How It Works (and Why It Lasts)
One screw per shelf. Ten minutes. If you've ever hung a picture, you're overqualified.
Hi, I'm Jesse. Cat dad, engineer, guy who likes things simple.
The whole install
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Find the stud
The magnetic stud finder is in the box.
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Mark it
One blue tape square. Also in the box.
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One screw per shelf
Four for the Essentials Kit. Not fifteen.
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Done
About ten minutes, start to finish.
In the box
Magnetic stud finder, blue tape squares, structural screws, Torx bit, Allen wrench, and clear instructions. Everything but the drill.
Single-Screw Mount
This part’s trickier than it looks, but we cracked it. In fact, we filed a patent on it.
Simple & Sturdy
Built tough enough for all the jumping, climbing, and chaos your cat can dish out.
All You Need is a Drill
Really, we’ve got everything else covered. It's not your typical junk hardware.
Plan Your Space
Jump Path: Cats enjoy using existing features (like couches or windowsills) as part of their route.
Ideal Vertical Height: 8–18 inches between shelves along their path.
Layout Shape: Use straight lines or triangles (with two equal sides) for easy, natural flow.
Frequently asked setup questions
Is there an installation guide?
Yes. Every Well Played kit includes an easy-to-follow instruction sheet. Prefer to watch instead? We’ve got a step-by-step video guide on YouTube - [watch it here].
How does the Single-Screw Mount Work?
The mount is engineered with a concave underside that flexes securely against the wall when fastened to a stud. Silicone pads on the edges grip the surface, reducing slip and ensuring a strong, stable hold.
Does it have to attach to a stud?
Yes, both the hammock and shelves must be mounted into a wall stud. Drywall anchors can’t handle the dynamic loads of cats jumping and running, no matter what other products claim. For a secure, worry-free installation, use the studs - and don’t worry, we include a magnetic stud finder to make it easy.
What stud spacing do I need?
The hammock requires standard 16-inch stud spacing for proper installation. The shelves, however, can be mounted on any spacing - 16, 18, or 24 inches - it doesn’t matter.
How do I know if I’m attaching to a stud?
When installed correctly into a stud, the mount’s concave underside will flatten easily, as designed. If you miss the stud, the concave underside won’t flatten properly - a clear sign you need to adjust and try again.
Is it renter-friendly?
Well Played cat furniture is renter-friendly - our most popular kit needs only four small screw holes, versus up to 18 or more with comparable products - yeah, really.
Made From the Good Stuff
Premium Fabrics
A durable woven fabric that looks at home on your wall and holds up to years of napping and claws.
Sustainable Bamboo
Solid bamboo brings warmth and strength that lasts, and because it grows fast, it's the sustainable choice too.
Natural Tight Weave Sisal
A scratcher in disguise. Cats can't leave it alone, and it looks like a textured runner, not a scratching post.
Premium Fabrics
A durable woven fabric that looks at home on your wall and holds up to years of napping and claws.
Sustainable Bamboo
Solid bamboo brings warmth and strength that lasts, and because it grows fast, it's the sustainable choice too.
Natural Tight Weave Sisal
A scratcher in disguise. Cats can't leave it alone, and it looks like a textured runner, not a scratching post.
Why We Use Bamboo
We use bamboo because it’s strong, durable, and looks great in your home. Not the cheapest option - but the better one. Built to last, it gives your cat a space to climb, lounge, and play for years.
It started in a Colorado workshop. Just us, the cat, and way too many prototypes.
Every Well Played design was built by hand right here until it was right. We've grown to bring Well Played to more cats and more homes, but the design hasn't changed a bit. Same standards, same details, same care that started it all.
