Cat Tunnel Plans

This step by step diy woodworking project is about a cat tunnel plans. This is PART 2 of the large catio project, where I show you how to build the simple 24″x24 tunnel. Remember that this is an example, but you can change the dimensions and shape of the tunnel to suit your needs. Take a look over the rest of our woodworking plans, if you want to get more building inspiration.

When buying the lumber, you should select the planks with great care, making sure they are straight and without any visible flaws (cracks, knots, twists, decay). Investing in cedar or other weather resistant lumber is a good idea, as it will pay off on the long run. Use a spirit level to plumb and align the components, before inserting the galvanized screws, otherwise the project won’t have a symmetrical look. If you have all the materials and tools required for the project, you could get the job done in about a day. See all my Premium Plans HERE.

Projects made from these plans

 

Cat Tunnel Plans

Building-a-cat-tunnel

Cut & Shopping Lists

• A – 2 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 120″ long, 3 pieces – 21″ long, 2 pieces – 96″ long BASE
• B – 2 pieces of 3/4″ plywood – 24″x96″ long, 1 piece – 24″x24″ long FLOOR
• C – 4 pieces of 2×2 lumber – 120″ long, 14 pieces – 21″ long FRAME
• D – 4 pieces of 2×2 lumber – 96″ long, 9 pieces – 21″ long FRAME

• 2 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 10′
• 3 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 8′
• 1 piece of 3/4″ plywood – 4’x8′
• 1 piece of 3/4″ plywood – 2’x2′
• 10 pieces of 2×2 lumber – 8′
• 3 1/2″ screws, 2 1/2″ screws
• 1 5/8″ screws
• hardware cloth
• wood glue, stain/paint

Tools

 Hammer, Tape measure, Framing square, Level

 Miter saw, Drill machinery, Screwdriver, Sander

 Safety Gloves, Safety Glasses

Time

 One weekend

Related

• Outdoor cat house plans
• 8×8 Catio Plans
• Window Catio Plans

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How to build a catio tunnels

Floor frame

The first step of the project is to build the floor frame for the tunnel. Use pressure treated 2x4s and assemble the frame, as shown in the diagram. Drill pilot holes through the side pieces and insert 3 1/2″ screws into the perpendicular components.

Floor sheet for cat tunnel A

Use 3/4″ plywood for the floor of the tunnel. Align the edges flush, drill pilot holes and insert 1 5/8″ screws every 8″ along the framing.

Frames-for-the-cat-tunnel

Use 2×2 lumber for the side frames. Drill pilot holes through the plates and insert 3 1/2″ screws into the studs. Make sure the edges are flush and check if the corners are square.

Fitting the frames to the floor of cat tunnel A

Fit the side frames to the floor of the tunnel and align the edges flush. Plumb the wall frames, drill pilot holes through the bottom plates and insert 3 1/2″ screws.

Assembling the cat tunnel A

Next, fit the other blockings between the side frames. Drill pocket holes at both ends of the supports and secure them to the sides with 2 1/2″ screws. Make sure the corners are square.

Floor for cat tunnel B

Next, we need to build the other tunnel. Use 1 5/8″ screws to secure the 3/4″ plywood floor to skids. Align the edges flush.

Sides-for-cat-tunnel

Build the side frames for the tunnel B. Drill pilot holes through the plates and insert 3 1/2″ screws into the studs. Make sure the corners are square and align the edges flush.

Fitting the side frames – cat tunnel B

Fit the frames to the sides of the floor. Align the edges flush and plumb them with a spirit level. Drill pilot holes and insert 3 1/2″ screws to lock the frames into place tightly.

Assembling the cat tunnel frame

Fit the top supports to the cat tunnel. Drill pocket holes at both ends of the supports and insert 2 1/2″ screws to lock them into place tightly.

Fitting the tunnel to the catio

Fit the tunnel to the 8×10 catio and lock it to the frame with 2 1/2″ screws.

Fitting the wire to the cat tunnelg

Assemble the tunnels together and lock them with 2 1/2″ screws. Staple wire mesh to the exterior of the cat tunnels.

Last but not least, take care of the finishing touches. Therefore, smooth the edges and make sure there are no wire exposed to injure your pets. Apply a few coats of paint / stain to enhance the look of the catio and to protect the components from the elements.

Make sure you take a look over the rest of my cat project plans HERE. I have tons of designs covering everything you need to keep you cat healthy and happy: insulated cat houses, window catio, large catio and cat trees. If you like my approach to designing woodworking plans, make sure you check out the list of all my free designs HERE.

In addition, if you want to build a 8×10 catio, check out PART 1 of the project. These 2 projects together make for the ideal cat shelter.

This woodworking project was about 8×10 catio plans free. If you want to see more outdoor plans, check out the rest of our step by step projects and follow the instructions to obtain a professional result.

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