Creating A Cat Tunnel: Chicken Wire Construction

Cat tunnels are a great way to allow your cat to explore the outdoors and enjoy new territory safely. They can be easily installed in a few hours, with no heavy lifting required. You can build a cat tunnel with chicken wire by following a few simple steps. First, measure and plan your tunnel, allocating 1-2 square meters per cat. Next, gather your materials and tools, including chicken wire, timber battens, staples, screws, hinges, and a latch. Cut the timber battens to size and use them to craft the structural frames of the tunnel. Secure the frames with screws and attach the chicken wire to create the mesh sides and roof of the tunnel. Finally, ensure all sides and joins are properly attached, with no gaps for cats to escape. With these steps, you can create a safe and stimulating adventure for your cat to enjoy the outdoors.

Planning and measuring

Sketch out your plan on a piece of paper, including measurements, to visualise the project. This will help you determine the amount of chicken wire, timber battens, and other materials required. Remember to allocate 1-2 square meters per cat for their comfort and ease of movement. Decide on the entry and exit points of the tunnel, which can be through a window, door, pet flap, or a dedicated cat flap installed in a wall or door.

When it comes to materials, timber battens, also known as two-by-fours, will serve as the structural frames of the tunnel. Cut these to size using a hacksaw, ensuring precise angles with a utility square. For added stability, you can stagger the pieces by cutting one of the battens in half. If your tunnel will be placed on a steep incline, consider adding extra pieces of wood to provide a surface for your cats to hold onto.

In addition to the chicken wire, you will need materials such as staples, screws, hinges, and latches to secure the tunnel together and attach it to the chosen surface. Measure and mark the pieces required for the structural frames, and don't forget to wear protective gear during the building process.

Tools and materials

The tools and materials you will need to build a cat tunnel with chicken wire will depend on the specifics of your project, such as the length of the tunnel, whether it is elevated or on the ground, and whether you are integrating it with an existing structure. Here is a list of tools and materials you may need:

• Protective gloves, tape measure, marker, utility square, wire cutters, hammer, hacksaw, and drill: These tools will be useful for measuring, marking, and cutting the various components of your cat tunnel, such as the chicken wire and timber battens.
• Chicken wire or wire mesh: This will form the walls and possibly the roof of your cat tunnel. You can use chicken wire or vinyl-coated gauge wire, or galvanized wire mesh.
• Timber battens or deck planks: These will be used to create the structural frames of the tunnel. The amount of timber or planks you need will depend on the length of your tunnel.
• Staples, screws, hinges, and latches: These will be used to secure the different components of the tunnel together and to attach the tunnel to any existing structures, such as a cat flap or door.
• Roofing materials: If your tunnel has a roof, you may need additional materials such as plastic roofing sheets and battens to create a slope for water drainage.
• Tubing: If you want to be able to move your tunnel around, you can use tubing to lift it off the ground instead of carrying it by the sharp wire edges.
• Stain: You may want to stain the wooden components of your tunnel to protect the wood and achieve your desired aesthetic.

Cutting and securing wire

Cutting the Wire

Before you begin cutting the wire, it is essential to measure and plan the dimensions of your cat tunnel. Determine the length, width, and height of the tunnel, considering the space you have available and the comfort of your cat. Remember that most cat tunnels are about 13 to 14 inches in diameter, with a walking surface of around 11 inches.

Once you have your measurements, use a tape measure to mark the desired length of the wire. Chicken wire can be cut using different tools, such as wire cutters or a hacksaw. Put on protective gloves to ensure safety during the cutting process. Cut the wire along the marked line, ensuring straight and precise cuts.

Securing the Wire

After cutting the wire to size, it's time to secure it in place. If you're using a wooden frame, you can attach the wire to the frame using staples, screws, or hinges. Make sure to secure the wire tightly to the frame to prevent any gaps that your cat could potentially escape through.

For added security, especially if your tunnel is exposed to the elements, consider using galvanized wire mesh or vinyl-coated gauge wire. These materials will help protect against rust and extend the lifespan of your cat tunnel.

If you're creating a ground tunnel, you can use PVC garden tubing to hold the wire mesh together. Cable ties can be used to securely fasten the wire mesh to the tubing, creating a stable and hidden pathway for your cat to enjoy.

Remember to check that all sides and joins are properly attached and secure before allowing your cat to use the tunnel. A well-secured cat tunnel will ensure your cat's safety and provide them with a fun and stimulating outdoor experience.

Adding a roof

First, you'll need to decide on the type of roof you want to install. You can choose between a wire mesh roof, which is simple and allows for good airflow, or a solid roof that provides more comprehensive protection from the elements. If you opt for a solid roof, you can use a plastic roofing sheet, which is lightweight and easy to work with.

For a wire mesh roof, measure the width and length of your tunnel and cut the mesh accordingly. Allow for some overlap on the sides so that you can securely attach it to the wooden frame. You can use staples or screws for this, ensuring there are no sharp edges that could harm your cat.

If you're adding a solid roof, cut a batten to size and affix it to the back of the structure at the top. Then, add several more battens perpendicularly on top to create a slope for water drainage. This will ensure that rainwater runs off the roof and doesn't pool, which could cause leaks or damage.

Next, cut your roofing material to size. If using a plastic roofing sheet, mark the measurements and cut carefully with a utility knife or a suitable tool. Drill holes along the edges of the sheet for screws, and also in the middle to prevent water pooling.

Finally, attach the roof securely. For wire mesh, use staples or screws along the edges. For a solid roof, use roof screws to fix the plastic sheet to the battens. Ensure all screws are tight and there are no gaps that could allow rainwater to enter.

Remember to check that all materials are cat-safe and non-toxic, and always wear protective gear when cutting and drilling. With these steps, you can add a functional and safe roof to your cat tunnel!

Installing a door

When building a cat tunnel with chicken wire, installing a door is an important step to ensure your cat can safely enter and exit the structure. Here is a detailed guide on how to do it:

Planning the Door

Before you begin construction, it's crucial to plan the placement and size of the door. Decide whether the door will be located on a side panel or the front of the tunnel, ensuring it aligns with the cat's primary access point. The door should be appropriately sized for your cat to comfortably enter and exit, with enough clearance to accommodate their whiskers and tail.

Constructing the Door Frame

Use treated timber battens to create a sturdy door frame. Measure and cut the battens to the required size, ensuring precise angles with a utility square. You can connect the pieces using wood glue and reinforcing them with screws for added strength. Pre-drilling and countersinking the joins will result in a more secure and neat finish.

Attaching the Door

If your tunnel lacks interior access, installing a door is essential. Construct the door similarly to the frame, but reinforce it with diagonal braces for added stability. Attach mesh to the exterior of the door to make it cat-proof, preventing your cat from escaping while allowing airflow and visibility.

Securing the Door

To ensure the door functions properly and securely, attach latches to the wooden frame. Screw in at least three latches to hold the door in place. Test the latches to ensure they securely hold the door closed, providing a safe enclosure for your cat.

Additional Considerations

For convenience, consider installing two entryways in your cat tunnel, especially if it has multiple connected sections. Additionally, if your tunnel is attached to your home, you may want to install a cat flap or miniature door to provide direct access for your cat to enter and exit the house. Ensure the door closes properly and aligns flush with the tunnel's frame to prevent any gaps that could allow your cat to escape.

Frequently asked questions