DIY Cat Tent Projects (With Step-by-Step Instructions)

Not every cat needs a $100 luxury cat tent to feel pampered. In fact, some of the most beloved feline hideouts are handmade using common materials you probably already have at home. Whether you're a seasoned crafter or just looking for a weekend project, these step-by-step DIY cat tent ideas are a great way to enrich your kitty’s environment. Plus, they make for adorable Instagram-worthy setups!

1. T-Shirt Cat Tent (The Classic Method)

Estimated Time: 20 minutes
Cost: $0–$5 (using items from around the house)

This is the most popular and beginner-friendly DIY cat tent. It’s soft, cozy, and collapsible—perfect for indoor cats who love covered spaces.

• Materials Needed: 1 medium-sized T-shirt, 2 wire hangers, 1 cardboard square (around 15"x15"), tape, and safety pins.
• Instructions:
1. Bend both hangers into a wide U-shape and tape them together into an "X" shape.
2. Secure the hangers to the cardboard base by poking holes in each corner and taping from underneath.
3. Stretch the T-shirt over the frame so the neck hole becomes the entrance.
4. Use safety pins or clips to tighten the fabric and secure the back.
5. Add a small blanket or pillow inside and let your cat explore.

2. No-Sew Boho Cat Teepee

Estimated Time: 30–40 minutes
Cost: $10–$25 (depending on materials)

Perfect for cat moms and dads who love aesthetics. This no-sew teepee brings stylish vibes to any room while giving your cat a comfy hideaway.

• Materials Needed: 4–5 wooden dowels (approx. 24"–30"), a piece of fabric (canvas, linen, or cotton), rubber bands, ribbon or twine, and a cozy base cushion.
• Instructions:
1. Arrange the dowels in a teepee shape and tie them together tightly with twine or rubber bands near the top.
2. Drape the fabric around the frame, leaving a small opening as a door.
3. Use clips, hot glue, or tuck the fabric to keep it in place.
4. Place a blanket or small cushion inside.
5. Decorate with faux vines, feathers, or your cat’s nameplate if desired.

3. Collapsible Cardboard Tent

Estimated Time: 15–20 minutes
Cost: Free (uses recycled boxes)

If your cat already loves cardboard boxes, this one’s a guaranteed hit. It’s simple, stackable, and collapses easily when not in use.

• Materials Needed: 1 medium to large cardboard box, scissors or a box cutter, a blanket or towel, optional decorations like stickers or markers.
• Instructions:
1. Cut a door opening in one side of the box.
2. Fold in or tape down any flaps so they don’t collapse inward.
3. Line the inside with a towel or fleece blanket for comfort.
4. Cut ventilation windows or a skylight (optional).
5. Decorate the outside if you’d like—get creative!

Final Thoughts

DIY cat tents are a rewarding way to engage your creativity while giving your feline a space to feel safe and snug. Whether it’s a minimalist T-shirt tent or a Pinterest-worthy teepee, your cat will love the cozy privacy and you’ll love the price tag. Best of all, these projects can be customized to match your space, your style, and—most importantly—your cat’s personality.

So grab a few supplies and start building. Who says stylish cat furniture has to cost a fortune? Your next viral cat video might just be filmed from inside a DIY tent.