Finding the perfect sleeping spot for our feline friends can sometimes feel like a strategic game. They might ignore the plush bed you bought, preferring a cardboard box or that inconvenient spot right in the middle of your hallway. But what if you could offer them a cozy, secure den that also blends seamlessly into your home decor? Enter the brilliant idea of transforming a simple nightstand into a hidden cat bed. It’s a fantastic way to give your cat their own private space without sacrificing precious floor real estate or your carefully curated aesthetic.
This project combines practicality with a touch of creative repurposing. It’s especially great for smaller apartments or for anyone who prefers a minimalist look. Your cat gets a dark, den-like space they often crave, feeling safe and sound tucked away, while your bedroom or living room remains uncluttered. Plus, if your cat loves being near you, placing this modified nightstand beside your bed means they can snooze close by without actually being *on* the bed (unless that’s where they end up anyway, cat logic!).
Why Choose a Nightstand for This Project?
Nightstands are often the ideal size for a cat hideaway. They’re not usually massive pieces of furniture, making them manageable to modify, but they offer enough interior space for a cat to curl up comfortably. Many older or basic nightstand designs feature a simple cabinet space below a drawer, or even just an open shelf area enclosed on three sides – perfect candidates for conversion.
They are also readily available and often inexpensive. Check out thrift stores, garage sales, or online marketplaces. You might even have an old nightstand gathering dust in the attic or garage, just waiting for a new purpose. Giving old furniture a new lease on life is always a rewarding feeling, and doing it for your furry companion makes it even better.
The enclosed nature of a nightstand cabinet naturally creates that den-like environment cats are drawn to. It provides a sense of security and seclusion, muffling sounds and blocking out bright lights, allowing for undisturbed naps. And strategically, having their little haven right by your bed can strengthen your bond, offering them comfort from your proximity while they rest.
Picking the Perfect Nightstand Candidate
Not every nightstand is suitable, so keep a few things in mind during your search. Look for:
- Sufficient Space: Measure your cat when they’re comfortably curled up (good luck with that!). Ensure the internal dimensions of the nightstand cabinet offer enough room for them to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Taller is often better than wider for entry/exit ease.
- Modifiable Structure: Ideally, you want a nightstand with a simple cabinet door you can remove or an open space below a drawer. Models with just drawers won’t work easily. Check the back panel – a thin, easily removable or cuttable back panel is a plus, although you can work with a solid back too.
- Sturdiness: It needs to be stable. Your cat jumping in and out shouldn’t cause it to wobble precariously. Solid wood or well-built MDF is preferable to flimsy particleboard.
- Ventilation Potential: While cats like enclosed spaces, some airflow is crucial. An open back or the ability to create an entrance easily ensures it won’t get stuffy inside.
Don’t worry too much about the exterior finish initially, as you can always sand and paint it later to match your room. Focus on the structure and size.
Gathering Your Supplies
Once you’ve found your nightstand, it’s time to gather the tools and materials. You likely have some of these already:
- The nightstand itself
- Measuring tape
- Pencil
- Safety glasses and gloves
- Jigsaw or keyhole saw (for cutting the entrance)
- Sandpaper (medium and fine grit)
- Screwdriver (if removing doors/hardware)
- Cleaning supplies (soap, water, cloths)
- Optional: Pet-safe paint or sealant, primer, paintbrushes/rollers
- Fabric for the cushion cover (choose something durable and washable, like fleece, canvas, or sturdy cotton)
- Cushion insert: Pet bed filling, foam padding, old pillows, or layered soft blankets
- Sewing machine and thread OR fabric glue/hem tape (for a no-sew option)
- Scissors
- Optional: Cat-safe adhesive for securing lining, small L-brackets if reinforcing anything.
Creating Your Cat’s Hidden Haven: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Prep the Nightstand
First up, empty the nightstand completely. If it has a cabinet door you don’t plan to keep, carefully remove it using a screwdriver. Do the same for any shelves inside that might obstruct the space. Keep the hardware safe if you think you might repurpose it later.
Now, give the entire piece, inside and out, a thorough cleaning. Use warm soapy water and a cloth, making sure to get rid of any dust, grime, or potential residues. Let it dry completely. This is especially important if you got it secondhand.
Step 2: Design and Cut the Entrance
Decide where you want the entrance. A side panel is usually the most practical, allowing the front to retain its original look. Consider which side will face outwards in your room. Think about the size needed – large enough for your cat to get in and out easily, but not so large it compromises the structure or the cozy feel. A circle, arch, or even a cat-head shape can work!
Measure and draw the outline of the entrance onto the chosen panel using your pencil. Double-check the placement and size. Before cutting, ensure there are no internal supports or hardware in the way.
Safety First! Always wear safety glasses when cutting wood to protect your eyes from sawdust and debris. Work in a well-ventilated area. Ensure the nightstand is stable and won’t shift while you’re cutting. Keep fingers well clear of the saw blade at all times.
Carefully cut along your marked line using the jigsaw or keyhole saw. Go slowly, especially around curves, for a cleaner cut. Once the opening is cut, use medium-grit sandpaper to smooth the edges thoroughly. Follow up with fine-grit sandpaper for a really soft finish. You don’t want any splinters snagging your cat’s fur or skin.
Step 3: Refine the Interior (Optional but Recommended)
With the entrance created, assess the interior. Are there any rough spots, old shelf supports, or screw holes? Sand them smooth. You might want to paint or seal the inside for a cleaner look and easier future wipe-downs. Crucially, ensure any paint, primer, or sealant you use is certified pet-safe or non-toxic once cured. Allow ample drying and curing time, usually 24-72 hours in a well-ventilated area, before letting your cat near it. You could also line the interior walls with fabric or carpet remnants using a non-toxic adhesive, though this can be harder to clean.
Step 4: Craft the Comfy Cushion
Now for the best part: the bed itself! Measure the internal floor dimensions of the nightstand cabinet. Cut your foam padding, old pillow, or chosen filling material to fit snugly on the base. You want it to be thick enough to be comfortable.
Next, create the cover. Lay your chosen fabric flat, wrong side up. Place the cushion insert on top. Cut the fabric, leaving a generous seam allowance all around (a few inches should do). You can either:
- Sew it: Fold the fabric right sides together and sew around three sides, leaving one side open. Turn it right-side out, insert the cushion filling, and then hand-stitch or machine-sew the final side closed. An envelope closure (like on some pillowcases) is also a great option for easy removal and washing.
- No-Sew Method: Use strong fabric glue or iron-on hem tape. Fold the edges neatly around the cushion insert, like wrapping a present, and secure the seams according to the product instructions. Ensure the glue is fully cured and non-toxic before use.
Whichever method you choose, make sure the finished cushion fits nicely inside the nightstand base without bunching up too much.
Step 5: Assemble and Finish
Place the finished cushion inside the prepared nightstand cabinet. Check that everything feels secure and there are no sharp edges or exposed staples/glue. If you painted the exterior, ensure it’s completely dry and cured according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
You can add little touches like hanging a small, safe cat toy from the ‘ceiling’ inside or placing a small scratch pad nearby (but not inside, usually). Put the nightstand in its intended spot in your room.
Introducing Your Cat to Their New Digs
Cats can be wary of new things. Don’t just plonk them inside! Place the nightstand bed in its final location and let your cat discover it on their own terms. You can encourage exploration by:
- Placing a few favorite treats just inside the entrance.
- Sprinkling a little catnip inside (if your cat responds to it).
- Putting a familiar blanket or toy inside temporarily to transfer their scent.
- Simply leaving it alone and letting curiosity do its work.
Never force your cat inside. Patience is key. Once they realize it’s a safe, dark, comfy spot, chances are they’ll claim it as their own personal fortress of solitude (and sleep).
Beyond the Basic Bed
This concept is adaptable! You could use an end table, a small media console, or even modify a larger cabinet if you have multiple cats. Consider adding a small ‘curtain’ over the entrance using a tension rod and a piece of fabric for extra privacy. If the nightstand has a drawer above the bed space, that remains perfectly usable for your own storage. You could even paint the inside a contrasting color for a fun peekaboo effect.
Creating a hidden cat bed inside a nightstand is a satisfying DIY project that benefits both you and your feline companion. It provides a dedicated, secure space for your cat while maintaining the tidiness and style of your home. It’s a testament to how a little creativity and repurposing can lead to purr-fectly practical solutions. So, next time you see an old nightstand looking neglected, picture its potential as a cozy secret haven for your furry best friend.
