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These four IKEA pet hacks turn ordinary storage and doll furniture into dedicated zones for cats and dogs: a climbing-and-play wall, a dog bed that disappears into a drawer, a miniature cat bed, and a concealed litter station. They are adaptations rather than ready-made pet products, so measure your furniture, check stability and clearances, and assess whether each design suits your individual animal before modifying anything.
The ideas come from Rebecca Lowrey Boyd’s Better Homes & Gardens Australia article, published May 29, 2020: “4 ingenious Ikea hacks for pets”. Product names and prices below describe the Australian market in 2020; they are historical references, not current quotes or guarantees of stock.
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At a glance: what each hack does
The four concepts solve different household problems. The KALLAX arrangement gives a cat vertical activity and storage. The MANDAL idea uses dead space under a bed for a dog’s sleeping place. The DUKTIG project creates a small, visible bed for a cat. The laundry-cabinet concept hides a litter tray while keeping cleaning supplies close by.
| Project | Pet and purpose | Main IKEA component named in the source | Modification level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cat play system | Cat; climbing, play and accessory storage | 77 × 77 cm KALLAX shelving unit, with baskets and a BÄSTIS hook | Low to moderate: arrange storage and add accessories; stability must be checked |
| Foldaway dog bed | Dog; sleeping space that can be tucked away | Storage drawer in a MANDAL bed frame | Moderate: the drawer, bedding and dog’s movement must be compatible |
| Miniature cat bed | Cat; compact sleeping spot | DUKTIG doll bed with bedlinen | Low: repurpose the doll bed and add washable bedding |
| Hidden litter area | Cat; conceal a litter tray and organize supplies | Laundry cabinet, cat flap, rail and tall litter container | High: requires cutting the cabinet for a cat flap and planning access |
The original article does not report comparative testing, load ratings, construction drawings or pet-safety certification for any of these arrangements. Treat the table as a planning map, not a performance ranking.
#1 Best Overall
- Pet Friendly: Put a cat litter box in the cabinet below, there will be a private washroom for your kitties, and less smell in your home. Put a cat bed in the enclosure with some toys, there will be a nice and quite spot for your kitten to nap
- Fits Most OF Litter Boxes: Sized 31.5” L x 19.7” W x 19.7” H, The cat furniture is big enough for most of litter box and avoid litter scattering
- All-in-One Pet Furniture: It is not only a cat litter box enclosure but also can be used as a cat house. Meantime, you can use this furniture as an end table or coffee table next to the sofa because of its' fashionable furniture style, or top it off with lovely plants to enliven your home
- More Considerate Details: You can install the entrance of the cat on the left or right for the convenience of you and your cat.Double cabinet doors allow you to scoop the litter daily and store cat food more conveniently.water-resistant veneered surface make cleaning a breeze
- What’s in the Package: The clear instructions, the necessary tools and hardware is also included. This litter box furniture will gives your cat a hidden space to poop and turn the once-mess spot into a cozy and neat one
1. Turn a KALLAX unit into a cat playground
The clearest idea in the source is a 77 × 77 cm KALLAX shelving unit used as a compact cat playground. Baskets occupy some cubbies, while a hook holds toys or walking accessories. The result combines vertical interest with a place to put the objects that otherwise collect around a room.
Named components
- KALLAX shelving unit, 77 × 77 cm
- BÄSTIS hook
- HURRING bamboo basket
- FLÅDIS seagrass basket
The source does not specify which cubbies receive which basket, how the unit is anchored, or what weight each compartment can safely carry. Before placing a cat on or inside any part of the arrangement, follow the current assembly instructions for the exact KALLAX model and inspect the finished unit for rocking, loose fixings and sharp edges.
A practical planning sequence
- Measure the location. Record floor width, ceiling clearance and the distance from nearby furniture. Leave enough room to open baskets and to clean around the unit.
- Decide what is for the cat. A cubby can be left open for exploration, while another can hold toys. Keep heavy or breakable objects in the lowest storage position.
- Fit baskets without forcing them. Check that HURRING or FLÅDIS baskets slide in and out without catching on the frame. Natural-fibre baskets can vary slightly in shape.
- Place the hook where it cannot snag the animal. Use the BÄSTIS hook for lightweight accessories, and check that no loop, cord or strap hangs at head or paw level.
- Test stability before introducing the cat. Push gently from several directions, confirm that the unit sits flat, and use the manufacturer’s recommended wall-fixing method where applicable.
If you paint or seal any wooden or fibre surfaces, keep the cat away during application and until the coating has cured according to its label. Do not cover ventilation openings or create a compartment that the cat cannot leave easily.
Rank #2
- EASY ACCESS FOR CATS: The swinging plastic door allows your cat to enter and exit the hooded cat litter box with ease while keeping the interior mess contained
- ODOR CONTROL: The litter boxes feature a pre-installed carbon filter, reducing unpleasant odors, with replacement filters sold separately for continued freshness
- STAIN AND ODOR RESISTANT: The covered litter box is crafted from durable plastic that resists stains and odors and provides a clean and hygienic environment for your furry friend
- SPACIOUS ENCLOSED DESIGN: This enclosed litter box provides your cat a private space, offering a comfortable area to do their business in peace
2. Make a foldaway dog bed from a MANDAL drawer
The second concept uses a storage drawer in a MANDAL bed frame as a dog sleeping space. During the day, the drawer can be pushed back under the bed so the room returns to normal use. It is attractive for homes where a permanent dog bed would block a walkway.
What the source does—and does not—establish
The article names a MANDAL bed frame with headboard but gives no build instructions, drawer dimensions, ventilation guidance or safety assessment. It also does not state a suitable dog size. You must therefore verify the exact frame and drawer sold in your market and decide whether your dog can enter, turn around, lie down and exit without pinching paws or scraping its back.
Checks before using the drawer
- Interior fit: measure the drawer opening and usable length, then compare those measurements with your dog in its normal sleeping position.
- Movement: inspect runners and stops. A dog shifting its weight can move a lightly loaded drawer, so confirm that it cannot roll unexpectedly or close on the animal.
- Air and temperature: do not block the space with dense bedding or push the drawer tightly against a wall if that restricts airflow.
- Surface condition: remove splinters, protruding hardware and rough edges. Use a washable mat that lies flat rather than loose fabric that can bunch under paws.
- Supervision: introduce the bed with the drawer fully open. Watch how your dog enters and leaves before considering any tucked-away use.
Keep the drawer open whenever the dog is inside unless you have independently confirmed that the design cannot move or trap the animal. The hack is best understood as a space-saving idea, not as evidence that every MANDAL drawer is suitable for every dog.
Rank #3
- More Privacy and Less Odor: This cat restroom provides your cat with a hidden and relaxing toilet space without the odor and litter, and you can reduce the unpleasant mess
- Separate Corridor Design: It makes the entry route for cats curved, which not only greatly improves the privacy of cats, but also prevents dogs from intruding
- The Perfect Blend of Family: This rustic style and unique barn door shaped litter box cabinet can be used as a cat litter box or as a finished cat house, giving your cat a comfortable home
- Rich Features: Carpet inside the litter box to prevent litter from flying around; cat scratching ball with bell to keep cats playing happily; sturdy latch that won't open awkwardly on its own
- More Stable: This litter box enclosure has 4 adjustable feet at the bottom to solve the problem of uneven ground causing the front door to tilt
3. Repurpose a DUKTIG doll bed for a small cat bed
A DUKTIG doll bed with bedlinen becomes a miniature cat bed in the third idea. The Better Homes & Gardens Australia article credits the pictured setup to Serena Boleto’s Instagram account, @veggiedayz. Unlike the KALLAX project, this is a single-purpose resting spot with almost no furniture alteration.
Set it up for everyday use
- Confirm the footprint. Place the empty doll bed on a level surface and compare its interior length and width with your cat’s curled and stretched positions.
- Use secure, washable bedding. Fit the bedlinen so it cannot slide into a gap. Choose fabric that can be removed for laundering and inspect seams regularly.
- Choose a calm location. Keep the bed away from doors, heater outlets and high-traffic corners, while leaving the cat a clear route out.
- Check the frame periodically. Tighten hardware and look for cracks or exposed fasteners after moving the bed or washing its bedding.
The DUKTIG bed is presented as a cat bed, not designed or certified as an animal product. A larger cat, a cat that sleeps stretched out, or a home with boisterous dogs may need a different-sized, sturdier resting surface. Do not elevate the doll bed unless you can verify that it remains stable and that a fall would not create a hazard.
4. Hide a litter tray inside a laundry cabinet
The most involved project conceals a litter tray in a laundry cabinet. A cat flap cut into the cabinet side provides entry; a rail stores accessories; and a tall container holds spare litter. This can keep the tray out of sight while concentrating the broom, dustpan and supplies in one cleaning zone.
Rank #4
- Hide the Litter, Elevate Your Home: Designed to discreetly hide the litter box while blending seamlessly with your home décor. Keeps your living space clean, stylish, and free from litter box clutter—no more visual mess.
- Dog-Proof Design for Multi-Pet Homes: The enclosed structure effectively prevents dogs and other pets from accessing the litter box, reducing mess, odors, and unwanted snacking. A must-have solution for multi-pet households focused on hygiene and safety.
- Reduce Litter Tracking & Improve Cleanliness: The side-entry design helps limit litter scatter as cats exit, keeping floors cleaner and maintaining a healthier environment for both pets and people.
- More Than a Litter Box Cabinet: Functions as a stylish end table, bedside table, or storage cabinet. The spacious interior fits most standard litter boxes (25.1"L x 16.7"W x 16.1"H), while the top surface is perfect for décor or daily essentials.
- Sturdy, Easy to Clean & Simple Assembly: Built with durable engineered wood and strong metal legs, supporting up to 132 lbs. Smooth surfaces are easy to wipe clean. Comes with clear instructions and all necessary tools for quick, hassle-free assembly.
Materials named in the 2020 article
- HÅLLBAR bin
- BORSTAD broom
- BORSTAD dustpan and brush set
- A laundry cabinet, cat flap, accessory rail and tall container for spare litter
The source does not identify the cabinet model, cat-flap model, opening dimensions or installation method. Those omissions matter: cabinet panels differ in thickness, internal shelves can obstruct the route, and a flap sized for one cat may not suit another.
Plan the modification before cutting
- Measure the cat and tray. Record the cat’s shoulder width and the tray’s length, width and height. Allow room for the cat to enter, turn and leave without striking the cabinet frame.
- Map the interior. Confirm that hinges, shelves, plumbing and electrical services will not occupy the proposed flap location. Keep the tray removable for washing.
- Follow the flap manufacturer’s template. Mark the opening on the cabinet side, drill and cut only with the correct tools for the panel, then smooth and protect the cut edge.
- Control access during the transition. Introduce the flap with the door secured open or removed, then practice until the cat uses it confidently. Never force a frightened cat through the opening.
- Organize cleaning supplies. Hang the BORSTAD broom and dustpan set on a rail where they cannot fall into the cat’s route. Keep spare litter in a closed, stable container that the cat cannot tip.
- Inspect daily. Check for blocked entry, damp litter, damaged edges and lingering odour. A cabinet hides visual clutter; it does not remove the need for frequent tray maintenance.
Keep the cabinet ventilated enough for safe use, but do not promise that enclosing a tray will reduce odour: the source provides no evidence for that claim. If the cat refuses the enclosed location, return the tray to an accessible position and reassess the layout.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Historical Australian prices and named products
The following figures are copied from the May 29, 2020 Australian article. They were prices listed at that time in Australian dollars, not recurring prices or current offers. Product names, dimensions and availability may have changed, and the source does not confirm stock outside Australia.
Best Value
- Hide the Litter, Elevate Your Home: Designed to discreetly hide the litter box while blending seamlessly with your home décor. Keeps your living space clean, stylish, and free from litter box clutter—no more visual mess.
- Dog-Proof Design for Multi-Pet Homes: The enclosed structure effectively prevents dogs and other pets from accessing the litter box, reducing mess, odors, and unwanted snacking. A must-have solution for multi-pet households focused on hygiene and safety.
- Reduce Litter Tracking & Improve Cleanliness: The side-entry design helps limit litter scatter as cats exit, keeping floors cleaner and maintaining a healthier environment for both pets and people.
- More Than a Litter Box Cabinet: Functions as a stylish end table, bedside table, or storage cabinet. The spacious interior fits most standard litter boxes (25.1"L x 16.7"W x 16.1"H), while the top surface is perfect for décor or daily essentials.
- Sturdy, Easy to Clean & Simple Assembly: Built with durable engineered wood and strong metal legs, supporting up to 132 lbs. Smooth surfaces are easy to wipe clean. Comes with clear instructions and all necessary tools for quick, hassle-free assembly.
| Item | Price listed in 2020 (A$) | Use in the concept |
|---|---|---|
| KALLAX shelving unit, 77 × 77 cm | A$50 | Base of the cat play system |
| BÄSTIS hook | A$1.50 | Holds toys or accessories |
| HURRING bamboo basket | A$25 | Storage in the KALLAX arrangement |
| FLÅDIS seagrass basket | A$11.99 | Storage in the KALLAX arrangement |
| MANDAL bed frame with headboard | A$849 | Contains the drawer used as a proposed dog bed |
| DUKTIG doll bed with bedlinen set | A$24.99 | Miniature cat bed |
| HÅLLBAR bin | A$7.99 | Container in the litter-storage area |
| BORSTAD broom | A$3.99 | Cleaning tool stored near the litter tray |
| BORSTAD dustpan and brush | A$17.99 | Cleaning tools stored near the litter tray |
Use these numbers only to understand the original setup’s context. Check the current product page, dimensions and local price before buying anything, and substitute a comparable item when a named component is unavailable.
How to choose the right hack for your home
- Choose KALLAX when your cat benefits from vertical activity and you have a stable floor location for a shelving unit.
- Choose the MANDAL drawer idea when floor space is limited and your dog’s size and movement can be accommodated safely; it requires the most careful fit assessment.
- Choose DUKTIG for a small, visible resting place that can be moved easily and checked at a glance.
- Choose the cabinet concept only when you can modify the panel accurately, keep the tray accessible for cleaning and provide an entry that suits your cat.
For every project, inspect the actual product you own rather than relying on an old photograph or a past catalogue description. Better Homes & Gardens Australia quoted IKEA Australia interior designer Tabitha Lage explaining the motivation this way: “As we spend more time at home, we see more of how our pets live their lives in our homes. It’s only natural that we have a desire to create spaces within our homes that allow our pets to express themselves and have their own space.” The quote appears in the May 29, 2020 article linked above.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
