Keeping outdoor cats warm and comfortable throughout the winter months requires providing them with adequate shelter and warmth. A heated, insulated outdoor cat house can help protect cats from the elements while also providing a cozy space for them to rest and sleep. This guide will provide tips on how to effectively heat an outdoor cat house for your feline friends.
Choosing the Right Outdoor Cat House
When selecting an outdoor cat house to heat, consider the following factors:
- Size – The house should be large enough for the cat to move around and lie down comfortably, but not so big that it will be difficult to heat efficiently. Look for a house that is 1.5-2x the length of your cat.
- Doorway – Opt for a house with a covering over the doorway to keep wind and rain out while still allowing your cat to come and go freely. The doorway should be positioned away from the prevailing winds.
- Insulation – An insulated cat house will retain heat far better than a non-insulated one. Look for one lined with foam, straw, or other insulating materials.
- Raised floor – A floor that is raised off the ground will prevent the cold from radiating up into the house. Look for houses with a wooden pallet or similar base.
- Waterproof roof – A waterproof roof is essential for keeping the inside of the house dry in wet weather. Hard plastic or treated wood roofs work best.
- Durability – Pick a sturdy, well-constructed cat house that will stand up to wind, rain, and snow without falling apart. Avoid flimsy materials.
Ways to Heat an Outdoor Cat House
Once you have selected a suitable outdoor cat house, there are several effective methods for heating it to keep your feline friends warm and toasty:
1. Use a Pet-Safe Heating Pad
Heating pads designed specifically for pet use provide a safe, convenient way to provide warmth inside a cat house. Look for a chew-resistant cord and a heating pad without hot spots that could burn your cat. Place it on the floor of the house and cover it with a blanket or towel for soothing warmth your cat will appreciate.
2. Install a Ceramic Cat House Heater
Small, energy-efficient ceramic emitter heaters are available that attach right onto the inside ceiling of cat houses. They safely provide steady, even heat throughout the house without getting hot enough to pose a burn risk. Position the heater according to manufacturer recommendations to efficiently heat the whole interior.
3. Insulate with Straw or Hay
Loose straw or hay makes an excellent natural insulating material to place inside an outdoor cat house. Make sure it is clean, dry straw to avoid introducing pests or mold. Pile straw several inches thick on the floor of the house and replenish it regularly as needed. The trapped air pockets provide warmth.
4. Take Advantage of the Sun’s Heat
Place your outdoor cat house in a sunny location during the day so the sun’s warmth is captured inside. Position the doorway away from prevailing winds so the heat does not quickly dissipate. You can also paint the exterior of the house black to better absorb heat from the sun.
5. Add a Dual-Function Heated Pet Bed
Heated pet beds designed for outdoor use can provide warmth and soft comfort for your cat. Look for a water-resistant model and place it inside the cat house, providing your pet a toasty bed within the heated enclosure. Follow all manufacturer safety guidelines.
6. Microwaveable Heat Pads
Microwavable heat pads filled with grain, rice, or other materials hold warmth effectively when heated according to package directions. Place them beneath blankets in your cat’s house and swap them out for reheated ones as needed to provide safe, soothing heat.
7. Position House Against a Warm Wall
Placing your outdoor cat house against an exterior house wall that has warmth radiating through from the indoors can help raise the interior temperature of the cat house. Choose a protected, dry spot under an overhang when possible.
8. Add Insulating Curtains
Hanging heavy blankets or insulating vinyl curtains over the doorway of your outdoor cat house can help retain warmth inside. Leave an opening so your cat can come and go freely. Check regularly that the curtain is not obstructing the entrance.
9. Fill With Straw Bale Wrap
Wrapping 2-3 sides of your outdoor cat house with sections of straw bale wrap provides good insulation against cold and wind. Overlap the wrap sections and secure them by stapling or weighing down with sandbags. Make sure to leave the doorway unobstructed.
10. Weatherproof the House
Seal any gaps, cracks or openings in the cat house with caulk or weather stripping to prevent drafts and heat loss. Make sure the floor does not have cracks that allow cold to radiate up into the structure. A weatherproof house will stay warmer.
Tips for Safe Heating
When heating an outdoor cat house, keep these safety considerations in mind:
- Never use extension cords or high-wattage heaters which could pose fire risks. Use only pet-safe heating pads and low-wattage emitter heaters designed for small spaces.
- Check that wiring and cords are not damaged before using any electrical heating device. Do not place cords where cats can chew on or scratch them.
- Follow all manufacturer instructions and operating guidelines for any heaters or heating devices. Never leave heating pads unattended.
- Ensure your cat has a way to cool off if it gets too warm, such as by leaving the doorway open or adding mesh panels for ventilation.
- Avoid using hot water bottles which could leak and burn a cat. Heated bricks or stones may hold heat unevenly and dangerously.
- Do not use straw or hay that is damp or moldy, as this can irritate your cat’s lungs.
- Place heated beds and pads on the ground, not surfaces your cat could fall off of and get burned.
With the proper heated cat house and safe operation, you can give your outdoor cat warm refuge all winter long. Check the heated house regularly to make sure it remains comfortable but not overly hot. Your cat will be a very happy camper!
FAQs About Heating an Outdoor Cat House
How cold is too cold for an outdoor cat?
Cats can withstand cold temperatures better than humans, but prolonged exposure below 45°F/7°C puts them at risk of hypothermia. Optimal outdoor temperatures for cats are 55-75°F/13-24°C. Heated shelters help them stay comfortable in colder weather.
What temperature should a cat house be?
Ideally, the interior of a heated outdoor cat house should remain between 55-75°F/13-24°C even when outside temps dip below freezing. Thermostatically controlled heating pads or emitter heaters are good for maintaining optimal temps.
Can you insulate a plastic cat house?
Yes, a plastic cat house can be insulated by gluing or otherwise attaching foam board panels, bubble wrap, or other insulating materials to the interior walls and ceiling. Straw or mylar insulation can also be packed inside a plastic house. Weather sealing the joints is also important.
How often does straw in a cat house need to be changed?
The straw inside a cat house should be checked weekly and changed completely every 4-6 weeks. Soiled or damp straw should be replaced immediately, as wet conditions will lead to mold growth. Adding cedar shavings every 1-2 weeks will help control odors.
Is it okay to use a heating lamp in a cat house?
Heating lamps are not generally recommended because of the risks of high temperatures or breaking bulbs. Safer options include heating pads, microwavable heat packs, and low-wattage emitter heaters designed specifically for indoor pet use. Supervise carefully if using a lamp.
Can I use a dog house heater in my cat house?
You can use a dog house heater, provided it is properly sized and positioned for safe use in a cat house. The heating elements should not be able to come into direct contact with the cat. Ensure the heater does not make the small cat house space overly warm.
How can I weatherproof my outdoor cat house?
To weatherproof a cat house, seal any openings, cracks or joints with caulk and weather stripping. Pack insulation into gaps. Paint or treat wooden exteriors to protect from moisture. Choose a house with water-resistant materials or coat with sealant. Position the doorway away from prevailing winds.
Is it safe to use a heated pet mat outside?
Outdoor heated pet mats are designed with weather-resistant casings and chew-resistant cords to provide safe outdoor heating. Ensure it is an outdoor rated model, follow all manufacturer guidelines, and do not use it if the cord is damaged. Mats give cats a heated place to rest.
Can I use a heat lamp for reptiles to warm my cat house?
Heat lamps designed for reptiles typically get too hot for safe use with cats. They also pose a fire hazard if dislodged. Safer options include pads, mats, and emitters made specifically for gently warming small pet houses according to manufacturer temperature recommendations.
Conclusion
Outdoor cats require special consideration during cold months to stay happy and healthy. By utilizing a well-insulated cat house and providing supplemental heat with warming beds, pads, or emitters, you can create a cozy oasis your pet will appreciate. Be sure to frequently check heated cat houses so they remain at safe, comfortable temperatures inside and out. With proper setup and care, your feline friends can safely and contentedly enjoy the great outdoors all winter long.