 33" Cat Tree With Mult-Coverings
Carpet And Sisal Cat Tree
Claw Pals 33" Multi-textured cat tree with sisal scratcher provides your cat with exercise and entertainment. Hanging balls add to the fun. Neutral color will fit in perfectly with any decor. $39.95 approx.
38" Tall, 7-Level Cat GYM
B3803 Cat GYM
This Sky Blue, faux fleece cat tree is 31" long, 20" wide, and 38" tall. This pressed wood structure has a base that is 24" X 20" and has 3 condos that are 12" long, 8" wide, and 10" high.
With 3 condos, 3 perches and 6 posts, your cat will get plenty of exercise and be entertained for hours every day. 3 of the posts are wrapped with Sisal.
The GYM is easy to assemble and comes with step-by-step instructions and tools. Max Holding Weight is 30 lbs. Suggested Retail Price: $209. Your Price: approx. $109.
Free Shipping to Continental US. For more information or to purchase click Cat GYM 01.
Cat On The Roof: Photo Caption Contest
Photo Caption Contest
Add a new caption and vote for your favorites. Come back and vote for the new ones.
#1
Aahhh...the life of a cat.
5 points
#2
It's good to be a cat ...zzz
5 points
#3
Now. This is the life!
4 points
#4
Maybe nobody will find me here and I can finally get some shut-eye.
2 points
#5
Ahhh. Gotta love shingles. They warm me up and scratch my back all at the same time.
2 points
#6
I just love these fluffy pajamas!
2 points
#7
Umm. A warm place in the sun.
1 point
#8
Can you believe that stupid bird fell for the ol' cat sleeping on the roof routine? heh,heh,heh.
1 point
#9
Just another couple of hours, then I'll get up.
1 point
#10
Help Help! I have fallen and cannot get up!
1 point
Dharma - A ZEN Cat To Laugh With And Learn From
A wonderful Read And / Or Gift
This wonderful cartoon ebook is about a Buddhist cat named Dharma. Along with a novice monk and a cheese-crazy mouse, the three have some great misadventures together.
David Lourie wrote this clever book with wonderful humor and wit. It is thought-provoking -- a great blending of philosophy and spirituality with humor. It would make a nice Christmas or birthday gift.
To get a free download of 13 pages of this wonderful ebook and/or to learn more about Dharma and her pals, click Fun With Dharma.
David Lourie wrote this clever book with wonderful humor and wit. It is thought-provoking -- a great blending of philosophy and spirituality with humor. It would make a nice Christmas or birthday gift.
To get a free download of 13 pages of this wonderful ebook and/or to learn more about Dharma and her pals, click Fun With Dharma.
53", 6-Level Cat Tree
B5301 Cat Tree
This Ivory, faux fleece cat bed is 24" long, 22" wide and 53" tall. The pressed wood structure has a condo that is 14" long, 12" wide and 12" high. It also boasts a 14" X 12" perch and 5 Sisal wrapped posts.
The tree is easy to assemble and comes with step-by-step instructions and tools. Maximum holding weight is 40 lbs. Suggested Retail Price: $169. Your Price: approx. $82
Free Shipping to Continental US. For more information or to purchase click Cat Tree 03.
57" Tall, 6-Level Cat Tree
B5701 Cat Tree
This ivory colored, faux fleece cat tree has a base board size of 24" X 20" and is made of pressed wood. It is 28" long, 25 " wide and 57" tall.
The condo is 15" long, 14" wide and 12" tall and has 2 perches, each 14" X 12", and 7 posts which are wrapped in Sisal.
The cat tree is easy to assemble and comes with step-by-step instructions and tools. The maximum holding weight is 40 lbs. Suggested Retail Price: $219. Your Price: approx. $100.
Free Shipping to Continental US. For more information or to purchase click Cat Tree 04.
Don't Forget To Spay Or Neuter Your Cat
You Cats Will Be Healthier And Happier
Having your cat spayed or neutered will stop the overpopulation and the killing of cats. Millions of cats are killed at shelters each year due to overpopulation. Keep in mind, if your cat has 4 kittens, even if you get homes for those kittens, 4 others are killed because they could not get homes.
This wonderful animation was created by David Booth of Cabin Fever Art. Check out his site to see all his wonderful cartoons and other goodies. He also provides the weekly cartoon for Are You Polar Bear Aware?
This wonderful animation was created by David Booth of Cabin Fever Art. Check out his site to see all his wonderful cartoons and other goodies. He also provides the weekly cartoon for Are You Polar Bear Aware?
"Dogs think they are human.
Cats think they are God."
78" Tall, 12-Level Cat Tree
A7802 Cat Tree
Silver Gray Faux Fur covers the pressed wood structure and has a base board size of 24" x 20". The overall size of this beautiful cat tree is 42" long, 26" wide, and 78" tall.
The size of Condo 1 is 14" long, 14" wide, and 12" tall. Condo 2 is 14" long, 14" wide and 12" tall.
There are 2 perches each is 14: x 12", and 10 posts wrapped in Sisal.
12 levels make this a terrific play area for active cats and multiple cats. It is easy to assemble and comes with step-by-step instructions and tools. The maximum holding weight is 60 lbs. Suggested Retail Price: $299. Your Price: approx. $159
Free Shipping to Continental US. For more information or to purchase click B570 Cat Tree 05.
83" Tall, 9-Level Cat Tree
A8301 Cat Tree
This Navy Blue with Silver Gray Condo and Beige Hammock cat tree is definitely for the pampered cat. The Faux Fur cat tree is made of Pressed Wood and has a base board size of 24" x 24".
The overall size of the tree is 28" long, 28" wide, and 83" tall. The condos are 14" x 12" and 18" x 15" x 13". With 9 levels, 2 perches and 13 posts (wrapped in Sisal) your cats can play for hours and get plenty of exercise.
The tree is easy to assemble and comes with step-by-step instructions and tools. The max holding weight is 80 lbs. Suggested Retail Price: $319. Your Price: approx. $169.
Free Shipping to Continental US. For more information or to purchase click Cat Tree 06.
I Can't Sleep In Here!
Not A Very Comfy Bed
I can't sleep in here. No Way!
How To Get Rid Of Behavior Problems
The Book Solutions To Cat Behavior will tell you exactly how to solve your litter box, house-soiling, and feline aggression problems.With the insights found in this manual you will be able to stop your cat from using your house as a toilet, turn your aggressive tiger into a pussy cat and many more techniques to make it more enjoyable for both you and your cat. You'll be purring after putting these solutions in place.
For more information on how to change your cat's behavior, click on Solutions To Cat Behavior
Cat Ware For Cat Lovers
Show The World How Much You Love Cats
All of the following ar from Kate Hayes' CafePress shop. Each of these items have the following quote:
"The quality of my life is directly proportional to the amount of time I spend with my cat." Kate Hayes
"The quality of my life is directly proportional to the amount of time I spend with my cat." Kate Hayes
I Like The Bed This Way
This Kitten Likes The Back Of The Bed
I Like The Bed This Way
Why do Cats Spray?
You may have seen a cat backed up to an object, holding his tail erect and quivering, and releasing a spray of urine out backwards onto the object.
This urine spray differs from the urine cats normally release from a squatting position. It is chemically different in that it contains an oily secretion from the anal glands. This urine is extremely pungent. It has a heavy musky odor.
Why do cats spray?
There are several different reasons cats spray:
1. Marking their territories.
A cat will spray to mark his territory so other cats know of his presence.
2. During aggressive conflicts.
To warn other cats that they've crossed into his territory.
3. During sexual encounters.
Most cats that spray are unneutered males or unspayed females. Although roughly 10 percent of males neutered before 10 months of age will still spray.
Do indoor cats spray?
Some cats spray urine inside their homes. They can spray for several reasons:
1. Conflicts between cats in the home.
2. A new family member -- human or feline.
3. Seeing cats outside can make a indoor cat feel threatened.
4. Smelling cats through door or windows.
5. If you are gone more often than usual a cat can spray to show you his discontent.
This urine spray differs from the urine cats normally release from a squatting position. It is chemically different in that it contains an oily secretion from the anal glands. This urine is extremely pungent. It has a heavy musky odor.
Why do cats spray?
There are several different reasons cats spray:
1. Marking their territories.
A cat will spray to mark his territory so other cats know of his presence.
2. During aggressive conflicts.
To warn other cats that they've crossed into his territory.
3. During sexual encounters.
Most cats that spray are unneutered males or unspayed females. Although roughly 10 percent of males neutered before 10 months of age will still spray.
Do indoor cats spray?
Some cats spray urine inside their homes. They can spray for several reasons:
1. Conflicts between cats in the home.
2. A new family member -- human or feline.
3. Seeing cats outside can make a indoor cat feel threatened.
4. Smelling cats through door or windows.
5. If you are gone more often than usual a cat can spray to show you his discontent.
Cat Trivia -- Ain't That Just Like A Cat?
Interesting And Funny Cat Facts
Here are some of the interesting and funny facts I know about cats, their lives, and their temperments. Please add your own and vote for your favorites and come back to vote on new ones.
#1
Patriotic Cats
During the Vietnam conflict, the U. S. Army used cats to serve as night vision for soldiers. The cats were harnessed and although they were more than capable of the task, they ignored most of the orders (as cats typically do) and led the way instead to mice and birds. The idea was quickly dropped. (lensmaster's note: Duh! )2 points
#2
Ailurophiles
If you are a cat lover, then you are an ailurophile, and are probably dedicated to ailurophilia or "all things cat." This obscure terminology comes from the Greeks: ailouros means "cat", philos "lover of."0 points
Calvin and Hobbes At Their Best
Incredible Caroons Filled With Lessons On Life
Here is a list of my favorite Calvin and Hobbes books. Bill Watteron's cartoon are so spectacular because they ring so true. The cartoons are not only well drawn and funny they're filled with life lessons we can all learn from. If I've missed your favorite, please add it! Purrs & bear hugs, Frankie
#4
Kitten Sleeping With His Buddy
My, you're soft.
Must Read Articles On Taking Care Of Your Cat
Find Articles On All Your Cat Care
You'll find dozens of articles on Cat Care on my website All Things Related To Cats. Below are a few of them. Click the headline to see the individual article.
- How To Care For The Senior Cat
- Thanks to dedicated care from their humans and advancements in veterinary medicine, cats are living longer lives. After age 10, considered the beginning of a cat's "senior years," the aging process begins to slow your feline down...
- Cats and Arthritis
- An inflammation of the joints, arthritis is not commonly found in healthy cats. Most arthritis found in cats develops after an accident that has made their bones or joints weak. There are 2 types of arthritis that a cat can develop: osteoarthritis and traumatic arthritis...
- Six Important Cat Items Every Owner Should Have
- Now that you've acquired that precious little feline you'll need to acquire some necessary items such as cat food and a litter box. However, if you are a new cat owner, there are other important cat items you should have also. In this article not only will you learn about some of the most common items, you'll discover other items that will make your life a little easier...
- Cat Care Involves Pet Insurance
- To some, pet insurance might seem like a frivolous investment. Most people might not consider it to be a major part of cat care. Insurance for anything in life is a gamble, after all...
Webkinz Cats -- Cat Gifts For Kids Or Collectors
How To Make Money Writing About Cats Or Anything Else
Get Paid For Your Stories, Insights Or Opinions
Featured VIDEO Lenses
Get Ready For Belly Laughs
Check out my video lenses with funny videos on cats, dogs, or polar bears.
Check out my new Calvin and Hobbes site. To go there right now, click Funniest Calvin-and-Hobbes
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Funny Cat Video Showcase
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Videos of cats doing some pretty funny and wacky things. Many by people who caught their cats on film. Others are cartoons, animations and other funny cat videos. It's hard not to watch them all at one sitting. However, if you can't, watch 1 or 2, bo...
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Funny Dog Video Showcase
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Dogs, pups, and their friends in funny and wacky videos are seen here. You'll discover how much fun dogs can be and what really gets them going. You'll also find funny and cute pictures and other fun things having to do with Man's (and Woman's) best...
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Polar Bear Videos -- Polar Bears, Here, There, Everywhere
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Get your polar bear fix here with live, cartoon and animated videos showcasing polar bears in all their glory. You'll find funny, serious and educational videos as well. Watch and learn about these magnificent creatures and find out where you can lea...
Choosing A Cat Bed For Your Pampered Cat
Get Several And Your Cat Will Love You All The More!
Cats love comfort and warmth. A cozy cat bed, that can keep them warm in the winter and provide a soft, comfortable nest, is probably the best way to entice them off your bed, your couch and your overstuffed chair.
There are many different types and styles of cat beds so finding one that blends with your decor should not be hard. You can look for colorful cat beds in fun pet prints that add a touch of whimsy to the room or for cat beds with plenty of designer elegance. Of course, your cat will be more concerned with how the bed feels than what it looks like.
Cat beds are often lined with fleece which cats love. Some have high sides or they may actually be completely enclosed to form a cozy nest bed.
If you have several cats, you may find that each prefers a different type of bed. Some like the deep dish type bed with high sides, where others like just a large pillow. In fact, you'll probably discover that cats like different beds at different time of the day.
Above is a large enough basket-bed for a cat to share with his canine family member.
Some nest beds are even heated to add more warmth. If you have a cat that spends time outside on the porch or in other chilly areas, you may want to consider providing him with one of these beds.
If your cat doesn't respond well to being told to stay off the couch, try a nap mat. Nap mats are soft coverings for furniture that can attract your cat and protect your furniture. When company comes, put the mat away and you've got clean seating to offer guests.
When you buy a cat bed, if your cat refuses to explore it, you may want to add a catnip toy or sprinkle loose catnip on the bed to attract his attention. Placing the bed in a cat friendly location will also make it more appealing. Cats prefer to nap hidden in a corner or off the ground. If you place a bed on the floor, be sure to position it in an area that does not receive much traffic or if off the ground, put it on the end of you bed or couch, or an end table or platform. If your cat feels as though he can never let down his guard and relax, he won't want to nap in his bed.
Having several beds for your cat to choose from is wise. You'll probably find he'll use each at different times of the day. Place one where they might get some sun, another near the heater during the winter. They'll probably prove more interesting than your furniture.
There are many different types and styles of cat beds so finding one that blends with your decor should not be hard. You can look for colorful cat beds in fun pet prints that add a touch of whimsy to the room or for cat beds with plenty of designer elegance. Of course, your cat will be more concerned with how the bed feels than what it looks like.
Cat beds are often lined with fleece which cats love. Some have high sides or they may actually be completely enclosed to form a cozy nest bed.
If you have several cats, you may find that each prefers a different type of bed. Some like the deep dish type bed with high sides, where others like just a large pillow. In fact, you'll probably discover that cats like different beds at different time of the day.
Above is a large enough basket-bed for a cat to share with his canine family member.
Some nest beds are even heated to add more warmth. If you have a cat that spends time outside on the porch or in other chilly areas, you may want to consider providing him with one of these beds.
If your cat doesn't respond well to being told to stay off the couch, try a nap mat. Nap mats are soft coverings for furniture that can attract your cat and protect your furniture. When company comes, put the mat away and you've got clean seating to offer guests.
When you buy a cat bed, if your cat refuses to explore it, you may want to add a catnip toy or sprinkle loose catnip on the bed to attract his attention. Placing the bed in a cat friendly location will also make it more appealing. Cats prefer to nap hidden in a corner or off the ground. If you place a bed on the floor, be sure to position it in an area that does not receive much traffic or if off the ground, put it on the end of you bed or couch, or an end table or platform. If your cat feels as though he can never let down his guard and relax, he won't want to nap in his bed.
Having several beds for your cat to choose from is wise. You'll probably find he'll use each at different times of the day. Place one where they might get some sun, another near the heater during the winter. They'll probably prove more interesting than your furniture.
Cats REALLY Will Sleep Anywhere!
Kittens Falling Asleep
Too Tired To Hold Their Eyes Open
Watch these very short videos (about 20 seconds each) of kittens falling asleep. They are sooooo cute!!
#1
Cutest Kitten Ever... Falling Asleep. 2 points
#2
Sleepy kitten falling asleep 1 point
18 Ways to Stop Cat Urine Odor Problems
Tested Ways To Remove The Odor!
Cat urine odor is a real problem. I've looked for years for methods to get the smell out. Here's an ebook that will give you 18 tested ways that work. Find out how you can get rid of the urine odor. For more information, click Stop Cat Urine Odor. Cat Toys For The Cat Lovers
On How To Build A Cat Tree
Informational Sites
#1
Build Your Own Cat Tree
Describes exactly how to build a cat tree.2 points
#2
How To Build a Cat Condo | How To Do Things.com
A cat condo, or kitty habitat, is one of the easiest pieces of furniture for the home carpenter to make, and can be made out of scraps left from other...2 points