DIY Cat Running Wheel

Depending on the breed, cats can be active or passive. Some sleep almost all day, only breaking for food, while others have a hunting instinct that drives them to be very active. These cats need to expend their energy daily. Small apartments don't give them much room to move around, and owners are unlikely to be thrilled with a cat that's constantly jumping on the walls and windowsTherefore, a running wheel is essential for such pets.

Benefits of a running wheel

In fact, the exercise wheel is useful for cats of any personality. Energetic cats will be able to run around to their heart's content, while calmer ones can work off some excess fat. Excess weight is especially problematic for spayed and neutered cats. For them, the wheel is an effective way to shed a few extra pounds. Owners should remember that obesity in cats can also lead to heart and joint problems, just like in humans. Furthermore, your pet will appreciate the wheel's unique design. They'll definitely enjoy the activity—it'll alleviate depression and improve their mood.

You can make a cat running wheel yourself. Not only will making one yourself save you a significant amount of money (between 10,000 and 25,000 rubles), but you'll also get a unique design that no one else will have. However, before you start shopping for materials, you should research the specifics of a cat-friendly running wheel.

What you need to know about a running wheel

To make a successful "cat trainer," it's not enough to have all the necessary tools and materials. It's important that the final design appeals to your cat. To achieve this, it must meet the following requirements:

• Large wheel diameter. A cat won't have to bend its body unnaturally if the wheel's circumference allows it to keep its back straight. Pet stores often offer wheels that are 80 and 120 cm high, but that's not the limit. If, for example, a Maine Coon will be running in it, the wheel diameter can be even larger.
• A non-slip inner surface. If your cat's paws constantly slip while running, they'll definitely get bored. At best, they'll simply jump out of the machine; at worst, they might twist their paw. So, carpet or felt is the ideal surface.
• Wheel design. If your cat is very active and adventurous, a running wheel with an internal wall is best. This will prevent the animal from flying off while running and help coordinate its movements.

How to make a simulator yourself

There are numerous photos and videos of various DIY cat wheel designs. This article will provide several step-by-step instructions.

Method one

This option will be quite challenging for those who have never installed bearings or rollers. More experienced craftsmen will be able to figure it out without any difficulty, as photos are provided as guiding instructions.

To work you will need:

• plywood;
• miter saw;
• rail;
• rollers;
• pencil;
• Dremel;
• centimeter;
• bearing;
• timber;
• rope;
• fasteners;
• carpet;
• drill;
• glue;
• grinder;
• bolt with nut;
• clamps;
• knife;
• double-sided tape.

The sequence of actions can be divided into seven stages:

• Making the base. Cut two plywood circles with a radius of 46 cm, which will serve as the base of the wheel. Connect them together using blocks.

• Making the slats. Slats are glued around the end piece. For added strength, they are tied together with straps.

• Installation on casters. Two casters are attached to two semicircular stands on each side, onto which the running wheel will later be mounted. These casters are what allow the machine to rotate.

• Installing the wall. Another plywood circle is cut out and glued to the support. The bearing will be attached to it later.

• Axle placement. Since the running wheel rotates on an axle consisting of a bolt and bushing, the mounting location must be reinforced. To do this, glue a plywood square to the back of the wall, and place the gear on the front. Drill a hole in the center.

• Making the stand. It's made from a support and beams shaped like a post. Two boards are secured to it, into which bearings are installed.

• Attaching the track. Cut a strip of carpet the width of the wheel. Adhere it with double-sided tape.

Method two

This option requires a welding machine, but the manufacturing process is slightly simpler than the previous one. To make your own cat running wheel with hands According to the instructions you will need:

• steel profile;
• plywood;
• wooden barrel;
• boards;
• bearings;
• wire;
• fasteners and wrench;
• welding machine;
• dye;
• drill;
• jigsaw;
• roulette.

The sequence of actions consists of three stages:

• Create a frame to which the ring will be attached. To do this, weld a rectangular frame from a steel profile. Weld a crossbar immediately on the long side, 10 cm from the edge. Weld two posts for the hinge to this crossbar at a 30-45 degree angle.
• Making the treadmill itself. Cut off a section of the barrel. To prevent the boards from falling apart, they need to be secured with bolts. Cut a back wall for the drum from plywood. The circumference should be slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the narrow end of the barrel.
• Assembling the structure. Attach the drum to the hinge so that it can rotate freely. This should be done so that the wheel only rotates forward and backward, and does not wobble left and right.

Whether you make your own cat wheel or buy it from a specialty store, it needs to be securely fastened. This is important to prevent your cat from tipping it over and injuring itself when jumping.

If the running wheel is made according to all recommendations and securely fastened in the house, you can be sure that it will become one of your pet's favorite places to spend active time.

A helpful video on how to make a cardboard cat wheel:

Read also:

• Harness for cats
• DIY cat blanket for post-operative use
• DIY cat hammock