Cats are independent and territorial beings. If you give them a separate outdoor space, they will be able to satisfy their natural instincts. It will give them a safe space to look forward to after a tiring day of roaming around. An outdoor cat house for multiple cats will provide the best space for them to enjoy solitude together.
With so many things to take into account, purchasing an outdoor shelter for your cats can be difficult. We can help you in selecting outdoor cat houses for multiple cats that meet the needs of your furry pets. We have chosen the top 5 cat shelters to help you save time. Let’s begin!
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What to Look for in the Best Outdoor Cat House for Multiple Cats
Each and every cat requires a home of its own. That could mean a big wooden structure in your lawn for some people, or a more portable, smaller plastic house for others. But how can you determine what kind of home is best for your cats?
Weather-Resistant, Durable Materials
When choosing an outdoor cat house, durability is everything, especially if it’s going to sit outside all year round. You should look for a large outdoor cat house for multiple cats that is made using cedar wood. Cedar wood is naturally resistant to warping and decay, so it’ll stand up to rain, snow, and sun.
Another great option for an outdoor multi cat house is eco-plastic. It is low maintenance and won’t bend or splinter. It will be a durable shelter that’s easier to clean.
At the end of the day, you should be looking for a cat house that is made using weatherproof materials. That way, you can keep your cats safe from the outside elements.
Insulation and Heating Options for Cold Weather
It is very important to keep the cat house warm in case you live in a region that has cold winters. Choose your outdoor multiple cat house that has insulation built into walls and floors, to help retain warmth and keep cold air out. Several cat houses even provide outdoor heating pads, which can make a world of difference during freezing temperatures.
If you feel that the insulation won’t be enough for the freezing cold, you can also add a cozy blanket to offer extra comfort to your little ones. Cats are experts at finding the warmest spot with the right insulation and heating. So, your cat house for multiple cats will soon become their favorite.
Multiple Entry and Exit Points for Safety
Since you are buying one outdoor cat shelter for multiple cats, you need to have at least two entry and exit points. It goes without saying that cats like their personal space and overcrowding can lead to territorial stress. You can avoid that stress and other predator risks by adding a multi-entry cat house. This will allow them to enter and exit the house without bumping into one another.
Size and Space for Comfort
When it comes to space, more is definitely better! If you’re going to a house, let’s say two cats who like to snuggle, you can do with a small one. But, if you have multiple cats, you want a house that’s big enough to let each one of them have their own resting area.
Ideally, a house for two cats should be large enough for each to stretch out comfortably. For 3-4 cats, look for models with multiple levels or rooms. Around 24-36 inches of floor space per cat is a good rule of thumb, so that everyone has their own spot to relax. Just make sure no one steps on each other’s paws.
Top Features of Outdoor Cat Houses: Finding the Best Fit
Now that you understand the needs of your cats, you need to make sure you get the cat house with the right features.
Elevated Designs for Weather Protection
You might have noticed that your grass stays damp if you live in a humid region. In wet or cold weather regions, a raised cat house can be a lifesaver. Elevating it a couple of inches off the ground can keep the humidity at bay. This design provides separate space for insulation to avoid heat loss by conduction. It also creates space for air to flow between the house and the ground. It gives your cats a warm dry place to stay comfortable during the rain.
Multi-Level and Spacious Shelters
As we already discussed, cats like to have their personal space. It is a good idea to invest in a multi-level shelter to provide a separate sleeping space for all the cats. And not just for sleeping; they can also enjoy their playtime with their favorite ball of wool on their level.
Portability vs. Permanent Outdoor Cat Houses
Now, you have to consider the possibility of portability. Do you want a fixed home for the cats or do you want to change the location of their house as per the season? Weigh out the pros and cons of collapsible shelters vs the permanent setups.
Feature | Portable Cat Houses | Permanent Cat Houses |
Flexibility | Easy to move around the yard or bring indoors | Fixed in one location, meant to stay put |
Material | Lighter materials (e.g., soft plastic, fabric) | Sturdier materials (e.g., wood, heavy-duty plastic) |
Weather Resistance | Generally suited for mild weather conditions | Built to withstand year-round weather |
Insulation | Limited insulation; some may have removable pads | Often better insulated, with built-in options for warmth |
Storage | Can be folded or collapsed for easy storage | Not designed for storage |
Durability | Less durable over time, may need frequent replacement | Long-lasting and more durable |
Best For | Seasonal or flexible use, like traveling with pets | Long-term, year-round outdoor use in stable locations |
Top 5 Recommended Outdoor Cat Houses for Multiple Cats
Choose one of the best outdoor cat houses for multiple cats and give your pets a comfortable place to relax in.
1. VEVOR Outdoor Cat House
VEVOR Outdoor Cat House is a leading choice for multiple cats. It is made using weatherproof materials to withstand the extreme temperatures of your area. Additionally, it features multiple entry and exit points for safety so that your cats don’t trap themselves inside accidentally. More importantly, it has a spacious design with 7 tiers and 2 resting boxes to house multiple pets.
VEVOR’s Multi-Cat Outdoor House has a huge entrance that allows two cats to enter at once. It also makes it easy for you to clean the house. The entrance door has a safety latch that you can fasten at night once all the cats are inside. This makes sure that no predator can enter the house.
Talking about installation, this cat house is a DIY home that can be set up within an hour. The kit includes all the necessary tools to build the house and a detailed instruction manual to set up the house easily and quickly.
Recommended For Your Project
Why It’s Great:
- Durable structure
- Insulated options
- Easy setup
- Optimal space for larger groups of cats
2. K&H Pet Products Multi-Kitty A-Frame
The K&H Pet Products Multi-Kitty A-Frame is a warm, sturdy outdoor cat house for multiple cats. This is a product that will keep your cats comfortable and warm at all times of the year. It is made of strong, water-resistant materials so it can shrug off rain, snow, and cold weather.
The unique shape of the A-frame sheds rain and snow naturally, which keeps the interior dry during the wet months. As soon as the cats feel threatened or stressed they can easily exit from two different points. This feature is very useful for outdoor or community cats who may have to quickly escape another animal. It provides extra security and comfort to them.
This house is perfect for anyone living in cold climates because it comes with a soft heated pad. It warms up safely and provides gentle warmth throughout those cold winter months. The inside is large enough for two or more cats. They have enough space to lounge together or apart without feeling cramped.
Why It’s Great:
- Insulated heat pads
- Portable
- No assembly required
- Water-resistant fabric
3. Petsfit 2-Story Weatherproof Outdoor Cat Shelter
For people who live in a region with four seasons or unpredictable weather, this cute outdoor cat home is a great option. The elevated bottom level, asphalt roof, and anti-rot fir wood will help keep the shelter dry. The windproof front entrance flap will keep your cats cozy in the weather.
Your cats can stretch and hone their claws without venturing too far from home thanks to the ramp’s dual role as a scratching mat. The shelter has multiple areas for your cats to relax and enjoy their time in nature. It also features an emergency one-way exit door for your cat to exit freely and keep the predators out.
Why It’s Great:
- Spacious
- Sturdy
- Comes with stairs and escape options
- Fits multiple cats comfortably
4. Rockever Two-Story Outdoor Cat Shelter
The Rockever rainproof house is a great option for anyone looking for a two-story outdoor cat shelter. The cat house is available in three distinct colors, each with a white accent. All you need is a screwdriver for easy setup. The house has two floors that can be removed for cleaning, and each one has a fleece pad for your cats’ comfort. There are two doors in case your cats need to leave for an emergency.
Why It’s Great
- Well-suited for harsh weather
- Ample space
- Leaping platform for an added play area
5. Trixie Multi-Level Cat Condo
Trixie’s 3-story modular cat tower, wrapped in sisal and made of plush, is the perfect answer for your hyperactive kitty. Your cat’s scratching impulses will have a healthy outlet thanks to the sturdy, natural sisal exterior. They can later crawl into any one of the three levels with a plush interior. Each condos inside and outside are lined with luxurious, soft materials. Each floor even has a detachable cushion insert.
Why It’s Great:
- Ideal for small outdoor spaces with shade
- Stylish
- Multi-level
- Spacious for 2-3 cats
DIY Tips for Enhancing Your Outdoor Cat Shelter
With all these great options, you can never go wrong. However, you can make your cats’ home even better with these DIY tips.
Extra Insulation Tips for Colder Seasons
If your region experiences extremely low temperatures, you should consider adding extra fleece blankets for insulation. You may probably already know this but cats tend to find warm places to rest in during the cold times. Adding extra insulation is like adding a welcome mat for your little ones.
Weatherproofing and Maintenance Tips
Here are some practical weatherproofing and maintenance tips to keep your outdoor cat house in great shape:
- Reseal Annually: Protect the house against moisture and warping with a weatherproof sealant. This will preserve the insulation and durability of the structure.
- Cracks or Damage: Regularly check the house to see if there are any cracks, loose panels, or damaged insulation. Instant fixing will prevent drafts and keep the house safe for cats.
- Wipe Inside and Out: Wipe down the inside and outside surfaces monthly to remove dirt and pet hair. Use a mild soap solution for plastic or metal houses, and for wood houses, just a damp cloth will be fine.
- Replace Bedding as Necessary: If the house has bedding, you must wash it regularly to keep it clean and fresh. When it wears out and loses insulation, replace it.
- Clear Snow and Debris: If you notice snow buildup on your cat’s house, make sure you brush it off from the roof and entry points. This helps to prevent massive buildup, which could block ventilation or trap moisture. The same goes for leaves in autumn.
- Reapply Waterproof Coatings: If your cat’s house is made up of non-wood materials like plastic, consider a waterproof spray or coating every few months to keep the house weather-resistant.
Personalize with Accessories for Enrichment
An aesthetic appeal will never go out of style. Try adding some personal accessories like pretty scratching posts, catnip planters, and ramps to enrich the outdoor environment.
Commonly Asked Questions about Outdoor Multi-Cat Shelters
Where’s the Best Location for an Outdoor Cat Shelter?
The ideal site for an outdoor cat shelter is a peaceful, covered space that the cats are accustomed to, preferably close to where they are currently fed. The entrance should be angled away from the wind and elevated slightly above the ground to provide shelter from the weather. It should be positioned in a way that dogs or other predators cannot get to it.
How to Keep the Shelter Warm in Winter
Make straw beds inside the shelter. The cat will adore a heated mat underneath the bedding and keep the shelter warm. You can add fleece blankets for added insulation if you want a heating solution without electricity.
How to Clean and Maintain an Outdoor Cat House
Regularly clean the interior and exterior of the outdoor cat house with mild soap and water to keep it hygienic and long-lasting. Replace the bedding as necessary. Check for damage and reseal wooden surfaces once a year. Keep the area around free of debris and snow for easy access. Ensure there is proper ventilation to prevent moisture buildup.
Summary
It is a great idea to invest in an outdoor cat house for multiple cats. It invites feral cats and gives them a safe shelter in extreme weather conditions. You can check out VEVOR’s outdoor cat house if you want a quality, weatherproof, and cat-friendly solution.