The 10 Best Outdoor Cat Houses for Winter

Providing a warm, dry shelter for outdoor cats during the winter months is important for their well-being and comfort. There are several options for outdoor cat houses that can help protect them from the elements. One option is to purchase a prefabricated outdoor cat house. These are typically made of insulated materials and have a slanted roof to allow snow and rain to easily slide off. Some also have a door flap to help keep out drafts and a removable bottom panel for easy cleaning. Another option is to build a homemade outdoor cat house. This can be as simple as repurposing a large plastic storage container or an old wooden crate, and adding insulation and a door flap to keep out drafts. You can also use a pre-made cat house kit or plan to create a custom design.

Regardless of which option you choose, it’s important to make sure the cat house is large enough for the cat to comfortably stand up, turn around, and lie down in. It should also be located in a sheltered area that is protected from wind and precipitation. Finally, make sure to provide plenty of bedding material, such as straw or a blanket, to help keep the cat warm.

TIP: Use catnip, treats and a heated blanket to attract cats to use the cat house

Ultimately, the best outdoor cat house for your cat will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Consider factors such as size, insulation, and the ability to keep out drafts and moisture when choosing a cat house. Here are some features that you may want to consider when looking for an outdoor cat house:

Look for a cat house that is made of insulating materials, such as foam or fibreglass, to help keep the inside warm. This is especially important for colder climates.

There are several ways to insulate an outdoor cat house to help keep your cat warm during the winter months:

• Use insulation materials: Add insulation materials, such as foam or fibreglass, to the walls, floor, and roof of the cat house. This will help to trap heat inside the house and keep it warm.
• Add a door flap: A door flap can help keep out drafts and provide an extra layer of insulation. You can purchase a door flap separately or make your own using a piece of heavy-duty plastic or canvas.
• Provide bedding material: Add plenty of bedding material, such as straw or a blanket, to the inside of the cat house. This will help to trap heat and keep your cat warm.
• Place a heating pad or self-heating pad inside the cat house: Heating pads and self-heating pads can help to keep the inside of the cat house warm. Just be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure the pad is used safely.
• Insulate the outside of the cat house: If the outside of the cat house is not already insulated, you can add an extra layer of insulation to the walls, roof, and floor. This will help to keep the house warm and protect it from the cold.

By following these steps, you can help to insulate your outdoor cat house and keep your cat warm and comfortable during the winter months.

A slanted roof on a cat house can provide several benefits:

• Allows rain and snow to easily slide off: A slanted roof will allow rain and snow to easily slide off, rather than accumulate on top of the house. This can help to prevent leaks and keep the inside of the house dry.
• Prevents the buildup of ice and snow: In colder climates, a slanted roof can help to prevent the buildup of ice and snow on the house. This can help to protect the house from damage and make it easier for the cat to access the entrance.
• Provides better drainage: A slanted roof will allow water to drain off the house more easily, rather than pooling on top. This can help to prevent water from seeping into the house and causing damage.

Overall, a slanted roof can help to keep the inside of a cat house dry and protected from the elements, making it a more comfortable and safe place for your cat to spend time.

It is generally a good idea for a cat house to have raised flooring or legs for a number of reasons. One reason is that raised flooring or legs can help to keep the interior of the cat house dry and free of moisture. If the floor of the cat house is in direct contact with the ground, it may become damp or wet, which can be uncomfortable for the cat and create an unhealthy living environment. Raised flooring or legs can also help to keep the cat house warmer in colder weather, as it will be off the ground and less exposed to the elements. In addition, raised flooring or legs can help to keep the cat house clean and free of debris, as it will be elevated above the ground and less likely to accumulate dirt or other materials. Finally, raised flooring or legs can help to prevent the cat house from being flooded in areas with heavy rainfall or standing water. Overall, raised flooring or legs can provide a number of benefits for a cat house and are worth considering when building or purchasing one.

A door flap on a cat house can provide several benefits:

• Keeps out drafts: A door flap can help to keep out drafts and provide an extra layer of insulation. This can make the inside of the house more comfortable for your cat, especially in colder weather.
• Protects from the elements: A door flap can also help to protect the inside of the house from wind, rain, and snow. This can help to keep your cat dry and comfortable when spending time inside the house.
• Provides privacy: A door flap can also help to provide privacy for your cat, giving them a place to retreat when they want to be left alone.

An outdoor cat house should have an escape door to allow the cat to escape in case of an emergency, such as a fire or a predator entering the house. If a cat feels trapped within an outside cat house, some cats won’t utilize it. The escape door should be located on the side of the house that is farthest from the main entrance and should be large enough for the cat to pass through easily. It is also a good idea to place the escape door at a lower level so that the cat can easily access it in case of an emergency. An escape door can help ensure the safety and well-being of your outdoor cat, and provide peace of mind for you as the owner.

A removable bottom panel on a cat house can provide several benefits:

• Makes cleaning easier: A removable bottom panel can make it easier to clean the inside of the cat house. You can simply lift the panel out and sweep or scrub the inside as needed.
• Allows for ventilation: A removable bottom panel can also allow for better ventilation inside the cat house, which can be especially important in warmer weather.
• Allows for inspection: A removable bottom panel can also make it easier to inspect the inside of the cat house for any issues, such as pests or damage.

Overall, a removable bottom panel can make a cat house easier to maintain and keep clean, which can help to ensure that it is a comfortable and safe place for your cat to spend time.

The size of a cat house will depend on the size of the cat or cats that will be using it. In general, a cat house should be large enough for the cat to comfortably stand up, turn around, and lie down.

As a rough guide, a cat house that is at least 18 inches (46 cm) wide and 24 inches (61 cm) long should be sufficient for most cats. If you have a large breed or multiple cats, you may want to look for a larger cat house.

It’s also important to consider the height of the cat house. Cats should be able to stand up and move around inside the house without their head or tail touching the ceiling.

In addition to these considerations, it’s a good idea to look for a cat house that is made of sturdy materials and has a solid construction. This will help to ensure that the house is safe and comfortable for your cat to use.

When choosing a location for an outdoor cat house, there are several things to consider to ensure that it provides the best possible shelter:

• Protection from the elements: Look for a location that is sheltered from wind, rain, and snow. A spot under a porch or deck, or in a corner of a garage or shed, can be a good option.
• Sun exposure: Choose a location that gets some sunlight during the day, but not so much that the house becomes overheated. A spot in the shade or partial shade can be ideal.
• Safety: Look for a location that is safe and secure, away from busy roads and other potential hazards.
• Accessibility: Make sure the cat house is easily accessible for the cat, with a clear path to the entrance.

By considering these factors, you can help to ensure that the cat house provides the best possible shelter for your cat.

There are several options for bedding material that you can use in a cat house to keep your cat warm and comfortable:

• Straw: Straw is a popular choice for outdoor cat houses because it is inexpensive and easy to find. It is also biodegradable and absorbent, making it easy to clean up. However, it may not be as warm as other options.
• Blankets: Blankets or towels can provide a softer and more comfortable surface for your cat to lie on. They can also be easily laundered if they become soiled.
• Fleece: Fleece is a synthetic material that is soft and warm, making it a good choice for cold weather. It is also machine washable and easy to care for.
• Dog bedding: Some people use dog bedding, such as foam or a self-warming pad, in their cat houses. These materials can provide a soft and warm surface for your cat to lie on.

Ultimately, the best bedding material for your cat house will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Consider factors such as warmth, comfort, and ease of cleaning when choosing bedding material.

When choosing a cat house, it’s important to look for one that has a sturdy and well-constructed design. Here are a few things to consider:

• Materials: Look for a cat house that is made of durable materials, such as wood, plastic, or metal. These materials are more likely to hold up well to the elements and provide a stable structure.
• Insulation: If the cat house will be used in a cold climate, look for one that is made of insulating materials, such as foam or fiberglass, to help keep the inside warm.
• Roof: The roof of the cat house should be slanted to allow rain and snow to easily slide off and prevent the buildup of ice and snow.
• Door: The door of the cat house should be properly fitting and secure, to keep out drafts and protect against the elements.
• Floor: The floor of the cat house should be solid and sturdy, to provide a stable and comfortable surface for your cat.

By considering these factors, you can help to ensure that the cat house you choose has a sturdy and well-constructed design that will provide a safe and comfortable place for your cat to spend time.

Look for a cat house that is easy to clean, either by having a removable bottom panel or a design that allows for easy access to the inside.

While an attractive design is not essential for the functionality of a cat house, it can be a nice feature for both the cat and the owner. A well-designed cat house can add to the aesthetic appeal of a home or yard and can be a source of pride for the owner.

There are many different outdoor cat houses available, and the best one for your cat will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Here are a few options that may be worth considering:

Outdoor Cat House Comparison Chart

Image	Check on Amazon	Cost	Recommended Occupancy	Insulated	Heated	Waterproof	Slanted Roof	Raised Flooring	Door Flap	Escape Door	Cleaning	Size	Weight
	GDLF Insulated Outdoor Cat House	$169.99	2-3 cats	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	Openable roof	21.5 x 34.5 x 27.2 inches	41 lbs (18.6 kg)
	Outdoor Feral Cat House	$54.99	1 adult cat or 2 kittens	No	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	Openable roof, removable floor	23.6 x 20.9 x 18.3 inches	36.8 lbs (16.7 kg)
	Aivitutin Outdoor Feral Cat House	$139.99	1-2 cats	No	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Openable roof	With Ramp: 35.4″L x 28.86″W x 33.27″H	42 lbs (19 kg)
	Petsfit Large Feral Cat Shelter	$152.99	3 adult cats or mum & kittens	No	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	Yes	Removable floor	29.5″ L X 19″W X 29″H	32.7 lbs (14.8 kg)
	Petsfit Outdoor Cat House	$147.99	1-2 cats	No	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Removable bottom boards	30″ L X 22″W X 29″H	32.7 lbs (14.8 kg)
	The Kitty Tube	$169.99	2-3 adult cats or 4-5 kittens	Yes	No	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	Unique door design that protects cats from predators	Removable lid	24 x 24 x 23 inches	23.6 lbs (10.7 kg)
	KatKabin Premium	$78.85	1 cat	No	No	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	No	Can be taken apart for cleaning	22.83 x 16.93 x 14.57 inches	7.17 lbs (3.25 kg)
	K&H Pet Products Outdoor Heated Kitty House	$79.99	1-2 cats	Yes	Available heated or unheated	No	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	Hook and loop fastening can be easily opened	21.5″ x 26.5″ x 15.5″	6.9 lbs (3.11kg)
	K&H Pet Products Thermo Birchwood Heated Kitty Home	$94.99	1 cat	No	Available heated or unheated	Yes	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	Large front door opening	16″D x 18″W x 15″H	10 lbs (4.5 kg)
	Palram Pets Mona Outdoor Cat House	$79.99	1 cat	No	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Large front and back opening	23.7 x 20.35 x 21.7 inches	8.1 lbs (3.67 kg)

1. GDLF Insulated Outdoor Cat House

Sloped, waterproof linoleum roof

100% insulated

Raised floor

Weatherproof

Door with PVC curtains

100% solid wood

Large enough for 2-3 cats

Weight: 41 lbs (18.6 kg)

$169.99 at Amazon.com

This feral cat shelter comes with cosy foam insulation on every wall, ceiling, and floor. This provides cats with the best protection against cold and heat. The door curtain and an L-shaped offset entrance design significantly lessen the amount of rain and chilly wind that enters the house. The roof opens for easy cleaning. The raised legs help keep the shelter dry. This cat house is probably the best and warmest outdoor cat house for winter, especially if you add your own heating pad to it.

Dimensions

21.5 x 34.5 x 27.2 inches; 41 Pounds

Pros

• Easy to assemble
• Insulated
• Made of solid wood, well built, strong
• Large enough for multiple cats

Cons

• Does not have an escape door
• Customers say the solid wood has a strong smell

2. Outdoor Feral Cat House

Asphalt roof

Suitable for 1 cat or 2 kittens

Raised floor

Weatherproof

PVC door flaps

100% solid wood

Removable floor and roof that opens for easy cleaning

Weight: 36.8 lbs (16.7 kg)

$54.99 at Amazon.com

This cat house is ideal for 1 adult cat or 2 smaller cats. It features an asphalt roof, plastic feet, PVC door flaps and a removable floor. Made from 100% solid wood. It lacks insulation though and doesn’t have an escape door at the back. A good budget option if you are happy to add your own insulation. Straw works well as a natural insulation material.

Dimensions

‎ 23.6 x 20.9 x 18.3 inches; 36.8 Pounds

Pros

• Easy to put together
• Affordable
• Made of solid wood
• Has good features

Cons

• Does not have an escape door
• Has strong odor
• Not insulated

3. Aivitutin Outdoor Feral Cat House

Asphalt roof

Two floors

Escape door

Raised floor

Weatherproof

Removable mid-level floor

Large balcony

Doors with PVC curtains

100% solid wood

Large enough for 1-2 cats

Weight: 42 lbs (19 kg)

$139.99 at Amazon.com

We like this cat house because it has great features. It comes with a detachable floor. The upper and lower levels can be joined together if the floor is removed. The most recent improvement allows for the opening of the roof. The cat home is very simple to clean, and the open roof allows for adequate airflow inside the cat enclosure. Weather- and water-resistant with an asphalt roof.

There are two front entrances and a centre little hole to prevent kitty from getting stuck, allowing it to leave swiftly in case of an emergency.

The balcony is large and has a jump platform. For resting or sunbathing, cats love the top-level deck.

Dimensions

With Ramp: 35.4″L x 28.86″W x 33.27″H

Without Ramp: 29.53″L x 28.86″W x 33.27″H

Upper sleeping area: 25.6″L x 11.8″W

Balcony: 25.6″L x 11.4″W

Bottom Level: 25.6″L x 25.6″W

Door:7.1 L x 8.3″ W

Ramp: 10.6″ L x 7.1″ W

Pros

• Easy to assemble
• Two rooms
• Looks nice
• Feral cats seem to like it

Cons

• It’s not insulated, you need to add your own insulation
• Customers say the solid wood needs coating
• Cedar wood has a strong smell, some people don’t like that

4. Petsfit Large Feral Cat Shelter

Asphalt roof

Escape door at the back

Raised floor

Weatherproof

Removable floor

Large enough for 3 adult cats

Made from spruce

$152.99 at Amazon.com

The Petsfit large outdoor cat home is made to connect you with the neighborhood’s furry residents and provide a place for stray cats to rest, relax, warm up, and protect themselves from the elements and predators. This is a spacious outdoor house that is ideal for cat catios and can accommodate many cats.

We believe that this cat house would be more suited for mild winters as opposed to snowy ones. It’s not insulated and is made from light-duty wood. It has some nice features such as the slanted asphalt roof but the front door doesn’t have any cover. It needs PVC curtains to keep snow and rain out. You can add it but there are better options available that have better features.

Dimensions

Outer dimension: 29.5″ L X 19″W X 29″H

Inner dimension: 27. 5″L x 17. 5″W x 20″H

Front door: 8″W X 10″H

Escape door: 8″W X 9″H.

Pros

• Very roomy
• Two rooms
• Looks nice
• Feral cats seem to like it

Cons

• No insulation, you need to add your own insulation
• Made from spruce which is a soft wood
• Customers say the wood is light-duty at best
• You need to weatherproof it by using weatherproof coating

5. Petsfit Outdoor Cat House

Asphalt roof

Emergency escape door at the back

Raised floor

Removable bottom boards

Sisal scratching pad

Made from spruce

$147.99 at Amazon.com

The Petsfit cat house is perfect for 1-2 cats. On warmer days, the upper terrace is a wonderful place for cats to sunbathe. It can also be used as a feeding station. The wood is varnished with non-toxic wood protection paint. The quality of the wood isn’t that great though as spruce is a softwood. This cat house is good if you can place it in a sheltered area.

Dimensions

30″ L X 22″W X 29″H

Inner dimension: 19″ L X 19″W X 11″H

Front door: 6″W X 7″H

Escape door: 6″W X 6″H. 

Pros

• Very roomy
• Two rooms
• Looks nice
• Feral cats seem to like it

Cons

• No insulation, you need to add your own insulation
• Made from spruce which is a soft wood
• Customers say the wood is light-duty at best

6. The Kitty Tube

100% weatherproof

Fully Insulated

Built-in lifting handles

Unique door design that protects cats from predators

Removable clear flap door

Environmentally friendly

Made in the USA from recycled materials

Alley Cat Allies and Feral Fixers approved

$169.99 at Amazon.com

The Kitty Tube is a great alternative to wooden cat houses. It’s a really good outdoor cat house for multiple cats. It’s well-insulated with straw, moisture resistant and has a raised floor to keep cats off the cold ground. The top lid can be removed for easy cleaning. The interior is smooth and can be quickly cleaned with a garden hose thanks to the one-piece design. Even in the heaviest downpours, the dome lid and machine-washable bespoke pet pillow keep your pet dry. Your pet will have a cozy, dry home in the Kitty Tube. Your cat may easily pass through the one-door design while predators like dogs or coyotes are unable to gain access to your cat.

Dimensions

24 x 24 x 23 inches; 23.59 Pounds

Pros

• The shell has warranty for life
• Well insulated
• Well made
• Easy to assemble

Cons

• Expensive
• Does not have an escape door

7. KatKabin Premium

Weatherproof

Comes with a fleece winter warmer

Can be taken apart for easy cleaning

Plastic flap door

$78.85 at Amazon.com

The Katkabin is a budget version of the Kitty Tube. It does come with a winter warmer but customers say it doesn’t keep its shape. The plastic door flap moves easily in wind and rain allowing water to get in. Therefore, this cat house needs to be placed in a sheltered area away from rain and wind.

Dimensions

22.83 x 16.93 x 14.57 inches; 7.17 Pounds

Pros

• Offers a private space for kitty
• Easy to assemble

Cons

• Expensive as it lacks many necessary features
• Does not have an escape door
• The Katkabin itself isn’t insulated
• Wobbles in wind

8. K&H Pet Products Outdoor Heated Kitty House

Weather resistant

Insulated

Available heated or unheated

Plastic flap door

Escape door

Large enough for multiple cats

$79.99 at Amazon.com

The K&H Pet Products heated kitty house is great if you can provide access to a garage, barn or any other dry sheltered area. It’s weather resistant but not fully waterproof. K&H only employs materials of the highest caliber. To go beyond electrical norms, they collaborate with MET Labs. Each K&H electrical product is safety approved, giving you the assurance that your pet and your home are safe when using them.

Dimensions

21.5″ x 26.5″ x 15.5″

Pros

• Well made
• Easy to assemble
• Safety certified
• Keeps kitty warm even in sub-zero temperatures

Cons

• Can’t be used outside as it will get wet
• Not windproof

9. K&H Pet Products Thermo Birchwood Heated Kitty Home

Weather resistant

Available heated or unheated

Plastic flap door

Recommended for 1 cat

$94.99 at Amazon.com

It’s best to use this kitty home in an indoor or sheltered area (garage, shed, barn, deck etc.). It’s not insulated and does not have raised legs to keep the bottom dry in bad weather. You should never cover the heat pad with any other materials when it’s on as it could cause it to malfunction. K&H only employs materials of the highest calibre. To go beyond electrical norms, they collaborate with MET Labs. Each K&H electrical product is safety approved, giving you the assurance that your pet and your home are safe when using them.

Dimensions

18 x 16 x 15 inches

Pros

• Well made
• Easy to assemble
• Safety certified
• Keeps kitty warm even in sub-zero temperatures
• Two-year limited warranty

Cons

• Small
• Not insulated
• Does not have raised legs to keep moisture away
• Can’t be used outside as it’s not waterproof

10. Palram Pets Mona Outdoor Cat House

Waterproof

Not insulated, designed to fit a heating pad

Two removable plastic flap doors

The back door has a magnetic holder to keep it open

Can fit multiple cats

Made of plastic and aluminium

$79.99 at Amazon.com

This teepee-shaped kitty house comes with two doors and a transparent wall. It’s durable and lightweight. You need to use this cat house in a sheltered indoor area or anchor it to the ground. It’s too light to stay in place in stormy weather otherwise. Customers say it has gaps around the doors. This means you would need to add extra weatherproofing to it to keep it fully dry. Not the best for the price as it lacks some important features.

Dimensions

Outside Dimensions: W: 20.35″ x h: 21.7″ x L: 23.7″

Inside Space: W 20″ x H: 18.9″ x L: 22.5

Pros

• Weatherproof
• Easy to assemble
• Transparent back with an escape door which cats love
• Easy to clean

Cons

• Lightweight – could wobble in the wind (needs to be anchored to the ground by inserting pegs through the holes)
• Not insulated, you need to insulate it
• Cold without a heating pad
• Has gaps around the doors, not fully waterproof

Frequently Asked Questions