DIY Cardboard cat bed covered in red fabric with different colored stars.

It's no secret that cats love a good cardboard box, PetMD confirms, and boxes make great DIY cat beds. This version allows you to add your own decorating flair!

What You'll Need

  1. Sturdy cardboard box with a lid (a bankers box or paper box works well)
  2. Small fleece blanket
  3. Wrapping paper (you also can use fabric or self-sticking contact paper)
  4. Adhesive: cellophane tape for wrapping paper, hot glue for fabric
  5. Box cutter

How to Make It

Two gray cats lie around DIY cardboard cat bed covered in red fabric with different colored stars.

  1. Using the box cutter, create an opening on the wide side of the box. Be sure not to cut out the entire side of the box. Leave enough room around the edges so that the box remains stable.
  2. Decorate the box and lid with colorful, fun wrapping paper, just as you would a gift, which is exactly what you're creating for your buddy!
  3. Place the fleece on the bottom of the box, ensuring your cat has enough room to move around.
  4. Set the box on top of the lid, or put the lid on top to give your kitty more privacy.

You easily can switch out the paper to match your décor, even coordinating with a holiday celebration!

With simple DIY cat beds such as these, you provide your furry friend with a comfortable, safe, snuggly space she can call her own. All she needs is a comfy space to lay and a place where she can keep an eye on things.

Image Sources: Christine O'Brien

Christine O'Brien Christine O'Brien

Christine O'Brien is a writer, mom, and long-time cat parent whose two Russian Blues rule the house. Her work also appears in Care.com, What to Expect, and Fit Pregnancy, where she writes about pets, pregnancy, and family life. Find and follow her on Instagram and Twitter @brovelliobrien.