Best Outdoor Cat House

Best Outdoor Cat House
Does Felix really need the best outdoor cat house? Yup! If you are a cat parent, then you must have seen your kitty stalk and attack small animals in the vicinity and proudly present it to you as a trophy. Domesticated felines love to hunt and roam the great outdoors, much like their big, wild cousins.

So instead of letting your cat peer through the window gloomily, have it nurture its natural curiosity and wanderlust.

The best outdoor cat house would prove invaluable, especially if you’ve got yourself an adventurous kitty who sometimes refuses to come home. It gives you the peace of mind knowing that Felix has a cozy place to take refuge from the elements and large predators.

You may also have a tiny community of strays who hang out by your house, enjoying little blessings from you.

Anyway, here is a list of some fantastic outdoor dwellings you can get for your feline companion(s).

Model
Name
Size
Materials Used
Insulation
Escape Door
Price

27.5 x 20 x 17.5 in
Cedarwood
Weatherproof
Check Price


20 x 20 x 21 in
Cedar
Water-resistant
Check Price


22 x 18 x 17 in
600-denier nylon
Water-resistant
Check Price


30 x 22 x 29 in
Cedarwood
Weatherproof
Check Price


35 x 20.5 x 20 in
Heavy-duty fabric
Weatherproof
Check Price

16.5 x 20 x 17 in
Cedarwood
Weatherproof
Check Price


21.5 x 15.5 x 26.5 in
600-denier nylon
Water-resistant
Check Price


17 x 13 x 17 in
Heavy-duty fabric
Weatherproof
Check Price


15 x 13 x 21.5 in
600 Denier polyester exterior
Check Price


24 x 24 x 23 in
Eco-friendly materials
Weatherproof
Check Price

10 of the Best Outdoor Cat Houses

1.Petsfit Weatherproof Outdoor Cat Condo with Stairs

Petsfit Weatherproof Outdoor Cat Condo with Stairs

Inner dimensions: 27. 5 x 17. 5 x 20 inches
Colors available: grey, red wine

If you are looking for a well-built cat house that will also bring charm to your porch, then you can’t go wrong with the Petsfit Weatherproof Outdoor Cat Condo with Stairs. Made with cedarwood, it offers long-lasting functionality and requires less maintenance.

One cannot argue how cute this shelter is! The house comes with a flower box, so you can add in some plants to make it even more adorable. Having a porch is a fabulous idea, too, especially for cats who love to lounge the day away.

Although the construction seems complex, it was a breeze for us to build. The house includes a user-friendly manual. Likewise, there was no problem with any of the components that came along with it.

The thing we love the most about this kitty bungalow is its raised floor. Since the bottom doesn’t sit on the ground, it won’t get damp or become cold.

There is also an eave above the entrance to prevent the ingress of water. The house also features an asphalt-covered roof to provide ample weather-resistance.

But because wood is porous, we suggest you varnish the house to keep it in a good state for long.

Do note that the cottage isn’t waterproof. So, it is best to keep it at least partially covered during the rainy season.

Another gripe we have is that it isn’t insulated. Nor is the cottage waterproof. But at least the size is excellent for stuffing straw to keep your whiskered pals nice and toasty in the winter. Adding to that, you can put a cord through the holes on the floor should you decide to place a heating pad.

Furthermore, we like that there is a rear escape door; your cat can quickly escape during a predator attack.

PROS:
  • Made of cedarwood
  • Features an elevated platform to prevent flooding
  • The flower box and porch add functionality and style
  • Has a door eave and an asphalt-covered roof to provide weather-resistance
  • Painted with non-toxic, water-based paint
  • Cats feel safer knowing there is an escape route
  • Spacious enough to contain heaps of straw or a heating/cooling pad
  • Ideal for two to three medium-sized felines
CONS:
  • The entrance doesn’t have a flap
  • The house lacks insulation

2.Petsfit Outdoor Triangle Cat House with Escape Door for All Cats

Petsfit Outdoor Triangle Cat House with Escape Door for All Cats

Inner dimensions: 18 x 17 inches
Colors available: green, light gray, red wine, natural (no paint)

Would it be possible to find a cute house that is also just as sturdy as it looks? Enter the Petsfit Weatherproof Outdoor Cat Shelter.

This shelter is made of cedar, a lightweight wood valued for its high-natural resistance against decay.

Aside from its simple design, there are pre-designed connectors that support the walls as you screw them together. The panels also have pre-drilled holes for the screws. The only thing we did extra was to add glue to reinforce them.

Moreover, the roof of the house has a layer of asphalt to make it water-resistant. There is also a thick plastic lining to the underside of the roof, making it slightly waterproof.

Still, we suggest you caulk the top of the house where the frame joins together to ensure there are no leaks when it rains heavily.

On the flip side, this shelter lacks insulation, but there are holes on the base should you wish to add an electric heating pad in the winter. The house can also accommodate a cooling pad in the summer.

The biggest downside is that the shelter sits flat on the ground despite the slats. You need to add some groundwork to lift the house and prevent it from sitting in water.

Nevertheless, we like that the house has a front and back entry. You can reach your little mouser from both sides when feeding. The entrance may look narrow, but even a fat pussycat won’t have trouble getting in or out.

PROS:
  • Made of cedarwood
  • Has a door eave and an asphalt-layered roof to provide weather-resistance
  • Painted with non-toxic, water-based paint
  • The panels have pre-drilled holes for quick assembly
  • Comes with a rear escape door that swings open
  • Spacious enough to contain a heating/cooling pad
  • Suitable for two medium-sized cats
CONS:
  • The entrance doesn’t have a flap
  • The house lacks insulation, and its bottom sits flat on the ground

3.K&H Pet Products Original Outdoor Kitty House (Heated Version)

K&H Pet Products  Original Outdoor Kitty House

Inner dimensions: 13 x 16.5 x 16 inches
Print: Barn, Cottage, Log Cabin

The K&H Pet Products Original Outdoor Kitty House is all the rage among cat owners right now. With almost 5 000 reviews, you should be curious to try it out! This product is available in an unheated and heated version. By far, this product is the easiest to set up.

The house is made of 600-denier nylon with a vinyl backing, which is a popular fabric in the bag industry known for its strength and durability.

What we like most is that the roof and walls are insulated. Regardless, we suggest you choose the heated option, especially if you live in a frigid area or have a senior cat.

The heated cat house includes a mat, which is controlled by a thermostat — the mat kicks in and out between 0 to 20 watts on average of 20 minutes. Hence, the electric consumption is barely existent.

Also, the heating element has been tested and certified by MET Labs to exceed electrical safety standards.

I should warn that the power cord is short, and the manufacturer stated that you couldn’t use an extension cord. Hence, you will have to place the house near an outlet if you are to use the heating pad.

And despite its water-resistant materials, you have to remember to put the house in a covered space, such as the patio or barn. The roof isn’t too strong to hold heavy rainfall or snow. Also, water dripping from the ceiling could soak through the bottom of the house.

Likewise, you may want to consider placing the house on an elevated platform. Another thing you should consider is that strong winds could blow the house easily because of how lightweight it is.

PROS:
  • Made of water-resistant 600-Denier nylon fabric with vinyl backing
  • The heated version includes a 20-watt Lectro-Soft heating pad
  • The roof and walls are insulated
  • Comes with a front and a back door with removable flaps
  • Portable and easy to assemble
  • Ideal for two medium-sized felines
  • Energy-efficient and MET-listed for safety
CONS:
  • The power cord is too short
  • Not intended to be used in the open space
  • Strong winds could easily blow away the house when unoccupied

4.Petsfit Outdoor Cat House with Escape Door and Stairs

Petsfit Outdoor Cat House with Escape Door and Stairs

Dimensions: 30 x 22 x 29 inches
Color: grey, red wine

The Petsfit Outdoor Cat House with Escape Door and Stairs is among the cutest outdoor cat houses for multiple cats. This luxurious kitty condo can comfortably house two kitties on the first floor and another on the lounging patio.

This beautiful cat casa comes in two variants — there can either be a regular ladder or a scratching board joining the bottom floor to the second story. In my opinion, the sisal scratcher would be the better option, as it promotes healthy grooming in cats.

Don’t let the bells and whistles scare you away, though. The shelter is a cinch to assemble, as you only need to lock the panels altogether using a screwdriver and the provided screws.

But a word of advice — use a rubber mallet to shift the pieces firmly in place.

The fact that the house is elevated is brilliant, as it keeps it clear of water and creepy crawlies on the ground. Also, we like that the balcony is fenced to give the cat a little bit of privacy and space.

While the front entry has an eave to keep the rain at bay, the rear has a swingable door to give cats an escape route in case of a predator attack.

Moreover, the house is made of cedarwood, making it durable and resistant to decay. There is an asphalt layer to the roof as well, which adds ample weather-resistance to the house.

But in terms of insulation, you may need to make some adjustments, such as adding straw or a heated bed to keep your cats warm during the cold season.

PROS:
  • Made of cedarwood
  • Has a door eave and an asphalt-coated roof to provide weather-resistance
  • The house is raised off the ground to prevent flooding
  • Painted with non-toxic, water-based paint
  • The panels have pre-drilled holes for quick assembly
  • Comes with a swingable rear escape door
  • Spacious enough for two to three medium-sized cats
CONS:
  • The entrance doesn’t have a flap
  • The house lacks insulation

5.K&H Pet Products Outdoor Multi-Kitty A-Frame House (Heated Version)

K&H Pet Products Outdoor Multi-Kitty A-Frame House

Inner dimensions: 24 x 19 x 18 inches
Color: chocolate brown

If you want to provide shelter to a small group of cats, the K&H Pet Products Outdoor Multi-Kitty A-Frame House would be a great pick.

As you can see, the house resembles a tent, which is befitting for felines as they tend to hate the “cave feeling” that canines usually like. Nonetheless, the home is spacious enough to accommodate two to three medium-sized cats.

You should opt for the heated version of this house if you want the convenience of a heater. After all, it only costs a few bucks more.

The 40-watt heating pad is thermostatically controlled, which means it only activates when your cat lies on top of it. Therefore, you can plug the heater 24/7 without risking an electrical failure or sending your energy bill sky-high. The only problem is the short power cord.

As for its build, it is made of a heavy-duty fabric that the manufacturer claims to be waterproof. Unfortunately, the house is only water-resistant and would soak up water if it rains heavily. Snow build-up could also cause the roof to collapse.

But anyway, we like that the house is a breeze to assemble and portable to boot. The house has a front and back door, both of which have removable plastic flaps to keep the cold wind out.

Overall, we recommend this product as an excellent outdoor cat shelter for winter. With its energy-efficient heating pad, your whiskered friends will be warm and comfortable during the unforgiving winter. Just remember to place it in a covered space, like a shed, barn, or balcony.
PROS:
  • The heated version includes a 40-watt Lectro-Soft heating pad
  • Energy-efficient and MET-listed for safety
  • Comes with a front and an escape door
  • Each door has a removable plastic flap
  • Portable and hassle-free to assemble
  • Ideal for two to three medium-sized felines
CONS:
  • The exterior isn’t waterproof
  • The power cord is too short
  • Not intended to be used in the open space
  • Strong winds could easily blow away the house when unoccupied

6.ROCKEVER Wooden Cat House

ROCKEVER Wooden Cat House

Inner dimensions: 16.5 x 20 x 17 inches
Color: grey, blue, pink, autumn blonde, natural (no paint)

Do you have a feral cat nearby whom you wish to give a free bed and board? The ROCKEVER Wooden Cat House would be an excellent choice.

This little cabin may look modest, but it is solid enough to last you a few winters. Considering the dimensions, it can fit one medium-sized cat or two small ones.

The house has one door, which opens as a slope.

While the design seems like an excellent idea, it would have been nice to have a plastic flap to prevent chill winds from getting inside. You can close the door using the heart lock, but would you really do that to a cat?

Nonetheless, this home deserves a huge bonus point for its slanted asphalt roof and elevated bottom. You can even adjust the height of the columns that support the cabin, ensuring it stands away from puddles.

The cabin comes with all the necessary parts included. The manufacturer even thoughtfully included a blanket. But to get it correctly assembled, you will need a screwdriver, pliers, and a pair of extra hands.

Furthermore, this shelter is also efficient for a mama cat and its litter. There are hinges on the roof to make the house accessible for feeding and cleaning.

PROS:
  • Made of cedarwood
  • The slanted asphalt roof prevents rainfall from accumulating
  • Has an elevated bottom
  • Fits one to two cats or a lactating cat and its litter
  • The door/slope provides ease of access to kittens
  • You can reach onto your pets via the roof
CONS:
  • Not the easiest cat house to assemble
  • The door doesn’t come with a plastic flap
  • The house lacks insulation

7.K&H Pet Products Extra-Wide Outdoor Kitty House (Heated Version)

K&H Pet Products Extra-Wide Outdoor Kitty House

Inner dimensions: 17 x 22 x 14 inches
Color: olive

The K&H Pet Products Extra-Wide Outdoor Kitty House has all the incredible features as the original product.

As the name hints, it is wider to accommodate three or more cats, depending on their breed.

The house is a cinch to assemble. All you gotta do is fold it open and attach the wall panels using the “hook and loop” fasteners.

The roof attaches to the walls using zippers and Velcro. While not indestructible, its 600-Denier construction makes it weather-resistant and durable enough to last for several seasons.

Moreover, the house comes with a 20-watt Lectro-Soft heating pad, which also acts as insulation since it covers all the seams of the floor.

There are also two entrances/exits to the house complete with detachable plastic flaps to help hold in the warmth.

PROS:
  • Wider than the original version to accommodate more cats
  • Comes with a 20-watt Lectro-Soft heating pad
  • Has two entrances/exits
  • Each door has a removable plastic flap
  • Portable and hassle-free to assemble
  • Ideal for three medium-sized felines or more
  • Energy-efficient and MET-listed for safety
CONS:
  • The exterior isn’t waterproof
  • Not intended to be used in the open space
  • Could get blown away by strong winds
  • The power cord is too short

8.PETYELLA Outdoor Cat House

PETYELLA Outdoor Cat House

Dimensions: 17 x 13 x 17 inches
Print: American classic, cottage charm, modern cabin

This stylish cat house by PETYELLA is ideal for both indoor and outdoor use.

All the pieces assemble with Velcro; there is no need for hammering, screwing, and whatnot. Because it is lightweight, portable, and a cinch to put together, it is perfect for pet owners on the go.

When the weather turns colder at night, your kitty will love the benefits of having a heated home. The house includes a 4-meter extension cord and a plug-in timer for the heating pad.

We like that the power cable is chew-resistant for the first few feet to promote safety. The bed has a washable cover, too.

We can’t say it is a rock-solid cat house, though. The structure feels like cardboard added with soft padding and a thin waterproof exterior. Despite that, the fabric seems abrasion-resistant.

Nevertheless, any cat would appreciate the cozy protection offered by this little shelter.

The house has two openings, both of which you can install plastic flaps to keep the wind out and still allow your cat to see out.

PROS:
  • Comes with a heating pad with a metal-covered power cord
  • Includes a 4-meter extension cord and a plug-in timer to help save electricity
  • Fabric walls are scratch-resistant
  • Portable and easy to assemble
  • The bed comes with a zippered cover
  • Both openings have plastic flaps
CONS:
  • The structure is prone to collapse
  • Not intended to be used in the open space

9.K&H Pet Products Thermo-Kitty Shelter

K&H Pet Products Thermo-Kitty Shelter

Inner dimensions: 13 x 19 x 11 inches
Color: grey, tan

Just like any K&H Pet Products, the Thermo-Kitty Shelter features a 600-Denier construction and comes with a heating element.

This model uses a 25-watt K&H heating pad, and there is a grommet hole for the power cable to go through at the back.

A 25-watt K&H heating pad heats only half of the floor. Because of this design, your cat can choose where to position itself. Your kitty can be on or off the bed whenever he wants. The mat is pressure-sensitive; it only turns on when your cat decides to lay on top.

The house has a one-piece structure that takes only a few seconds to zip it closed.

Likewise, it has a single door, which is a good idea to preserve warmth. The flap to the door is slightly weighted to keep it down. But you might consider a different model with an alternative entrance/exit if you live in an area with potential predators.

The dimensions and door size are perfect for one cat or two sibling kittens.

With this house, your cat will happily curl in a ball or relax as he watches the world go by inside his new home.
PROS:
  • Comes with a 25-watt heating pad
  • The entrance has a removable plastic flap
  • Portable and hassle-free to assemble
  • Energy-efficient and MET-listed for safety
CONS:
  • Doesn’t have an escape door
  • Not intended to be used in the open space
  • Could get blown away by strong winds when unoccupied
  • The power cord is too short

10.Kitty Tube Gen 3 The Outdoor Insulated Cat House

Kitty Tube Gen 3 The Outdoor Insulated Cat House

Dimensions: 24 x 24 x 23 inches
Color: black

Nope, we aren’t mistaken. This product is not a water tank. Nor is it an oversized rice cooker or an oven. This one right here is the Kitty Tube Gen 3, a waterproof outdoor cat house.

The shelter is proudly made in the USA using eco-friendly materials.

As you can see in the photo, the house has one entrance only. We know that without an emergency exit, a cat can be trapped inside with no way to run in case of a predator attack. But because of the size of the door, which measures 5 x 6 inches, I doubt large predators can get inside. Likewise, the shelter is sturdy enough to withstand abuse from an angry attacker. The manufacturer insists that its product will not chip or crack.

Moreover, this unique cat house has insulated walls to prevent chilly winds from entering and help preserve the warmth.

The house can fit up to three medium-sized cats or a mama cat and its kittens.

The best thing we find about this shelter is that the top lifts off quickly, so you can inspect and clean inside.
PROS:
  • Made of recyclable materials
  • The door is narrow enough to prevent predators
  • The shell doesn’t chip or crack
  • Comes with built-in handles, which you can open to promote ventilation
  • Can provide a secure home up to three cats
  • Has a removable top for easy cleaning
  • Spacious enough to contain a heating bed
  • Suitable for a small group of cats
CONS:
  • Expensive

How to Find the Best Outdoor Cat House

Before you spend your hard-earned money, it pays to check out our buying guide first. Doing so will give you a better product insight, so you can be confident about your purchase.

Key Factors to Consider

Size and Capacity

Size and Capacity
Felines tend to feel safer and cozier in small accommodations, but that doesn’t mean it’s okay to limit your pet’s mobility.

You need to make sure that el gato will fit comfortably in his new casa. The house should be roomy enough for your cat to stand up, stretch, and turn in a 360-degree circle.

If you have two or more cats, then choose the one that is spacious enough to share. But bear in mind that the larger the house, the more difficult it is to heat up using your cat’s body heat and it may even attract other animals.

Design and Materials Used

Design and Materials
A majority of the outdoor cat houses in the market aren’t waterproof despite claims from the manufacturer.

Hence, it is crucial to check what materials make up a particular product and think about where you want to put your cat’s home.

If you wish to place a haven for strays in your backyard, you may want to choose an option made of wood with an asphalt roof to boot. This type of house offers better protection against the scorching sun and can withstand a downpour without getting soaked. Also, a wooden house is heavy enough not to get blown away by the wind.

Regardless, we advise you to cover the house with a tarp during the wet season to lengthen the duration of the product. You should also check for the elevation of the house, especially if you choose to place it outside. Wooden or not, it will be flooded with water when it rains heavily.

If you are thinking of placing the house on a covered area, such as a porch or veranda, a fabric-crafted option may be more suitable.

Insulation

Insulation
Insulation is a critical feature for helping outdoor cats survive, especially during the coldest season of the year.

A cat house with a heating pad may be the best option for you if you have a senior cat or your area receives lots of snow.

However, you need to check how much energy the heating element consumes to prevent your energy bills from going through the roof.

Assembly and Ease Cleaning

I personally don’t mind spending an hour or two building my cat’s house as long as it is properly constructed. But because we need to clean our pet’s abode from time to time, it is best to opt for a product that is easy to clean and put back together.

Better yet, choose a product that has a detachable roof or floor to speed up cleaning. If the shelter includes a cushion, make sure that it has a washable cover.

Double Doors

We don’t often realize that many animals pose a risk to outdoor cats. That is why it is helps to have a rear door that can only be opened from the inside.

Many cats feel safer and more comfortable knowing they have an escape route in case of a predator attack. Without an escape route, your kitty’s house could become a death trap rather than a safe haven.

Nonetheless, few single-door cat houses has been designed to keep predators out.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an outdoor cat house?

As the name hints, it is a dwelling intended to be placed outside your home — it could be somewhere in the open air or in a covered area. You will find modest cabins, practical enclosures with heating, and fancy wooden cottages fit for feline princesses. However, cat owners aren’t the only ones who should consider getting an outdoor cat house. Installing outdoor cat houses in your backyard is a blessing to strays, abandoned ones, and unsocialized ferals.

How can I keep outdoor cats warm in winter?

If your cat refuses to enter your house despite sub-zero temperatures, then you should do the following to ensure the stubborn little beast can live through the harsh winter:
Buy an outdoor cat house. If it comes with a heating pad, the better. If not, insulate the house with straw.
  • Use a heated bowl for your cat’s water and food.
  • Attach plastic flaps to the doors to help repel snow.
  • Clear out the snow in front of your cat’s house every day.

How long will an outdoor cat live?

Outdoor kitties are a hearty bunch, but unfortunately, they have shorter lives. A healthy indoor cat can reach a ripe old age of 15 years or more; whereas, an outdoor cat may live up to five years on average. Diseases, chemical exposure, physical trauma, and parasites are just a few of the many factors that reduce the lifespan of an outdoor cat.

How cold can outdoor cats tolerate?

Cats are well-adapted for cold weather, especially younger ones. However, that doesn’t mean a cat will not search for a cozy place to hunker down. Even the fluffiest cat is still susceptible to frostbite and hypothermia. If the temperature outside is too cold for you, then it is too cold for your cat to be out for long periods.

Are heated cat houses safe?

Heated cat houses are safe, as they use a very low wattage. When in doubt, choose a product that is MET-listed for safety.

Will my cat freeze to death outside?

If you see your cat covered in thick chunks of ice, scoop her up and take her immediately to the vet. If severe hypothermia kicks in, causing your pet’s temperature to fall from 38.9°C to 16°C, then it would surely die.

Takeaway

Even if your cat enjoys the indoor bliss, it is nice to have an outdoor cat house installed at the patio or terrace where he could lounge the day away.

But if you truly have a spunky outdoor cat, then you really should get one ASAP. However, cat owners aren’t the only ones who should consider getting an outdoor cat house.

Placing shelters in your backyard is a blessing to strays, abandoned ones, and unsocialized ferals as well.

So, which one is your pick?

Petsfit Weatherproof Outdoor Cat Condo with StairsAlthough we cherry-picked these ten cat houses, we rated the Petsfit Weatherproof Outdoor Cat Condo with Stairs as the best outdoor cat shelter in terms of durability and design.

  • We like that the house is made of cedarwood; hence, the shelter won’t warp easily or succumb to decay and insect attacks.
  • Whether it is raining cats and dogs, you will be confident that your pet will stay dry and comfortable inside its home.
  • Also, the main compartment is big enough to accommodate two to three cats. But if you use it for one cat, then you could fit in a food bowl and a small litter pan.

K&H Pet Products Original Outdoor Kitty HouseAnd if we have to pick a runner-up, then that would be the K&H Pet Products Original Outdoor Kitty House. Cats would surely love the warmth and protection offered by this product. And because it is MET-listed, I can leave the house at peace knowing that my pet is safe and my house won’t burn down when I get back.

Hopefully, you can make an informed decision from the information we shared. Good luck!

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