15 Creative DIY Cat Hammocks for Happy Felines
My cat thinks every high shelf, chair back, and windowsill belongs to her. So I started making DIY cat hammocks—and now she has cozy spots in every room. The best part? Most of these projects take under an hour and use stuff you already have.
I’ve rounded up 15 creative DIY cat hammock ideas that range from five-minute no-sew hacks to cute wooden builds. Whether you’re a crafting pro or just want something quick, there’s a project here for you.
Each one is practical, cat-approved, and looks great in your home. Let’s dive in.
1. The Classic T-Shirt Hammock (No-Sew)
This is my go-to for a quick win. Grab an old T-shirt, cut it into strips, and tie them to a sturdy frame or chair legs. No sewing required.
I like using a wooden clothes hanger or a small PVC frame. Just make sure the knots are tight and the fabric is stretched enough to hold your cat’s weight.
My cat jumped in within minutes. It’s soft, washable, and basically free.
2. Cardboard Box Cat Hammock
Don’t toss that shipping box just yet. Cut a rectangle out of the sides, then thread a piece of fleece or an old pillowcase through the holes.
I reinforced the edges with duct tape so it wouldn’t tear. Then I hung it between two chair backs using zip ties.
It’s not the prettiest, but cats love the enclosed feeling. Plus, you can decorate the cardboard with non-toxic paint.
3. Wooden Dowel and Fabric Hammock
For a sturdier option, use two wooden dowels and a piece of canvas or denim. Drill holes in the dowel ends, then thread rope through.
I tied the ropes to a ceiling hook or a wall bracket. The fabric should sag just a little in the middle—like a real hammock.
This one takes about 30 minutes and looks like a store-bought piece. My cat uses it every afternoon.
4. Crochet Cat Hammock
If you crochet, this is a fun project. Use a thick cotton yarn and a large hook to make a rectangle with reinforced edges.
I followed a simple mesh pattern so it breathes. Then I attached it to a wooden frame with double knots.
It’s soft, stretchy, and machine washable. Just check for loose yarn ends—cats love to chew those.
5. Under-Table Hammock
My dining table has a hidden secret: a cat hammock underneath. I screwed two eye hooks into the underside of the table legs.
Then I tied a piece of sturdy fabric between them. It’s out of the way and gives my cat a cozy spot while I work.
Make sure the table is heavy enough that your cat’s weight won’t tip it. A low coffee table works great too.
6. Window-Mounted Cat Hammock
Cats love sunbathing. I used strong suction cups with hooks to attach a fabric hammock to a large window.
I measured the window first and chose a fabric that wouldn’t stretch too much. A canvas or outdoor fabric works best.
Clean the glass before sticking the suction cups. Then test it with a small weight before letting your cat jump in.
7. Upcycled Sweater Hammock
That old sweater you shrunk in the wash? Turn it into a hammock. Cut off the sleeves and neck, then slip the body over a frame.
I used a wire hanging basket frame from the dollar store. The sweater’s ribbed hem holds it in place nicely.
It’s warm and snuggly, perfect for winter. Just make sure there are no holes your cat can get stuck in.
8. Radiator or Wall-Mounted Hammock
If you have a radiator or a sturdy wall, you can mount a hammock with brackets. I used L-brackets and a thick dowel.
The fabric slides over the dowel and hangs down like a sling. It’s great for small spaces.
Just avoid mounting above anything hot or electrical. Safety first, cozy second.
9. PVC Pipe Cat Hammock
PVC pipes are cheap and easy to cut. I made a rectangular frame with four elbows and two T-joints.
Then I stretched a piece of fleece over the top and secured it with zip ties. The whole thing cost about $10.
You can spray paint the PVC for a nicer look. My cat loves the slight bounce.
10. Basket and Strap Hammock
Take a woven basket and cut out the bottom. Then thread a strap or belt through the sides and hang it from a hook.
I used an old leather belt for a rustic look. The basket gives structure, so the hammock doesn’t collapse.
It’s a great way to upcycle. Just sand any rough edges.
11. Macrame Cat Hammock
Macrame is trendy and cats love the texture. I tied a simple square knot pattern to create a net-like hammock.
Then I attached it to a wooden ring and hung it from the ceiling. It took a couple of hours, but it was worth it.
Use cotton cord—not synthetic—so it’s safe if your cat chews. And keep the knots tight.
12. Bookshelf Hammock Nook
Clear a shelf on your bookcase and turn it into a hammock. I screwed two small hooks into the sides of the shelf.
Then I tied a piece of fabric between them, letting it sag. My cat now ignores her expensive bed for this spot.
Make sure the shelf is anchored to the wall. Cats jump with force.
13. Under-Chair Hammock
Similar to the under-table idea, but for a chair. I used a sturdy dining chair and tied a fabric sling between the front and back legs.
It’s low to the ground, so it’s great for older cats or kittens. Plus, it keeps them from tripping you.
Just check that the chair doesn’t wobble. A heavy wooden chair works best.
14. Repurposed Denim Hammock
Old jeans are tough and durable. I cut off the legs and used the seat portion as the hammock bed.
Then I sewed or tied the waistband to a wooden frame. The denim holds up well against claws.
It’s a bit heavier, so use strong ropes. But it looks cool and lasts for years.
15. Floating Shelf Hammock
Install a floating shelf on the wall, then add a hammock underneath. I used a shelf bracket and a piece of fabric.
The shelf gives your cat a step up, and the hammock below is a cozy hideaway. It’s a two-in-one.
Make sure the shelf can hold weight. Then let your cat explore.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need fancy tools or a big budget to make a cat hammock your feline will actually use. Start with a no-sew option, then work your way up to a wooden frame or macrame design.
My best tip: place it somewhere high or near a window. Cats feel safest when they can watch the room from above. And always test the hammock with a small weight before letting your cat jump in.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best fabric for a DIY cat hammock?
Canvas, denim, fleece, and cotton twill all work great. They’re sturdy, washable, and don’t stretch out too much. Avoid loose knits that can snag on claws.
How do I make sure my cat hammock is safe?
Always test it with a weight heavier than your cat first. Check knots and brackets regularly. And never mount a hammock above a heater, stove, or electrical outlet.
Can I make a cat hammock without drilling holes?
Yes. Use suction cups for windows, zip ties around chair legs, or heavy-duty command hooks on smooth walls. Just make sure they’re rated for the weight.
How do I get my cat to use the hammock?
Place it where your cat already likes to hang out. Add a worn shirt or a favorite toy to make it smell familiar. And try putting a treat on it.
How often should I wash a DIY cat hammock?
Every two to three weeks, or sooner if it looks dirty. Most fabric hammocks can go in the washing machine on gentle. Check the frame for wear while it’s drying.
