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Ask A Minnesota Expert: Tips For Building A Cat Tunnel

When finding the best cat tunnel for your cats there are two ways to go. You can either consume your time browsing shops looking for the size, the color and the best features that you want, or you can do it yourself. In the process, you can create a striking work of art on your own, save a ton of money and involve the family, creating a better home for you and your pets.

Joseph Tilseth
Founder and Executive Director
Cat Friends of Minnesota

93 S. Garfield St., Suite 2
Saint Paul, MN 55102

651-404-8577
www.catfriendsofmn.com

"I owe it to Rasputin, my 9-year-old Bengal cat, that I will gladly share my knowledge on building a cat tunnel," Joe Tilseth said. "Rasputin was there to comfort and motivate me during my toughest days of transition to civilian life." Having spent over seven years in active duty in the United States Marine Corps supporting the Global War on Terrorism, Tilseth now has devoted his life to sharing his love and enthusiasm for cats through Cat Friends of Minnesota. The organization finds permanent homes or foster homes for cats, helps lost cats find their people and informs the public on topics related to cats.

Here are five tips on how to create a happy home for your cat with a tunnel from Tilseth:

cat perch
(credit: CBS)

Safety First

Do you want your cat to use the tunnel and keep coming back? Make sure it is safe and sturdy before you introduce it to your cat. Inspect the tunnel for any weak spots, exposed adhesive or exposed fasteners. Check to make sure you are using only non-toxic adhesives (you can find many at any local DIY store). By ensuring the tunnel is safe, you are ensuring your cat does not form a negative association with all tunnel-like toys and furniture.

Start at Home

You might have all the materials to build a wonderful cat tunnel at home; check before you head to the craft store. Research different styles and "how to" create the tunnel before you search your home and garage for materials. Enlist friends and family to help construct the tunnel. Their input is valuable, and they will bond with your cat through shared experience.

Let Kitty Choose

Cats can be choosy, so let him or her choose which tunnel is best by building two or three different styles of tunnel. You can search online for DIY videos and blogs, or visit the DIY section at our website. Space out introducing each tunnel by approximately two weeks; your cat will appreciate having new tunnels to look for in the future.

Related: Best Pet Rescue Shelters In Minnesota

Reward Kitty

Give your fur baby some catnip, a treat or tease him or her into the tunnel with a toy. Encourage your feline to enter the tunnel by calling to him or her in a sweet voice. Maybe tease your kitty into the tunnel the first few times. Cats love to be wooed into trying new experiences, so use rewards to create a positive association between your cat and the new tunnel.

Related: Best Places To Go Holiday Shopping For Pets In Minnesota

Robin Johnson was born in Annandale, Minn. and graduated from Richfield High School and then the University of Minnesota where he studied Political Science, Business and Industrial Relations. A writer for Examiner.com, he also consults with a variety of organizations and individuals helping them develop and grow. His work can be found at Examiner.com.

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