If you’ve got indoor cats (or even just one very spoiled furball), creating a cat enrichment room is a game-changer. It’s not just about cat trees and toys—it’s about designing a space that feels safe, exciting, and totally theirs. Whether you’ve got a whole spare room or just a cozy nook, here’s how to build a little feline paradise they’ll love exploring.
Think like a cat: climb, scratch, nap, repeat
Start by watching how your cat naturally behaves around the house. Most cats want height to climb, soft places to curl up, and enough space to stretch, scratch, and explore. So your layout should give them a mix of all that.
Use wall space for vertical play—floating shelves, wall-mounted steps, or a DIY cat jungle gym built from wood planks and brackets can turn a blank wall into their favorite spot. You don’t need a huge space either. Even a hallway or walk-in closet can be turned into a fun cat zone if it includes a few cozy levels and spots to perch.
If you’re designing a more permanent setup—like a full cat room or even a home cattery—try sketching a layout that includes a nap zone, a climbing wall, and space to zoom around.
Create zones for energy and calm
A good cat enrichment room should balance stimulation with relaxation.
For active play, add hanging toys, tunnels, or even a scratching ramp to keep them moving. Puzzle feeders or little boxes stuffed with treats also keep curious paws busy. On the calmer side, create soft corners with a blanket in a box, a plush bed on a low shelf, or a sun patch near a window.
If you have multiple cats, try to give them different zones so they can each have a bit of space. Even a large piece of furniture—like a bench or bookshelf—can divide the room without closing it off. That way, no one feels crowded or cornered.
Make it cute, not clinical
Cat enrichment doesn’t have to clash with your home aesthetic. You can keep it stylish while still making it fun for your pet.
Choose natural wood tones, neutral bedding, or cozy textures that match the rest of your decor. Add a soft rug or washable mat (just in case), and if you love a theme—lean into it! A jungle vibe, a Parisian cat café look, or a whimsical boho space all work as long as your cat has enough to explore.
You can even turn an unused corner of your living room or office into a sweet cat zone by using matching shelves, a rattan cat basket, and a cute quote print. Just search “cat room” or “cat apartment ideas” for inspiration—it doesn’t have to be over the top.
Let them look out and listen in
For cats, a window is basically TV. If possible, place a perch or bed by a sunny window so they can birdwatch or snooze in the warmth. You could even set up a bird feeder outside to make it extra exciting.
If you’re building the room deeper in the house and there’s no window access, consider adding other types of sensory enrichment. Things like wind chimes, cat-safe herbs like mint or catnip, and quiet ambient sounds (like soft nature music or bubbling fountains) can keep the space interesting. Rotate toys and scents every couple of weeks so it doesn’t get boring.
DIY doesn’t mean low quality
One of the best things about building a cat enrichment room is that you can DIY almost all of it. Old bookshelves become step ladders. Cardboard boxes become tunnels. A coat rack turns into a climbing station with a little imagination.
If you’ve got the budget for it, go for a modular cat wall or modern cat furniture. But even if you don’t, you can build an incredible space using things you already own. Cats care way more about how fun and comfy something is than whether it came from a designer pet store.
Final thoughts
Your cat enrichment room doesn’t have to be perfect or Pinterest-worthy—it just has to be fun, safe, and filled with little things your cat enjoys. Whether it’s a DIY climbing wall, a window bed, or a cozy blanket in a sunbeam, you’re giving them a space to be curious, relaxed, and playful. And honestly? It’s pretty sweet to watch them enjoy it.