“It’s a small thing to help one animal, but to that one animal it’s a big thing” – Gene Baur.
Do cats need outdoor homes? The answer is Yes. There are various scenarios when having an outdoor kitty house for felines proves beneficial.
For example, outdoor shelters are great for stray or feral cats. In other words, stray cats who hang out by your residence, enjoy catching snacks from you, but never wish to stay inside your home (even during extreme cold or rainy climate).
Rather than seeing them battle with these harsh outdoor elements, it is possible to help them stay dry and warm by providing them with an outdoor shelter where they can dwell in for safety against many types of unpleasant circumstances.
Apart from feral cats, outdoor homes are ideal for domesticated cats as well. For example, if you notice your kitty is tired of living indoors or if you think it is demanding a private space to do its own thing – having an outdoor cat home is super useful in such situations as well.
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Our top pick is K&H Pet Products A-Frame outdoor cat home. This home is sturdy and comfy. The fabric is waterproof and wind-resistant along with the heated mattress indoors ensures felines are comfy even in freezing temperatures. This home can easily accommodate two to three cats (based upon their size) and contains 2 exits or peek-a-boo holes so they never feel trapped inside.[/box]
Best Outdoor Cat Houses & Shelters
Cats love the outside, however, the outdoor conditions aren’t always favorable to them. When outside, precipitation and cold can be real dangers to your kitty’s comfort and wellbeing.
Whether you are concerned about your pet cat while they are outdoors or feeling worried how will the pregnant neighborhood stray survive with its babies in upcoming harsh winters, the best you can do is buying an outdoor cat house for them so that they can live comfortably in a safe, warm, and dry place with added protection for many types of outdoor hazards.
We analyzed dozens of cat homes to spot the very best of the best, focusing on things such as insulation, weatherproofing, size, warmth, and more to help you with buying an outdoor cat house that is worth the investment.
[highlight color=”yellow”]Best Overall:[/highlight] K&H Pet Products Multi-Kitty A-Frame
If you’re searching for an outdoor cat home that’ll keep your cats secure and comfortable, the K&H Pet Products Multi-Kitty A-Frame is the perfect option. The interior dimensions of this house are 24″ X 19″ X 18″ – easily accommodating three to four adult cats at a time.
The item comes in two versions – a heated and unheated version of the cat home. There is a price difference of $20 between both of these variants.
If you go with the heated variant, you can leave it plugged in 24/7 without ever worrying about electricity bills skyrocketing or dangers of electric shock. The 40-watt heating mattress only activates when the temperature reaches unbearably cold, and also it does not pose a fire risk. The cord which accompanies the home is around 5 feet long, so based on the place you would like to put the cat home, you might require an extension cable.
This cat house is easy to carry and set up – weighing a little over 7 lbs – so it is ideal for usage in semi-covered places, such as a garage or a porch. The exterior is 100% waterproof. The home has two entrance and exit holes, and both the openings are installed with detachable plastic curtains to help keep out the wind.
[box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””][highlight color=”yellow”]Best Weatherproof Cat Home:[/highlight] Petsfit Weatherproof Outdoor Cat Shelter
The Petsfit Weatherproof Outdoor Cat Shelter is an ideal option if you’re searching for an outdoor cat home that’ll keep your cats warm and comfy.
Constructed of durable oak wood, this cat home weighs about 45 pounds, which makes it easy to move from one place to another, however, the unit stays stationary wherever you place it.
The inner portion of the house measures 27.5″ X 17.5″ X 20″, which makes it a roomy hideaway for a single cat or two, and there’s even space available to fit a small litter pan and a cat feeder.
This cat house features two doors. Both the entrance doors are spacious and are shielded with plastic flaps for protection against wind and rain. The home includes a front step which can be used as a sunning porch by your cat and also a small dedicated balcony where you can place flowers for beauty.
This Petsfit Weatherproof Outdoor Cat Shelter’s flooring detaches for simple accessibility so it’s simple to keep this cat home clean. The sturdy feet at the bottom keep the whole unit elevated six inches above from the ground, which prevents rainwater as well as insects from entering inside. Although this cat home does not include an insulating material, the flooring has a dedicated compartment to place an additionally-purchased heating pad.
[/box][highlight color=”yellow”]Best Insulated Outdoor Cat Shelter:[/highlight] Kitty Tube Gen 3
If you reside in a place with freezing winters, then you are likely searching to get an insulated cat home that’ll keep your outside cats warm in winter. The Kitty Tube Gen 3 Cat House is an excellent option for this purpose.
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This revolutionary cat house has been built from one piece, with no joints or leaks, thus preventing water to enter inside. It has an insulated build material, which keeps the interior cool in summer and warm in winter. Unlike others, the Kitty Tube Gen 3 Cat House has just one door. The door is huge and is shielded with a detachable transparent flap. The single-door design helps keep warmth inside.
The lid of this house has a vent that reduces condensation inside. The lid unscrews for easy cleaning of the interior. The insulation is detachable, and the home includes a washable furry pillow to help keep the feline comfortable.
[box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””][highlight color=”yellow”]Best Waterproof Cat:[/highlight] New Age Pet ecoFLEX Albany Outdoor Feral Cat House
If your top priority is protecting your furry friend from water, then the New Age Pet ecoFLEX Albany Outdoor Feral Cat House is a great option for you. It is made from ecoFlex plastic-wood polymer composite.
EcoFLEX is totally waterproof and windproof and will not rust, split, warp, or crack. Additionally, it is amazingly easy to clean by simply spraying water and wiping it clean with a damp cloth.
The product is made to last for years – all thanks to its strong build quality. And even if you face any problem, stay assured as the product is backed by a 10-year warranty. The walls have been double paned for insulation, but at just under 17 inches square, it is big enough that you might also add extra insulation if necessary. You are probably going to wish to supply a mattress to make it even comfier.
Both doors, one to front and one to the other side, are covered with a transparent flap to keep out the elements. This home is also raised above the ground, to protect the cat from cold ground and pooling water.
[/box][highlight color=”yellow”]Best for Traveling:[/highlight] Milliard Portable Outdoor Cat House
The nylon canvas build quality not just gives this home durability but also protection against cold, light, snow, and rain. Be confident that your cat will always be warm and dry and that you won’t face any difficulty handling it or transferring it from one place to another.
You merely need minutes to place this item together since the zipper and Velcro strap offers simple assembly. Both doors facilitate security from predators too. We suggest that you use this thing if you are a regular traveler because this merchandise is fully transportable.
[box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””][highlight color=”yellow”]Best Elevated:[/highlight] Cozy Cat Furniture w/ Lounging Deck
As a weather-proof home, this unit is going to protect your furry friend from thunderstorms and all harsh weather conditions. We highly recommend this product if you live in areas where rain is a daily event. It has a proper insulation system so that your kitty is protected in all sorts of weather.
Handcrafted and neatly assembled using cedarwood, this home is proven to be totally waterproof and warm. The semi-covered front porch makes for an ideal resting place for felines to lounge. If needed, another door could be added to the design.
The strong wooden legs support the home above the ground so that the flooring remains completely dry even in floods. Furthermore, the dedicated lounging place outside the front door will make the cat say thank you for his/her time under sunlight. All of us know that they love scratching themselves and rolling over in the sun.
[/box][highlight color=”yellow”]Best Heated Outdoor Cat House:[/highlight] PETYELLA Cat Houses for Outdoor Cats
Beautiful in looks, this home fits nicely on balconies, porches, terraces, or can be tucked away in a garage. This home has two detachable flap doors and the inside room is sufficient enough to accommodate 1-2 adult cats.
Furthermore, it comes with a heated pad (with a chew-proof cable) along with an extension cable. The home is offered in various colors and prints.
However, this heated outdoor cat shelter is not appropriate for protection against rain. While the home’s flooring is waterproof, the sides and top are not water-resistant. This home can only withstand drizzles. It is best, therefore, to keep this cat home below a covered place.
[box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””][highlight color=”yellow”]Best for Multiple Cats:[/highlight] Trixie Cat Home and Enclosure
This magnificent three-story home is made up of weatherproof materials, along with the numerous windows that give it a cute beachy vibe. This home is elevated on a platform which prevents floods, insects, and pests like a snake from infesting the space.
The home features two entrances/exits and one big door that makes keeping the interior clean. The plastic folds provide air circulation whilst also shielding against snow or rain.
[/box][highlight color=”yellow”]The Most Luxurious:[/highlight] PawHut 2-Story Wood Cat House
Searching for something a bit more luxurious? This cat house has a fancy staircase, a terrace, and a roof. This kitty condo is created from fir timber and stays on feet that help keep it clear of bugs, water, and critters. Assembly is simple despite all the bells and whistles.
[box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””][highlight color=”yellow”]Best Budget Pick:[/highlight] Petmate Kitty Kat Condo
This item keeps your kitty warm and comfy without leaving your pocket empty. This outdoor home is made up of long-lasting, non-absorbent vinyl, and it is summarized in igloo design which will ease your kitty’s comfort. Its finishings are all mold-resistant, thus ensuring the home stays in the best condition even after so many years. The floor is carpeted as an added coziness factor.
[/box]Important Features to Consider About
An outdoor cat home should comply with a couple of quality standards. Here is what every purchaser must consider before investing in an outdoor cat home:
Size. The outdoor cat shelter should be spacious enough for the cat, however, you do not need one that offers more room than your cat needs. This is because the more roomy the home is, the harder it will be to keep the room warm in cold climates. Therefore, buy a large home only if you have multiple cats.
Warmth. Outdoor cat homes should be capable of keeping your cat warm and comfy in a cold climate. Some outdoor homes provide warmth using heated bedding, while some make it possible with insulation that traps the heat created by the kitty’s body. Some homes are also painted with weather-resistant paint or built with a special material to repel rain and cold winds. Additionally, some homes also offer you the ability to add your insulation.
Weatherproofing. An outdoor cat house should keep the feline residing inside away from elements such as rain and wind. When it comes to weatherproofing, it all depends on where you live. For example, if you live in an area where there are lots of rains, then you need a solid, rust-resistant home with no leaks or anything to repel heavy showers. And if you live in a place where there are chances of small floods, then buying an elevated home would be a better option. For areas with extreme snow, an electrically heated home will do the job.
Entrances and exits. Along with providing your cat a comfy shelter, an outdoor cat shelter should keep the feline away from risks like predators. Some homes have doors that are configured in this manner but some have two exits to permit cats to escape one door if a threat stems through the other door. Additionally, the existence of 2 doorways might help cats feel secure in the shelter and also invite it to be used by them. With double-doors, they won’t feel nostalgic either. On the flip side, if you are considering putting your cat house someplace you understand to be protected, then you might not have to be concerned a lot about risks going into the cat house in any way.
Cleaning. You have to keep the cat’s home cleaned so that smells do not develop inside and insects do not infest in there. Some cat homes have dedicated roofs, which can be lifted for easy cleaning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an outdoor cat home?
An outdoor cat house, also called outdoor cat shelter, is just what it sounds like: a refuge for cats when living outside. It gives a warm, secure, dry, and comfortable spot for cats in cold or rainy weather conditions.
How much cold can a cat bear when outdoors?
Cats have thick, fluffy coats however these coats do not give them complete protection against harsh climate. When the temperature dips below freezing, then it is too chilly for any feline to be outdoors with no secure haven. They are at risk for developing frostbite and hypothermia, which may be deadly if cats have been subjected to temperatures below 32 to 45 degrees Fahrenheit for a long time.
Other Outdoor Cat Houses We Have Reviewed
We analyzed several other outdoor cat homes as well. Though they did not make our top 10 outdoor cat homes list, they are still a fantastic option for your furry friend.
Single-Cat Houses Feral Cat House
This super-simple outdoor refuge is excellent for cats. Cut out the doors, set up a shelter, also place some straw inside the home and super-comfy room will be ready for the cat.
Key Characteristics:
- 15 5/8″ X 13″ X 14″ spacious interior
- Two doorways
- Vinyl sheeting to keep rain outside
- Suitable for feral cats
The Kitty Kasas Bedroom creates an ideal little hideaway for the kitty. It has a kitty bed and may be used out or indoors.
Key Characteristics:
- 15.62″ X 11.75″ X 16.12″ room
- Available in various colors
- Easy to scrub with water and soap
- Contains cat bed
- Could be stacked with additional accessories
In case you are trying to find something like our number-one choice, but somewhat smaller, this outside cat home is right for you. It is perfect for a cat.
Key Characteristics:
- 16″ X 20″ X 17″ interior
- Roof opens for easy cleaning
- Cedar timber manufacturing
- Asphalt roof
- Single doorway
Petsfit Triangle Outdoor Cat Shelter
This A-frame cat home is made of sturdy cedar timber. You might choose to place something under it to protect against the ground.
Key Characteristics:
- 18″ X 17″ room
- Two doorways
- Cedar timber
- Flaps on the front entrance
- Dedicated space for installing a heating pad
- Pre-drilled holes for simple assembly
Insulated Cat Outdoor Houses
Kitty Tube The Outdoor Cat House with Pet Pillow
Kitty Tube is a reputable name, known for manufacturing easy, no-frills outside cat homes which also do a fantastic job of keeping cats dry and warm.
Key Characteristics:
- Includes a machine-washable mattress
- The complete unit is lined with foam insulation
- Awning and detachable transparent flap on a predator-proof doorway
- Includes hand grips for easy handling
- Space for up to 2 cats
- Elevated ground with a drainage system along with a vented roof to permit moisture to escape
This kitty home features a self-heating pad onto the flooring which reflects your pet’s body heat back in the cat home rather than consuming it.
Key Characteristics:
- Self-heating flooring
- Two doorways for cat’s safety
- Made out of durable, solid nylon
- Covers are removable and machine washable
Trixie Pet Products Insulated Cat Home
The Trixie Pet Products Insulated Cat Home is a much more decorative solution for people who want to have an outdoor cat home that adds beauty to their lawn or garden.
Key Characteristics:
- Three entrance doors
- Raised from the ground to prevent flooding
- Textured ramp for easy accessibility
- Insulated to keep felines warm
Cell Glove Outdoor Heated Cat House
Maintain cats dry and warm with this insulated home. It is most effective for usage in an area just like a porch.
Key Characteristics:
- 18″ X 22″ X 17″ interior
- Water-resistant fabric
- Two doors with flaps
- Warming mat
- No tools needed for assembly
Waterproof Outdoor Cat Homes
Locking casters allow this outside cat house to move even though its larger size.
Key Characteristics:
- Double floors with an interior ramp for moving between floors
- Three entrances/exit points, each using a doorway or awning to keep precipitation outside
- Window towards the front of the top floor enables cats to see upcoming threats
- Big side door along with liftable lid for simple access for cleaning
- Two brake casters and normal casters
Petsfit 2-Story Weatherproof Outdoor Kitty Cat House
This massive kitty house includes bedrooms for 2 to 3 cats along with separate space for bedding, feeding bowl, and small litter box.
Key Characteristics:
- Two doors, one with a flap and one with an awning
- Interior hole lets access between floors
- An enormous window onto front permits cats to watch right out of the top flooring
- The roof lifts for simple cleanup
Petsfit Weatherproof OutDoor Chicken-Coop
Though designed like a chicken coop, the Petsfit OutDoor chicken-coop is a fantastic outdoor cat shelter with room for numerous cats and plenty of space for additional equipment such as a litter box, bedding, along with water and food bowls.
Key Characteristics:
- Three-floor panels lift for simple cleanup
- Accommodates multiple cats
- Roomy interior
This outdoor cat house includes a covered open space in addition to a cozy, comfy enclosed area underneath.
Key Characteristics:
- Covered exterior stair entry into the top flooring
- Lifted to stop a flood
- Awning protects the doorway from precipitation
- Easy to assemble
Heated Outdoor Cat Homes
Pawhut Heated Outdoor Cat Shelter
This cat refuge is ideal for sheltering cats during winter.
Key Characteristics:
- 20″ X 16″ X 14″
- Water-resistant fabric
- Two doorways
- Heat mat with pearl wool cover
Extreme Consumer Products Collapsible Outdoor Cat House
This heated outdoor cat shelter is simple to assemble and folds flat for easy storage when not needed or when traveling.
Key Characteristics:
- 2 doors, all using a flap
- Bed heats to 102ºF,
- Easy to store and assemble
- Easy to clean
K&H Pet Products Mod Thermo-Kitty Shelter
This heated cat house is infused with durable heat and extra insulating material.
Key Characteristics:
- Zipper assembly
- Removable fleece cover across the heated bed
- Only half of the bedding is heated, so cats can move to the other cooler half when they don’t require much warmth.
Heated Cat Pod
This new kitty house is built from a repurposed 48-quart cooler, rendering it super-warm in cold temperatures. It has a pillow at the top, a heating pad, and two doors.
Key Characteristics:
- 21″ X 12″ X 11″ dimensions
- Strong structure with built-in insulation
- 2 doors which swing open and shut
- 25-watt heating pad
- Top pillow created is coated with weather-resistant fabric
