The 6 best outdoor cat houses to keep them warm and dry
When you buy through our links, Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more.
In winter, cats that live or play outside face freezing temperatures, wind, and wet weather. Although the weather conditions a cat can tolerate vary depending on age, coat type, and certain medical conditions, cats are susceptible to frostbite and hypothermia the same way humans are.
A well-designed, insulated cat house can keep felines warm and dry in the worst conditions. To understand which features are essential to a good outdoor cat house, we consulted with three experts on outdoor cats and pet safety.
We then applied their advice to an extensive survey of the market in search of the best outdoor cat houses, including heated, multicat, and wooden models. Our experts also shared tips for crafting an affordable DIY shelter.
Learn more about how Insider Reviews tests and reviews pet products.
The best outdoor cat houses in 2022
Best outdoor cat house overall: Petsfit Outdoor Cat House, $89.99 at AmazonThe weatherproof Petsfit Outdoor Cat House has a pitched roof, asphalt awning, and removable floor boards for easy cleaning.
Best heated outdoor cat house: K&H Pet Products Outdoor Heated Kitty House, $58.99 at PetcoThe K&H Pet Products Outdoor Heated Kitty House comes with a fleece-lined heating pad to keep its interior cozy and warm.
Best outdoor cat house for winter: The Kitty Tube Outdoor Cat House, $169.99 at AmazonThe super-tough Kitty Tube is insulated with foam and straw and its waterproof shell is guaranteed to hold up for life.
Best multicat outdoor cat house: K&H Pet Products Extra-Wide Outdoor Kitty House, $72.83 at ChewyThe K&H Pet Products Extra-Wide Outdoor Kitty House provides warm shelter for multiple cats when temperatures drop.
Best wooden outdoor cat house: Feralvilla Outdoor Cat Shelter II, $98.95 at FeralvillaThe two-level Feralvilla Outdoor Cat Shelter II has a fully insulated and protected "bedroom" that keeps kitties warm and dry in bad weather.
Best DIY outdoor cat house: Rubbermaid Brute 14-gallon and 20-gallon totes, from $19.48 at Lowe'sWith Rubbermaid's Brute 14- and 20-gallon totes, you can make an outdoor cat shelter that is affordable, waterproof, and easy to maintain.
