Whether your cat is an indoor/outdoor pet or you’re taking care of a feral cat colony, an outdoor cat house can mean the world to them. Not only will it provide them protection from potential predators outside, it’ll also keep them safe from the elements. If you’re not already familiar, an outdoor cat house is similar to a dog house, but is made to withstand rain, snow, and everything in between. Plus, it will typically have two openings so the cat who uses it will never be trapped by a predator. Cats always need a good escape route in order to feel safe.
Many outdoor cat houses also come with some really cool features. Some outdoor cat houses are even designed to look like an actual house, for those who prioritize aesthetics. Still others are made of insulated materials or even heated, giving the cats who use them extra protection during cold weather months.
Consider the following criteria to find the best shelter for your cat:
✔️ Location: Where are you putting this outdoor cat house? (Don't forget to measure!)
✔️ Size: Will the cat house need to accommodate just one cat or multiple? Make sure the outdoor cat house is large enough to accommodate your cat (and perhaps your cat’s friends).
✔️ Insulation: Does your cat need protection from cold weather?
✔️ Weatherproofing: Will the cat house need to be weatherproof through all four seasons? If an outdoor cat house needs to be plugged into an outlet, for instance, make sure it will stay dry. Confirm that rain or melting snow will not be a factor.
✔️ Price point: How much do you want to spend?
How we chose the best outdoor cat houses
These are the most important things to consider before you buy an outdoor cat house:
Multiple exit points. So a cat never gets trapped inside by a predator. That means, look for a cat house that has a front opening and a back opening, giving them the opportunity to walk in one side and out the other.
Materials. Will they actually withstand the elements? Are they durable? PVC and wood are good options. If it’s a fabric, it likely won’t last.
Safety. The outdoor cat house should not look or feel like a cage. It will need to be inviting to a cat, and they won’t want to feel trapped. No matter what, always consider safety.
Positive reviews. Buying things online is not always easy, and the buyers who have been there and done that are your best source of info. We looked for reviews with thoughtful comments and that considered use case.
Ysolt UsiganYsolt Usigan is a lifestyle writer and editor with 15+ years of experience working in digital media.
