Frequently Asked Questions

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Installation

How is the furniture installed?

Our furniture is designed to be installed into stud centers spaced 16” apart but can easily be modified for 24” stud spacing. We do not recommend using drywall anchors or any similar support as the primary support for our furniture. This is because, during our weight tests, we found that even the sturdiest wall anchors would be unable to hold up to the force of a cat jumping on the furniture and would sometimes tear from the wall, causing damage.

If you have studs at irregular or inconsistent intervals, please contact us before placing your order and we can provide advice on the best way to install the furniture.

To reduce stress on the furniture and your cats, we recommend each level of your cat wall be spaced 12-18″ apart vertically and no more than 24″ apart horizontally. We found this to be a safe distance for cats with no mobility issues to move between levels easily.

Our Mounting Planks are designed with hidden brackets that create a floating look when installed. The brackets are already attached and our detailed instructions will guide you through the installation process. Each listing also includes a copy of the mounting instructions as a downloadable pdf. For more information on installation best practices, please reference our installation page.

What materials will I need to mount my furniture?

To install the furniture, you will need the following materials:

  • Power Drill
  • Stud Finder
  • Tape Measure
  • Pencil

All necessary screws and drill bits are included with your order. Physical mounting instructions will be included with your order.

What if my studs are metal?

For metal studs, we recommend mounting the furniture using #8 x 2” flat Phillips-head tek screws. We also have these screws available on our site under Furniture Hardware. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.

Can I install into brick/concrete?

Yes! Installing the furniture into brick or concrete is nice because the entire wall is essentially one large stud.

If you’re mounting into brick be sure to drill your holes into the brick and not the mortar between the bricks. That will give a much more solid hold.

You will need a masonry bit and for screws, we suggest using Tapcon.

The hardware we send as default will not be suitable for concrete or brick. Installing into concrete will require additional hardware that we will not be able to provide. You will need a masonry bit, and for the screws, we recommend using Tapcon. You will then be able to install our Mounting Planks as normally instructed. 

Please refer to our Mounting Guides page for more information.

*Please note that we have included links to Amazon products, which are affiliate links. This means that we may receive a portion of the sale if one is made through the provided links.

Do the shelves come with mounting equipment?

Yes, all of our products come with any necessary mounting hardware. Our products come with standard wood screws as default. If you have metal studs, alternative hardware is available.


Our modular furniture allows you to design your own layout and build upon your existing cat Condo. Certain layouts will require additional hardware that does not come default with most orders. If you would like to stack two bamboo pieces on the same mounting point, such as a Bridge connected to a Shelf Top, you will need our Long Furniture Bolts to secure both pieces. These are not included with most items but can be added to an order.

Can I install the furniture facing the opposite direction?

Yes, the modular design of the furniture allows you to easily flip the design of any of our Condos. The furniture will arrive disassembled, giving you the freedom to work with your space. You can mirror any Condo layout or even split the pieces up and install them in your own arrangement.

Can I install the furniture outside?

We do not recommend our products for outdoor use. Bamboo has a high starch and sugar content. Since our bamboo is composed of many layers of compressed reeds, the bamboo can mold over time in areas with high humidity or regular exposure to rain. We are currently in the process of testing sealant options that will protect the material. In the future, we hope to offer furniture that can withstand the elements for our customers who would like to expand their Catastrophic Layout to the outdoors. At this time, we ask that our furniture is used indoors only.

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Shipping & Returns

What is your shipping policy?

Free shipping applies to all orders within the contiguous United States over $59. Shipping rates for orders below $59 will be calculated automatically at checkout. US and international shipping options are available. Our Free Standard Shipping uses UPS Ground or a similar service level.

Transit Times  – All orders are shipped from our Grand Rapids, MI facility within 3-5 business days via FedEx, UPS, or USPS. In situations where the shipping time may be delayed temporarily for an item, you will see a disclaimer in the item description.

All delivery times are estimated. Please contact us before ordering if you need your order delivered by a certain date and we can look into upgrading your shipping option.

If you would like a signature added to a smaller order, please send us a message either before or within one day of ordering.

PO Boxes – Unfortunately, we are unable to ship large packages to PO boxes. Please provide us with a valid street address for delivery.

What are your processing times?

All orders are shipping within 3-5 business days unless otherwise notified. Once your order ships, you will receive tracking information via email.

What's my order status?

All of our orders ship within 3-5 business days! If there is an expected delay for any particular item, there will be a disclaimer in the listing under the product description. You will receive tracking information via email once your order has shipped. If you have not received this email, please double-check that the email address provided is correct and look through your spam inbox. If you have any questions or concerns about the status of your order, please feel free to contact us.

What if my order is lost or damaged?

If your package arrives damaged, please keep the original box and all packing materials. Inspect all items to ensure that none have been damaged, and contact us immediately at support@catacreations.com. We will need photos of the inside and outside of the box, the shipping label, and any damaged items.

We will do our best to resolve your issue and send out replacement items as quickly as possible. If you experience any issues with your order or believe you received a defective item, please contact us right away. DO NOT modify or alter your furniture, as this may affect its eligibility for return or replacement.

If your package has not arrived within the expected time frame, we will certainly help you determine what happened and find the right solution. First, we suggest double-checking that your shipping address is correct. If it is correct, please check with your neighbors or, if you live in an apartment complex, the main office, in case the package was left at an incorrect address. The next option is to reach out to your local post office/UPS location to inquire about the package. If the package is still lost, please contact us at support@catacreations.com. We will ensure your package gets to you in the end! We ask for your patience, as this process can take time to investigate.

What is your return policy?

We strive to ensure you are completely satisfied with your purchase. If, for any reason, you need to return or exchange an item, we are here to help make the process as smooth as possible. Before initiating a return, please take a moment to review our return policy to ensure all requirements are met. This will help avoid any potential issues and ensure a hassle-free experience.

Returns are accepted within 60 days of receiving your order. Please note that we are unable to cover return shipping costs or accept returns on used cat furniture.
If you’re having installation issues or your cat is hesitant about using their new furniture, we’re here to work with you to make this a positive experience. If you would like our specialists to provide suggestions based on your specific situation, please send an email to support@catastrophicreations.com. Please include a picture of your full layout along with the specific issue, and we’ll share some ideas. We also have Acclimation Tips, which provide general guidelines for introducing your cat to the furniture.

When returning items, shipping costs will be the customer's responsibility. We are not able to accept returns on damaged furniture, so be sure to securely package the furniture to prevent possible damage. Upon request, we’re happy to provide a prepaid return label for your return and deduct the cost from your final refund.

Outside the 60-day return window?
Although we do not accept returns outside this timeframe, we always do our best to ensure you and your cat are happy with the furniture. If you’re outside the 60-day return window, please reach out to us with any issues, and we will do our best to rectify the situation.

Does Catastrophic Creations ship internationally?

Yes, we can ship our products worldwide and we have shipped plenty of orders internationally! The website will automatically quote the shipping cost for you at checkout. You can add items to your cart and proceed to checkout for more information on shipping costs. If you notice any issues with the shipping cost, you can email us your address and list of items you want to order. We can look into the quote further from our end.

Bear in mind that international orders may be subject to additional duties, taxes, or fees that are not collected at checkout. These are typically due upon receipt of the item. Unfortunately, we do not have a way to provide a quote on this. We recommend contacting your local customs office for more specific information.

There are no guaranteed delivery dates for international orders as they may be subject to customs delays beyond our control.

We cannot ship orders to the following countries: Russia, China, and Mexico.

International orders placed through a third party such as Etsy may be subject to additional import taxes, customs duties, or fees imposed by the destination country. These charges are typically due once the package arrives and will be the responsibility of the customer.

We also sell on Amazon UK*, Amazon CA, and Amazon AU. Item availability is subject to change.
*Amazon UK ships to some European countries.

Please follow the links below if you’d like to visit these stores.
Amazon UK
Amazon CA
Amazon AU

International Shipping Quotes:
Our website will automatically quote the cost of shipping with Duty and Tax included. When you check out, you'll pay those duties and taxes up front and we'll remit it to your local authorities on your behalf. If you have any questions or concerns about this process, please don’t hesitate to contact us!

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OUR FURNITURE & REPLACEMENTS

Where can I buy replacement parts?

We do offer replacements parts and have them available for purchase! You can find them under Replacement Parts in our menu. Please feel free to let us know if you have any additional questions!

What materials are used?

Our new design utilizes bamboo, a sustainable alternative to hardwood, which is very durable and water-resistant. It grows at an incredible rate of 3½ feet per day.

The other materials we use are:

  • Steel (brackets)
  • 12 oz cotton canvas (fabric)
  • Sisal rope (Floating Sisal Posts and Sisal Climbing Poles)
  • Stainless steel, rust-proof Planter Pots (included with each Planter)
  • 1/2 pint stainless steel dishes (2 included with each Feeder)
  • Clear Vinyl**
  • TPU coated cotton canvas (waterproof upgrade option for any fabric piece)
  • Faux fur (acrylic blend) 
  • Paracord (durable roping material for Bridges, the best option for cats who are prone to chewing)

    **Is the Invisible/Clear Vinyl safe for my cat?
    Yes, safety is very important to us and we worked diligently to make our selection. The vinyl sheets we use are from Joann Fabrics. To ensure that we are providing safe and healthy products for your cats, we shared the chemical list with a vet. They informed us that what you see about vinyl being toxic to pets is related to softeners that are used in specific types of vinyl (lead, Phthalate, and bisphenol), which aren’t in the vinyl we’re using. This vinyl is the same type used in other pet-safe settings such as the flaps made for pet doors. We have included the SDS report with the chemicals that are in the vinyl for reference: MSDS for PVC Film and Sheet

Will my large cat fit on this furniture? / What is the weight limit?

Yes, your cat will fit - we have a lot of large breed cat clients, such as Maine Coons, Savannahs, and Ragdolls!

The depth of our furniture is 11 inches (27.94 cm), except for the Floating Sisal Post, which is 9 inches (22.86 cm). The Escape Hatch hole is 8 inches (20.32 cm) in diameter.

Although we feel these measurements do a great job accommodating all domestic cat sizes, if you would like even more elbow room, consider our extra-large cat tree, The Overlook.

Cat Furniture Weight Limits

All of our cat furniture is rated to hold at least 62 lbs (28 kg) when assembled or installed correctly. For a closer look at mounting and wall constructions, please see our installation guide.

Wall Options

Proper installation is crucial for our furniture, and these weight limits reflect the furniture that is correctly installed into wall studs, cement, or brick walls.

Floor Options

We currently offer floor-standing options, which we suggest for cats with disabilities or elderly cats to avoid the risk of them going too high up the wall.

various product weight tests

 

How do I acclimate my cat to the Invisible Hammocks?

When introducing your cat to their new Hammock, please keep in mind that these are invisible. Acclimation takes a moment because we first have to prove to the cats that the Hammocks even exist. We have had really good luck with sprinkling dried chicken on them. Some other nice options would be catnip or their favorite treats. It’s always best to let your cat make the decision.

cat underneath clear cat hammock

How do I clean the furniture?

For an in-depth explanation on our Cat Tree cleaning suggestions, please read our blog on the subject!

Cleaning Gen. 3 (bamboo) Furniture

Standard Fabric: Use a cold, gentle machine cycle or hand wash in cold water. Hang to dry. The fabric may scrunch up a little but will stretch to its original form. Think of how your jeans are a little snugger right out of the wash. 

Clear Vinyl: One added benefit of utilizing clear vinyl for our Invisible Hammocks is that they are effortless to maintain. You can easily clean the transparent hammock while it remains mounted on the wall by wiping it down with soapy water or a pet-safe cleaner. As a result, we strongly suggest these hammocks for households with multiple cats as well as cat cafes/shelters.

TPU Fabric: We do not recommend putting our TPU fabric into a washing machine. This fabric can be wiped down with gentle soap. The best method for keeping this fabric clean is spot-cleaning any areas that become dirty.

Bamboo: You can dust, brush, or vacuum away any accumulated surface dirt. Use a soft cloth or sponge with mild soapy water. Make sure you wring out excess water and wipe the wood gently. We recommend an organic or natural soap rather than a harsh detergent. This is because a harsh soap can damage or discolor the natural sheen of the bamboo. Since bamboo is a reed plant, it is important to make sure you do not oversaturate the bamboo while cleaning.

Sisal: The Sisal Rope is not designed to be removed but can still be cleaned and sanitized. Use a mixture of sanitizer diluted with water with a rag or cloth to wipe down your Sisal Rope.

If your Sisal Segment is beyond sanitizing or has become worn out due to cat use, we also sell individual replacement Sisal Segments that can easily be swapped out!

Plush Bed: When you separate the Velcro and flip the Plush Bed over, you will see a zipper. Unzip the cover and remove the foam insert. Handwash the cover in cold water using a small amount of gentle soap. Let the cover soak for approximately thirty minutes, agitating the water occasionally.

Rinse the bed thoroughly, then press the water out of the faux fur before leaving the cover to air dry. We do not recommend putting the cover in the dryer as the fabric is sensitive to heat.

Cleaning Gen 2. “Cat Mod” Pine Furniture

Pine: You can dust, brush, or vacuum away any accumulated surface dirt. Use a soft cloth or sponge with mild soapy water. Make sure you wring out excess water and wipe the wood gently. We recommend an organic or natural soap rather than a harsh detergent. This is because a harsh soap can damage or discolor the natural sheen of the pine.

Cleaning Gen. 1 Furniture (Pine + Visible Brackets)
Fabric: This fabric is not removable, so it cannot be machine-washed. We recommend following this guide for cleaning any Gen. 1 furniture.

How has the furniture changed over the years?

Since starting in 2013, we have been consistently working on new designs and improvements that will allow us to continue to create safe, fun, and unconventional furniture for cats. We have been fortunate to see our designs grow through three different generations of furniture.

Gen 1: Our first generation of furniture was made from pine wood and utilized L-brackets for wall mounting. The mounting planks were fixed in place, meaning they couldn't be taken apart, and the canvas fabric was not removable. These items are not compatible with any other furniture collection.

Gen 2: Still crafted from pine, our second generation introduced a new style of bracket that fits between the top and bottom planks, allowing for a more versatile installation. The mounting planks could be separated into two pieces, and the fabric became removable, making it easier to clean and replace. The only guaranteed compatible component is the grommeted canvas fabric.

Gen 3: With our third generation, we transitioned to using bamboo and adopted our current design. This updated version of our Cat Mod collection retains the best features from previous generations, such as hidden brackets for a sleek, floating appearance and removable fabric for easy maintenance. The modular design remains, allowing for flexibility in orientation, rearrangement, custom Condo design, and expanding on existing installations. This generation represents the most refined version of our furniture to date!

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GENERAL INFO

Do you have coupons or sales right now?

When we run a promotion or sale, we will announce it on our social media. You can follow us on Instagram and Facebook for updates.

We will also send out a mailer to our newsletter subscribers. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Do you have layaway payment options?

We offer Affirm and Shop Pay as payment options. You can select any of these from the payment method page during the checkout process.

Do you do any Black Friday, Cyber Monday, or Christmas Sales?

We offer our deepest discount of the year during the holidays. Check out our Black Friday/Cyber Monday and Christmas Cat Gifts pages for details!

What are the terms for your promotion?

If you participate in our Catastrophic Creations promotions and giveaways you fully accept these general terms and conditions of Catastrophic Creations and you acknowledge that you fulfill all eligibility requirements.

ELIGIBILITY
If you are under the age of 18 you will have to obtain the approval of your parents or legal guardians to enter the Giveaways. Catastrophic Creations may ask you, at any stage, to provide us with proof of age and/or identity and/or proof of such approval, if relevant. Catastrophic Creations may exclude any participants who are not able to provide us with such proof. Employees of Catastrophic Creations are not eligible to participate.

DATE OF GIVEAWAYS
The monthly drawing shall begin on April 23, 2024 and end on May 27, 2024. The following months will begin on the 28th and end on the 27th of the next month. (i.e. May 28th - June 27th, June 28th - July 27th, etc.)

HOW TO ENTER
Enter your information through our web pop up or landing page and confirm your information to enter. No purchase necessary.

THE WINNER
The winner will be chosen at random from all correct entries. The winner will be notified by email on the 28th of the month. If the winner cannot be contacted or does not claim the prize within 48 hours, Catastrophic Creations reserves the right to withdraw the prize from the winner and pick a replacement winner. Catastrophic Creations decision in respect of all matters to do with the Giveaway will be final and shall not be subject to review or appeal by any entrant or by any third party.

PRIZE
The promotional prize shall be a Catastrophic Creations product as indicated on the Catastrophic Creations give away pop up. The prize is as stated and no cash or other alternatives will be offered.

PERSONAL DATA
Each winner agrees that, by participating in a Giveaway, Catastrophic Creations may use the winner’s name in any manner and in any medium for its promotional purposes without additional approval or compensation being required, including posting in a winner’s list, Social Media posts and/or stories.

LIMITATION OF LIABILITY
By entering the Giveaway each entrant agrees to release, discharge and hold harmless Catastrophic Creations, its legal representatives, respective officers, directors, employees and agents from any damages whatsoever suffered or sustained in connection with the Giveaway or the acceptance of the prize.

GENERAL TERMS & CONDITIONS
Catastrophic Creations reserves its right to cancel the Giveaways at any time or change the provisions of the General Terms & Conditions at its sole discretion and such change shall have immediate effect upon the publication thereof.