The Best Weatherproof Cat Houses
We all love cats, but let's face it. Some cats prefer the freedom of the outdoors, and we're okay with that. But that doesn't mean we have to be okay with our furry friends being exposed to snow, rain, and extreme temperatures. That's where weatherproof cat houses come in handy. Whether your cat is domesticated or feral, a weatherproof cat house provides them with the shelter they need.
What to Look For
In our research, we found that the best weatherproof cat houses are durable, comfortable, and easy to assemble. For example, MIU COLOR offers a user-friendly cathouse that avoids the use of hard plastics and splintery wood. It also boasts a stress-free assembly. If you need something that can withstand harsh cold weather, The Kitty Tube is your best bet with its super thick insulation. Read on to learn more about our favorite picks.
MIU COLOR Weatherproof Cat House
Outdoor cat houses can be rather bulky, but MIU COLOR proves that doesn’t always have to be the case. MIU COLOR trades hard plastic for a soft yet durable faux linen and PVC, both of which are surprisingly resistant to snow and rain. It also comes with a comfy dual-sided cushion. The furry side is ideal for cold weather, and the PVC side is perfect for rainy days. There’s also a flap door that keeps the cold and heat from entering. What’s not to love?
Pros:
- We think this cat house is a great option for indoor/outdoor cats.
- We also found that it’s super easy to assemble — no tools required.
Cons:
- While MIU COLOR advertises that this is weatherproof, we’d keep this under a roofed porch or somewhere similar.
Rockever Outdoor Cat Shelter
Stepping up
With personal touches like a flowerbox and shingled roof, Rockever puts the “house” in cat house. We especially love the front step, which makes it easy for your cat to get in and out of their new favorite outdoor nook. And if you have more than one cat, this shelter comfortably holds two to three, though three can be a bit snug. While this is made of fir wood, it’s sealed and nonporous, so you don’t have to worry about water leakage. Plus, there are two entry points, one in the front and the other in the back. There are even a few peepholes, so your cats stay in on the action. You can also use the peephole as a way to plug in an electric heat pad for when the temperature drops.
Pros:
- If you live in a colder climate, we found that it’s fairly easy to add insulation to this cat house.
- We love that it’s available in different colors instead of just a drab gray like other brands.
- You might need a second pair of hands, but assembling this cat house is pretty easy and should take you less than an hour.
Cons:
- The trim appears a little crooked after assembly.
Aivituvin Outdoor Feral Cat House
Another level
Aivituvin’s two-level cat house gives up to two cats enough room to move around without bumping into each other. There are a couple of entry points along with two solid wood jump ramps, so your cats won’t ever feel confined. The entry points are covered with a flexible clear PVC door that limits outdoor exposure. Our favorite feature is the asphalt roof. It keeps rain and snow out but also opens up so you can easily clean the interior. Now, that’s convenient.
Pros:
- It holds up well to extreme temperatures, hot or cold.
- We found this to be quite roomy for two average-sized cats.
Cons:
- The cat house has a strong smell, but it should dissipate in a day or so.
Palram Mona Outdoor Cat House
Keep it clean
Palram’s outdoor cat house is more durable than you think. But that’s not even the best part. Palram uses its own patented Palboard material that’s urine-proof and fire-resistant. We also love that the cat house is 100% recyclable, so you don’t have to worry about it adding to the landfills. And while it’s made of composite plastic, it’s sturdy and durable enough for feisty kitties. Moreover, Palram designed the cat house to fit a standard-sized heating pad. Since it’s lightweight, you can easily move it around your property, but this cat house won’t blow away with the wind. It comes with pegs that allow you to fasten it to the ground.
Pros:
- Don’t let the lightweight design fool you. This cat house is tough enough for practically anything Mother Nature throws at it.
- It’s really easy to clean.
Cons:
- Water may creep in through the cracks in the doors.
The Kitty Tube Cat House
Safe and sound
This may not be much to look at, but The Kitty Tube is quite a marvel. It’s insulated from top to bottom, so your cat will stay warm or cool in any weather. There’s even a drainage system to prevent moisture from ever entering. The removable (and insulated) top allows for easy access and lets fresh air in on nice days. It even comes with a durable, washable pillow.
Pros:
- It comfortably fits up to two 20-pound cats.
- We found this to be the easiest cat house to assemble.
- It’s impressive how it keeps your cats warm in extremely cold weather.
Cons:
- Keep this out of direct sunlight on warmer afternoons. It can get really hot inside.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I let my indoor cat outside?
Most domesticated cats will have the desire to explore the outdoors. However, they lack the experience and street smarts to make it on their own. Should you want to let your cat outside, we’d recommend keeping them in a fenced yard and/or on a leash.
How often should I clean an outdoor cat house?
We’d suggest once a week, especially if more than one cat uses the house.
About the Author
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