Many cats love spending time enjoying the sunshine outside, but they also love spending time outside at night. If your cat enjoys spending more time outside than in, then investing in an outdoor cat house is a great idea. This gives them somewhere warm and cozy to shelter when the weather gets bad, or somewhere to take a nap in between adventures.
We reviewed dozens of outdoor cat houses to identify the best of the best. We looked at features including the materials each house was made of, and how easy they were to assemble. We also considered whether the house was waterproof, insulated, or had any extras such as escape hatches or space for multiple cats.
Our Top Pick from all the outdoor cat houses we reviewed is the Petsfit Outdoor Triangle Cat House. This stood out as a clear winner thanks to its impressive range of features. These include two doors, one with an overhang and another with a flap. The thick cedar walls help keep your cat warm, while the pre-drilled holes make this cat house easy to install.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Outdoor Cat Houses
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Petsfit Outdoor Triangle Cat House | 4.6 |
| Best Insulated Outdoor Cat House | Kitty tube The Outdoor Insulated Cat House | 4.6 |
| Best Budget Outdoor Cat House | Pet Peppy Outdoor Cat House | 4.3 |
| Best 2 Story Outdoor Cat House | Petsfit 2 Story Weatherproof Outdoor Kitty Cat House | 4.0 |
| Best Weatherproof Outdoor Cat House | ecoFLEX Albany Outdoor Cat House | 4.6 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at time of publication and can change
Best Outdoor Cat House Overall: Petsfit Outdoor Triangle Cat House
Our Top Pick, the Petsfit Outdoor Triangle Cat House is an excellent choice for many reasons. The sturdy cedar wood panels are 12m thich, and have been weatherproofed so your cat will be cozy in all conditions. The overhang on the front door means your cat can stay warm while still enjoying the view. The rear escape door features a clear, ventilated panel.
Available in 3 colors, as well as an unstained version which can be left plain, or painted to suit your existing outdoor decor. The floor panels are easy to lift up for cleaning, and are designed to allow ventilation. Once some bedding is placed inside, your cat will be warm and dry. Reviewers love how easy this A-frame style cat house is to install, as well as the fact that their cats love it!
Petsfit Outdoor Triangle Cat House Key Features:
- Suitable for cats under 15 pounds
- Two doors
- Made from weatherproof cedar wood
Best Insulated Outdoor Cat House: Kitty Tube The Outdoor Insulated Cat House
As the best insulated outdoor cat house we suggest the Kitty Tube The Outdoor Insulated Cat House. Made from recycled materials, the shell of this house is guaranteed to never fade, crack, or chip. The roof, walls, and floor are all covered with a high-quality insulation designed to keep your cat warm during the winter, and cool during the summer.
The unique door features a predator-proof design, keeping your cat safe. The large design means up to 3 cats can snuggle into this house at the same time. This kit also includes a removable flap door, which you can add on in winter to help retain even more heat. The vent cap on the lid can be opened or closed, as can the handles on the sides.
Kitty Tube The Outdoor Insulated Cat House Key Features:
- Includes washable pet bed
- Built-in lifting handles
- Fits up to 3 cats
Best Budget Outdoor Cat House: Pet Peppy Outdoor Cat House
Our recommendation for the best budget choice goes to the Pet Peppy Outdoor Cat House. Coming in at under $40, this cat house combines value for money with some great features. The strong exterior is made from 600 denier canvas, so it’s durable and lightweight as well as slightly waterproof.
Inside there’s a self-heating mat with a special reflective insert. This bounces back your cat’s body heat, keeping them cozy. One door is left open, and the other has a transparent flap so your cat can see out, but stay protected from the worst of the weather. The roof has a Velcro fastening which can easily be opened on one side for cleaning.
Pet Peppy Outdoor Cat House Key Features:
- Assembles in seconds
- Two doors
- Washable covers
Best 2 Story Outdoor Cat House: Petsfit 2 Story Weatherproof Outdoor Kitty Cat House
As the best 2 story outdoor cat house we selected the Petsfit 2 Story Weatherproof Outdoor Kitty Cat House. The asphalt roof protects your cats from snow and rain, while the multiple perches mean your cat can also enjoy sitting in an elevated spot and watching the world go by.
The hinged roof can be opened for easy cleaning, and once inside your cat can access both levels easily. The multiple doors mean they always have a range of exit points to choose from, and they can also enjoy looking out from the acrylic window.
Petsfit 2 Story Weatherproof Outdoor Kitty Cat House Key Features:
- Fits 2 – 3 cats
- Easy assembly
- 2 colors available
Best Weatherproof Outdoor Cat House: ecoFLEX Albany Outdoor Cat House
If you’re looking for the beat weatherproof outdoor cat house, we recommend the ecoFLEX Albany Outdoor Cat House. Constructed from a rot, bug, and weatherproof ecoFLEX material, this durable and strong outdoor cat house is designed for all-year use.
The manufacturers have designed this to suit feral and domestic cats, so it can be placed in exposed areas and will never fade, warp, crack, or rot. The raised design also helps to keep your cats warm by elevating the floor of the shelter off the ground. This is also exceptionally easy to clean, and can simply be rinsed with a cloth, or hosed down.
ecoFLEX Albany Outdoor Cat House Key Features:
- Two doors
- Tool-free assembly
- 10 year warranty
Who Should Buy an Outdoor Cat House
If you have a cat, chances are they’ll love an outdoor cat house. Many cats love to curl up in a safe space to have their nap, and a cozy house provides them with a sense of security. If your cat spends most of their time outside, it can be harder for them to find somewhere they feel safe enough to sleep, so treating them to an outdoor cat house is a great solution. It also protects them from the elements, so if it’s cold or raining outside, they have somewhere safe, dry, and warm to shelter. You could also add a cat window perch to give them another option of somewhere safe to sleep that’s elevated off the ground.
You could also consider asking your local cat shelter if they need donations of cat houses. Many of these charities also help local feral cats, by providing them with food and shelter.
Important Features to Consider
An outdoor cat house should have a few important features. Here’s what to consider when selecting the best outdoor cat house for your furry friend:
- Materials. Outdoor cat houses come in a wide range of materials, including wood, plastic, and fabric. If you plan to put your cat house somewhere partially sheltered from the elements like a veranda, then all materials will be equally suitable. But if it will be fully exposed, make sure you choose a solid house made from hard wearing wood or plastic.
- Weatherproofing. This feature links in with the material your cat house is made from. Some are designed to be fully weatherproof, meaning your cat will be protected from the elements at all times. Other cat houses won’t be fully waterproof, so depending on where you plan to put the cat house, this is an essential feature.
- Escape hatch. Many outdoor cat houses come equipped with two doors. This is so that your cat can escape if a predator, or another cat they don’t get on with, tries to enter the cat house.
- Size. How many cats do you have? And do they like to sleep together? Are they small or large breeds? If you know your cats like to sleep snuggled up, choose a cat house that can accommodate them all. Equally, if they like to sleep alone, you might need to invest in more than one cat house to keep them all happy! Some outdoor cat houses have 2 levels, while others are big enough to accommodate more than one cat, or large breed cats lie Maine Coons.
- How to clean. You’ll want to clean your outdoor cat house occasionally, and change your cat’s bedding. Some cat houses are easy to take apart, so you can give them a deep clean without too much trouble. Others will be harder to clean, so that’s something to bear in mind.
- Insulation. If you live somewhere with very cold winters, it’s best to select a cat house with a good level of insulation. You can also buy heating pads to add extra warmth.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I keep outdoor cats warm in the winter?
Investing in an outdoor cat house is a great start! Cat houses provide a sheltered spot for your cat to stay warm, and their body heat will soon warm up the air in the cat house. If you live in a very cold area, select an insulated house, and consider adding a heating pad for more warmth. Providing some warm bedding within the cat house will also help.
Make sure your outdoor cats always have access to fresh food and water everyday too, so they’re well hydrated and have enough body fat to help keep them warm.
Should an outdoor cat house have two doors?
Some cats definitely prefer an outdoor cat house with two doors. The extra door gives them an escape route if a predator like a coyote tries to access the house. If you have multiple cats who want to use the same house, an extra door also gives one of the cats an option to escape. Some outdoor cat houses are designed with a single door which is intended to be predator proof. Take a good look at any outdoor cat houses you’re interested in and see which you think will suit your cat best.
How cold can outdoor cats tolerate?
The answer to this question partly depends on the cat in question. Factors such as thickness of fur, age, and body weight can all play a part. So can whether or not our cat is acclimated to spending time outside when it’s cold. Cats used to spending time outdoors can usually tolerate temperatures down to 32F, or freezing. Below this, they’ll definitely need either a well insulated shelter with a heating pad, or to come inside.
Young and old cats, or those that spend more time inside, will have a lower tolerance for cold. For these guys, anything below 45F will quickly become uncomfortable. If in doubt, it’s always best to err on the side of caution. Providing a warm a dry cat house, as well as the option to come inside if they choose, means your cat won’t be at risk of developing hypothermia when those temperatures drop.
What should I put in my outdoor cat house?
This depends on what sort of cat it’s for, and where you’re going to place the cat house. For domestic cats, with a cat house which is checked regularly, you can use a fleece blanket or cat bed. Bear in mind if it rains and the air is very damp, this bedding will become wet and possibly moldy. It’s worth checking the bedding in your cat house at least once a week, and changing it if necessary.
If you live in a very cold area, you might choose to add a waterproof heating mat designed for outdoor use. Again, check this regularly.
For an outdoor cat house which is placed further away from your home, out in the elements, straw is a better choice of bedding. Cats can burrow into this and make a cozy nest. The straw will repel water to a certain degree, and keep cats warmer than a damp bed.
Other Outdoor Cat Houses We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other outdoor cat houses. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best outdoor cat houses list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option for your cat. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
- Insulated Outdoor Cat Houses
- Weatherproof Outdoor Cat Houses
- 2 Story Outdoor Cat Houses
- Heated Outdoor Cat Houses
Insulated Outdoor Cat Houses
Cozy Cat Furniture Insulated Outdoor Cat House
This sturdy raised cat house is made from cedar wood lined with 1/2″ thick thermal-ply insulation to keep your cat cozy all year round.
Key Features:
- Lounging platform at front
- Two doors
- Easy to assemble
Cost: $196
Furhome Collective Insulated Outdoor Cat House
The insulated, waterproof walls and roof of this house keep your cat feeling cozy. The front and back doors are both covered with PVC to help retain your cat’s body heat inside the house.
Key Features:
- Elevated waterproof base
- Includes heating pad
- Easy to assemble
Cost: $70
K&H A-Frame Outdoor Kitty House
This cozy A-frame insulated outdoor cat house is perfect for covered areas such as porches, barns, or garages.
Key Features:
- Warm into subzero temperatures
- Two doors
- Removable heating pad
Cost: $74
K&H Extra-Wide Outdoor Cat House
Available in heated or unheated versions, the water resistant and insulated construction of this extra-wide outdoor cat house is perfect for multiple cats.
Key Features:
- Two doors
- Tool-free assembly
- One year warranty
Cost: $60
This cozy insulated cat house features a cute design on the waterproof fabric outer. The roof lifts off for easy cleaning.
Key Features:
- Two doors
- Includes heated pad
- Fast tool-free assembly
Weatherproof Outdoor Cat Houses
The all-plastic construction of this weatherproof cat house means it’s easy to clean and provides shelter in all weather conditions.
Key Features:
- Air ventilation at rear
- Lift-off lid
- Door overhang to divert rain
Cost: $34
Kitty Tube Double Insulated Outdoor Cat House
This is the double insulated version of the Kitty Tube featured in our Top 5. Perfect for colder winter climates, this cozy cat house will keep your outdoor cat warm and dry in all winter conditions.
Key Features:
- Includes washable bed
- Made in USA
- Door awning and removable flap
Cost: $210
Petsfit Weatherproof Outdoor Cat House
If your outdoor cats love to play, then this multi-level cat house will keep them entertained for hours. It has enough space for up to 5 cats to enjoy at the same time!
Key Features:
- Weatherproof roof and solid wood construction
- Multiple doors
- Easy assembly
Cost: $220
Petmate Kitty Cat Condo Outdoor Cat House
The wide hood on this igloo style outdoor cat house is designed to help divert rain and now, keeping the interior warm and dry.
Key Features:
- Easy to clean
- Carpeted base
- Fits up to 2 cats
Cost: $76
The wide overhanging asphalt roof on this cat house protects the open top level, which your cat can access using the cute staircase.
Key Features:
- Easy to clean
- Fast assembly
- One door
2 Story Outdoor Cat Houses
This cottage-style outdoor cat house includes 2 levels, and is raised off the ground to protect your cat from wet ground conditions.
Key Features:
- Made from fir wood
- Multiple doors
- Roof lifts for easy cleaning
Cost: $130
The solid wood construction of this cat house includes an open veranda on the upper level, for your cat to enjoy sunbathing in good weather.
Key Features:
- One year warranty
- Fits up to 3 cats
- Weatherproof construction
Cost: $130
Perfect for multiple cats, this large wooden cat house includes multiple doors as well as 2 inside levels for your cats to shelter in.
Key Features:
- 2 colors available
- 66 pound weight limit
- Made from treated fir wood
Cost: $150
This luxury 2 level cat house includes multiple doors, plus cute acrylic windows so your cat can watch the world go by from their warm shelter.
Key Features:
- Fits up to 3 cats
- Weatherproof asphalt roof
- Available in 3 colors
Cost: $150
This outdoor cat house features exterior basking platforms, so your cat cat enjoy the sun from an elevated position.
Key Features:
- Four doors
- Includes window
- Easy to clean
Heated Outdoor Cat Houses
Extreme Consumer Products Heated Outdoor Cat House
This heated outdoor cat house is extremely easy to assemble – simply fold up the sides and secure with the Velcro bindings, before zipping on the roof!
Key Features:
- Includes heating pad
- Easy to clean
- Two doors
Cost: $40
K&H Pet Products Birchwood Manor Outdoor Kitty Home
This cozy outdoor cat house is made from UV protected birchwood which can be painted your choice of color, or left natural.
Key Features:
- Includes heated pad
- Two year warranty
- Two doors with clear flaps
Cost: $85
K&H Pet Products Thermo Kitty Outdoor Shelter
The rugged 600 denier polyester outer of this cat house is machine washable, as is the soft faux sheepskin cover for the heating pad.
Key Features:
- Suitable for large cats
- Available in 2 colors
- Includes heating pad
Cost: $50
K&H Pet Products Outdoor Kitty House Shelter
This cute barn-themed outdoor cat house includes removable cat flaps for each door, as well as including a MET safety tested heating pad with a washable cover.
Key Features:
- Includes heating pad
- Two doors
- Water resistant
Cost: $73
The heating pad included with this cat house allows three settings: standby, heating, and constant temperature. The control box means you can easily toggle between the settings to keep your cat’s house at the perfect temperature.
Key Features:
- Two doors
- Easy assembly
- Washable covers
Cost: $66
