Cats love having a space of their own, and an outdoor cat house is the perfect way to keep them cozy, safe, and entertained. Whether you want a simple shelter, a multi-level playhouse, or a stylish modern hideout, there’s a design for every cat’s personality. These ideas will help you create a cat-friendly outdoor retreat.
1. Traditional Wooden Cat House
A simple wooden cat house with a sloped roof provides classic charm and excellent weather protection. The natural insulation of wood helps regulate temperature, keeping it warm in winter and cool in summer. Adding a comfy cushion or soft blanket inside makes it even more inviting for lazy afternoon naps.
2. Flat-Roof Cat House
A flat-roof cat house offers a cozy enclosed space below and a lounging area on top. Cats love climbing, so the rooftop doubles as a sunbathing spot. Using weatherproof wood or composite materials keeps the structure durable. This design works well in small yards or patios where space is limited.
3. Mini Barn-Style Cat House
A barn-style cat house adds a rustic charm to your backyard while providing excellent insulation. The sloped roof keeps rain out, and the raised floor prevents moisture from seeping in. This design can be customized with little details like mini shutters, making it an adorable addition to your outdoor space.
4. A-Frame Cat House
This triangular cat house sheds rain and snow efficiently while offering a snug interior. The simple design makes it easy to build as a DIY project, using durable wood or weather-resistant plastic. A small overhang provides extra protection from the elements, making it a great year-round shelter.
5. Duplex Cat House
A duplex cat house is perfect for households with multiple cats. With two entrances and separate sleeping areas, every cat gets its own private space while still being close to their feline friend. This design works well for outdoor cat colonies, providing shelter and warmth in a stylish and functional way.
6. Log Cabin Cat House
A log cabin-style cat house offers a cozy and rustic feel while providing thick insulation. The sturdy design holds up well in harsh weather, keeping cats protected from wind and rain. Adding a small front porch with a soft cushion makes this house a true kitty retreat.
7. Glass-Walled Cat House
A modern glass-walled cat house allows your feline to lounge while enjoying a clear view of their surroundings. Using durable acrylic or tempered glass, this design creates a sleek and stylish space. The transparency makes it perfect for owners who want to keep an eye on their pets while they relax.
8. Doghouse-Style Cat House
A classic doghouse design but perfectly sized for cats. The arched entrance and enclosed space provide a cozy and protective retreat. Choosing a waterproof roof and insulated walls ensures it stays warm during colder months. This simple but functional design blends well into any backyard setting.
9. Treehouse Cat House
For adventurous climbers, a treehouse cat house offers the best of both worlds. Elevating the structure keeps it safe from ground-level dangers while giving cats a fun place to climb and perch. Adding a ramp or ladder makes it easy for cats to access their private getaway.
10. Cat House with Green Roof
A green roof cat house provides insulation while doubling as a stylish garden feature. Covered with moss, grass, or succulents, this eco-friendly design blends naturally into the landscape. The added layer of vegetation keeps the inside cool in summer and warm in winter, making it a functional and visually appealing shelter.
11. Barrel Cat House
Repurposing an old wine or whiskey barrel into a cat house creates a unique and cozy space. The curved shape makes it feel like a snug den, perfect for cats who love tight spaces. Lining the inside with soft bedding and adding a small entrance hole completes this rustic retreat.
12. Multi-Level Cat Condo
A multi-level cat house with ramps, tunnels, and hiding spots keeps cats entertained while providing shelter. The different levels allow for climbing and lounging, making it ideal for active cats. This design works well in enclosed patios or protected outdoor spaces where cats can safely explore.
13. Pallet Wood Cat House
A pallet wood cat house is an eco-friendly and budget-friendly option. Repurposed wooden pallets create a rustic and stylish structure, offering excellent ventilation. The design can be customized with added features like a small deck or roof overhang, making it a comfortable and charming outdoor retreat.
14. Pergola-Style Cat House
A pergola-style cat house offers shade while allowing plenty of airflow. The open design keeps it well-ventilated, making it ideal for warmer climates. Adding climbing vines or curtains around the structure creates a stylish lounging space where cats can enjoy the fresh air while staying protected.
15. Igloo-Style Cat House
Shaped like a dome, an igloo-style cat house provides excellent insulation and wind resistance. The rounded design helps trap warmth inside, keeping it comfortable during colder months. It’s lightweight, durable, and easy to move, making it a great option for both feral and pet cats.
16. Outdoor Cat Playhouse
A cat playhouse combines shelter with entertainment, featuring built-in scratching posts, tunnels, and climbing areas. This design keeps cats engaged while giving them a safe space to rest. Using weather-resistant materials ensures durability, making it a long-lasting addition to any backyard.
17. Cat House with Attached Feeder
A cat house with an attached feeder makes mealtime convenient while keeping food protected from the elements. Elevated food and water bowls prevent spills and messes. This all-in-one structure is ideal for outdoor cats, ensuring they always have access to fresh food and a comfortable resting space.
18. Insulated Cat House
For cold climates, an insulated cat house provides extra warmth and protection. Using thermal panels, foam insulation, or heated bedding keeps the interior warm during freezing temperatures. Pairing it with a small doorway flap prevents drafts while maintaining a cozy environment inside.
19. Rolling Cat House on Wheels
A mobile cat house allows you to move it around the yard to find the perfect sun or shade spot. Mounted on sturdy wheels, this design is easy to relocate while providing a fully enclosed, safe space for your cat. It’s especially useful for those who want flexibility in their outdoor setup.
20. Hanging Cat Hammock House
A suspended cat house, similar to a hammock or hanging tent, provides a cozy place for lounging. Attached to a tree or a sturdy outdoor structure, it keeps cats off the ground while giving them a peaceful place to nap. It’s a great option for warm-weather relaxation.
21. Extra-Large Shared Cat House
For multi-cat households or outdoor colonies, an oversized cat house with multiple entry points and sleeping areas is ideal. This design provides plenty of space for cats to rest while allowing them to move freely inside. Adding dividers or elevated resting spots keeps every cat comfortable.
22. Tire Cat House
Repurposing an old tire into a cat house is an easy and budget-friendly solution. Cutting and stacking tires into a rounded shelter creates an insulated space that retains warmth. Lining the inside with soft fabric or fleece makes it a comfortable and secure hideaway.
23. DIY Styrofoam Insulated Shelter
A simple DIY Styrofoam cat house is great for providing warmth during winter. Using an insulated cooler lined with straw or fleece creates a weatherproof shelter that retains heat. This design is often used for feral cat shelters, offering protection against harsh outdoor conditions.
24. Foldable Canvas Tent Cat House
A canvas tent cat house provides a lightweight, portable option for outdoor lounging. This design is great for summer, offering shade while allowing airflow. Easy to set up and fold away, it’s perfect for temporary outdoor setups or travel-friendly use.
25. Inflatable Cat Shelter
An inflatable cat shelter offers a quick and easy solution for outdoor cats. Lightweight and waterproof, it provides a temporary hideaway that can be moved as needed. This is an ideal option for camping, road trips, or emergency situations where a lightweight, portable shelter is required.
Jamie is the founder of The Backyard Pros. When he was 15 years old he started working at a garden centre helping people buy plants, gardening products, and lawn care products. He has real estate experience and he is a home owner. Jamie loves backyard projects, refinishing furniture, and enjoys sharing his knowledge online.