Outdoor cats require safe and comfortable places to sleep and rest while spending time outside of the home. Here is an overview of the common places where outdoor cats like to sleep and some tips for providing suitable rest areas for your outside feline.
In Sheltered Outdoor Areas
Under Decks and Porches
Decks and porches provide shelter and seclusion for outdoor cats. The covered space underneath these structures protects cats from weather elements like rain, snow, or bright sun. The enclosed feeling provides a sense of security and privacy. Ensure the space has adequate ventilation and is free of lawn tools or chemicals. Place a bed or blankets there to create a cozy sleeping space.
In Outdoor Cat Houses
Outdoor cat houses or shelters are structures designed to give cats a safe place to get out of the elements. They typically have an enclosed interior with a doorway opening and a roof to protect from rain or snow. Place the cat house in a sheltered spot with protection from wind. Put a soft cushion or bed inside for comfort.
Under Garden Sheds
The space underneath garden sheds can make an appealing sleeping area for outdoor cats. The shed provides overhead shelter while the enclosed sides give a sense of security. Be sure the space stays dry and has adequate ventilation. Avoid storing anything potentially hazardous there. Add a bed or blanket for comfort.
In Barns or Outbuildings
For cats that live on farms or more rural areas, barns or outbuildings with haylofts provide warm, dry areas for cats to nestle into sleep and get out of bad weather. Ensure the space is well-ventilated, clean, and free of machinery or tools that could pose a danger. Provide a basket or box with soft bedding to create a cozy sleeping area.
In Secluded Garden Areas
Under Bushes and Dense Vegetation
Areas under bushes, hedges, or other dense vegetation mimic secure hiding spots that appeal to a cat’s natural instincts. The covered feeling and seclusion make them ideal resting places. Ensure the plants themselves are nontoxic and the area is free of pesticides or chemicals. Place a soft cat bed there to make it extra comfortable.
In Hollow Logs
Hollow logs can provide shelter similar to a manmade cat house. Ensure the log is securely positioned and unlikely to roll. Avoid logs with insect infestations, rot, or mold. Put a cushion or soft blanket inside to create a cozy nest.
In Flower Beds or Gardens
Cats may seek out a depression in a flower bed, garden, or mulch area as a form of natural nesting space. If possible, place a cat bed or soft cushion there. Ensure there are no hazardous fertilizers, chemicals, or plants present.
Under Trees
The roots or low branching areas of trees can provide cover and seclusion similar to a cave. Avoid trees that drop hazardous seeds, pods, or fruit. Place a padded mat or cat bed there for added comfort.
Inside Accessible Outbuildings
In the Garage or Shed
For cats with indoor/outdoor access, leaving the door to the garage or garden shed cracked at night provides a warm, dry place to sleep. Position a cat bed, cushion, or soft blanket there. Be sure the area is free of toxins or dangers.
On a Porch or Sunroom
Screened-in porches or garden sunrooms allow an outdoor cat to still have access to a protected indoor sleeping space at night. Install a cat door leading into the room and place cozy cat beds for resting.
In the Barn
For barn cats, leaving the barn door cracked at night gives access to a sheltered place to sleep in the haylofts. Ensure the area is free of machinery, pesticides, or other dangers. Place baskets with soft bedding to create comfortable nesting areas.
Tips for Providing Outdoor Sleeping Areas
- Ensure any manmade shelters are weatherproof and durable.
- Check areas for sharp objects, toxic plants, insects, or other hazards.
- Place soft cushions, beds, or blankets for comfort and warmth.
- Avoid disturbing established sleeping areas.
- Provide multiple rest areas so cats can choose different spots.
- Give sheltered, secluded spaces for cats to feel secure.
- Don’t disrupt or forcefully move sleeping cats – allow them to change locations on their own.
- Provide easy access to food, water, and litter areas from resting spots.
- Consider heated cat beds for extra cold weather warmth.
- Give outdoor cats indoor access at night if possible.
- Monitor outdoor areas and replace old, damaged resting places as needed.
By understanding where outdoor cats like to sleep and rest, cat owners can take steps to provide safe, comfortable, and appealing sleeping areas for their outside felines. Allowing cats access to protected, cozy spaces improves their overall health and wellbeing.