Outdoor cats require safe and comfortable places to sleep and take shelter, especially when they are unable or unwilling to come inside. As experts in feline care and behavior, we outline the ideal sleeping spaces for outdoor cats based on years of experience and research.

An Introduction to Outdoor Cat Sleeping Spaces

Outdoor cats are natural explorers and appreciate having options when it comes to sleeping spots. Their preferences can vary based on the weather, time of day, and how secure they feel in a given location. Providing suitable outdoor sleeping areas helps ensure they get the rest they need while keeping them safe.

When selecting or creating outdoor sleeping spaces, cat guardians should consider aspects like shelter from the elements, seclusion, warmth, softness, and ease of access. Cats also tend to favor spaces up off the ground. It is ideal to provide a combination of sleeping options around your home or yard to give your outdoor cat choices.

Key Factors For Outdoor Cat Sleeping Areas

Protection from wind, rain, snow: Outdoor cats need protection from precipitation and dampness which can chill them and make them prone to illness. Places that shield them overhead and on at least three sides work best.
Insulation and warmth: Bedding warmed by sunlight or heating pads/disks can make outdoor rest areas more comforting on cold days and nights.
Shade from sun: In hot weather, shade and airflow help prevent overheating. Areas out of direct sunlight feel more inviting.
Seclusion and safety: Cats like sleeping spaces tucked away from noise, dangers, and perceived threats. Hiding spots where they can observe their surroundings undiscovered appeal to their natural instincts.
Comfortable bedding: Cushioned, soft surfaces for nestling in and kneading help cats relax. Washable bedding is ideal for easy cleaning.
Easy access: Outdoor cats prefer sleeping spaces they can get in and out of easily, without congestion or obstacles. Elevated spots they can jump to are ideal.

Now that we’ve covered the essentials to look for, let’s examine some specific examples of what outdoor cats like to sleep in.

Enclosed Shelving Units

Cat guardians often find that enclosed cat shelving units or “cat cubbies” are an excellent option for outside sleeping spaces. These cubbies have an enclosed top and sides to protect against the elements while allowing fresh air to flow through. Their off-the-ground placement appeals to cats’ instinct to seek high perches. The privacy and snugness of a cubby helps cats feel secure.

When placed in porches, garages, or cat patios, enclosed cat shelving units make convenient napping spots. Models with plush, machine-washable lining or that accommodate pet beds provide added comfort. Some even have heated beds or pads to keep cats cozy. There are cubby styles shaped specifically to fit around air conditioning units or windows.

Select an insulated and weather-resistant cat cubby designed to be outdoors. Ensure it is sized appropriately for your cat to easily enter, stand up, and turn around inside. Mount it at an accessible height and consider including steps or ramps. Locate it out of direct sun and rain exposure while still allowing your cat to survey their domain. This appeals to cats’ safety concerns while offering both seclusion and open visibility.

Insulated Winter Shelters

In cold climates, specialized insulated outdoor shelters for cats help protect them from harsh winter conditions. These sturdy structures have layers of insulation within their walls and ceiling to conserve body heat. Their enclosed, draft-free design shelters cats from wind, snow, and freezing rain while blocking ground moisture.

Insulated winter cat shelters usually have a single entrance to retain interior warmth. The entrance is covered by a flexible flap that moves when the cat enters and exits. The floor is raised off the ground and the roof overhangs the entryway to keep precipitation out.

For amplified warmth, some winter cat shelters contain heated beds powered by electricity or microwavable heat disks. Reflective inside walls and dark exteriors help absorb and retain solar warmth. Install shelters in areas protected from the elements but exposed to ample sunlight. Place straw, blankets, or pet beds inside for additional insulation and comfort.

Insulated outdoor cat shelters are essential for cats who spend cold and snowy winters outdoors. They allow cats to take protected refuge while still enabling their independent nature.

Plastic Storage Containers

Repurposed plastic storage containers make simple, widely available shelters for outside cats. Their enclosed sides, roof, and access doorway provide security. Like insulated shelters, their raised floors keep cats up off wet or cold ground. Containers are portable, allowing you to move them into sunny spots or sheltered overhangs.

Look for sturdy, opaque plastic containers large enough for a cat to enter, stand, turn around, and stretch out. Cut an entrance hole on one side just big enough for your cat. Place the container up on bricks or blocks to lift it off the ground. Make sure the floor is smooth and free of hazards.

To make the interior more welcoming, put a folded blanket or small pet bed inside that can be easily removed for washing. During cold weather, you might add a microwavable heat disk under the bedding for extra warmth. Monitor the interior temperature on hot days and prop open the lid if needed for ventilation.

Plastic storage containers aren’t insulated, so they are better suited to seasons other than winter. But they offer cats added weather protection and privacy. Set containers up in covered areas for amplified protection. Routinely clean the interior and bedding to keep them sanitary.

Outdoor Cat Houses

Prefabricated outdoor cat houses are another readily available option constructed with cats’ needs in mind. These cat shelters consist of an enclosed wooden frame wrapped in insulation and protective material. A covered doorway allows entry out of the wind and rain. Models with extended rooflines and porches offer additional shelter.

When shopping, look for well-insulated outdoor cat houses built with weatherproof, chew-resistant materials. Choose ones with raised floors, durable construction, and easy access. Deluxe styles feature heated beds, removable bedding, or screens for ventilation. Make sure to select the right size so your cat can fully enter, lie down, and turn around comfortably inside.

For amplified weather resistance, locate cat houses in covered spots like porches or under shaded overhangs. Place the entryway out of prevailing winds while still allowing sunlight to reach the interior. Check houses regularly for moisture or mold and change out bedding frequently for cleanliness and warmth. Proper placement provides outdoor cats with refuge tailored to their needs.

Cushioned Mats or Pet Beds

Cats can never have too many cozy spots for curling up. Providing cushioned mats, crate or donut beds, or pet cushions expands your outdoor cat’s rest areas. These transportable items can be moved around your porch, patio, garage, or yard – wherever your cat likes to relax.

Choose mats and beds made for outdoor use with weather-resistant fabrics that won’t absorb moisture. For rainy climates, look for styles with a waterproof base or bottom. Avoid fillings like polyfill that absorb water and make beds prone to mildew.

Since outdoor beds get dirty faster, select ones with removable covers for easy washing. Set beds up in covered areas or sheltered overhangs during rainstorms. On sunny days, place them in shaded spots so cats don’t get overheated. Beds and mats under loungers or benches make cozy hidden spaces.

Provide a variety of beds and mats to give your cat options. Observe which ones they favor as their preferences can vary. Outdoor beds let cats nap undisturbed in comfort and are easy to supplement their other sheltered sleeping areas.

Cardboard Boxes

It’s no secret that cats love boxes. The enclosed sides and dark interior mimic natural nooks that appeal to cats’ instincts to seek out hidden dens. Outdoor cardboard boxes make quick and affordable sleeping spots you can place in sheltered spots around your yard or porch.

Ensure boxes are right-side up with an open top so cats don’t get stuck inside. The box should be large enough for them to fully stand, turn around, and lie down. Tape down any loose flaps to create a smooth entryway. Place a folded towel or small pet bed inside for warmth and padding.

Since cardboard absorbs moisture, take boxes inside or cover them on rainy days. Switch out any moist or soiled bedding promptly. Choose shaded areas away from sprinklers and direct sun. Avoid spots where boxes might blow over or get stepped on.

If your yard lacks shelters, improvise by cutting a large box into an enclosed tunnel or tent. Place it in a covered space propped off the ground. This makes a supplementary hideaway on hot or wet days in absence of permanent shelters. Just ensure it stays dry inside.

Loungers and Patio Furniture

Your outdoor furniture and loungers probably get plenty of use by family and guests. But don’t forget they can also provide sheltered relaxation spaces for backyard cats! The area under patio furniture makes a handy covered retreat from sun or rain.

Cats often enjoy crawling beneath chaise lounges, chairs, and benches where they can remain partially hidden but still observe their surroundings. Place pet beds or mats underneath to make lounging spots extra welcoming. This allows cats to nap undisturbed just feet away from your gatherings.

Try to avoid fully enclosing the undersides of furniture or limiting airflow. While privacy is nice, too much heat can build up underneath on sunny days. Make sure cats have an accessible way to come and go freely without getting stuck. Routinely peek under furniture to ensure no dampness is accumulating inside on wet ground.

Patio furniture with built-in cat perches takes feline-friendly design even further! Look for loungers and chairs constructed with integrated shelves, tunnels, and hideaways. These make furniture even more enticing while keeping cats safely off human seating. Your cat can survey “their” territory in comfort from their private nook.

Pet Playhouses

Playhouses designed for cats and dogs create backyard cottages perfect for lounging and catnaps. These pint-sized structures have insulation, enclosed sides, raised floors, and access doors. They provide cozy indoor-like shelters while still allowing cats to freely come and go.

When selecting a playhouse, choose furniture-grade weatherproof construction sized for your cat. Look for well-insulated walls and a door flap or awning that shields the entry from precipitation. The house should contain a plush pet bed or pad your cat can nestle into.

Place playhouses in shady corners of your yard or garden. Make sure rain and sprinklers don’t directly hit the entryway. Try to face the doorway away from prevailing winds but allow some sunlight inside to make the interior an inviting retreat. A playhouse becomes your cat’s own outdoor cottage for relaxing in homelike comfort.

Under Sheds or Home Foundations

When possible, take a look around the perimeter of your shed, garage, or home foundations. What may appear to you as a dark, dusty crawlspace can actually make a sheltering spot in your cat’s eyes. The foundations of sheds and outbuildings are often elevated above the dirt or grass. This allows cats to tuck themselves underneath while staying up off the ground.

These recessed areas are inherently protected by the structure overhead as well as walls on multiple sides. Their secluded nature appeals to cats’ safety instincts and curiosity to explore. You may spot outdoor cats napping in shaded, dry corners of shed foundations during heat. The surrounding earth helps insulate spaces under buildings in cold weather.

If your cat already frequently sleeps under sheds or foundations, optimize the area for them. Clear any clutter or debris and ensure the ground is even and hazard-free. Place a cat bed, mat, or towel in their favored spot to make a designated sleeping area. Just take care that rain and moisture don’t accumulate in the space underneath.

Inside Open Outbuildings

The interiors of sheds, barns, and garages make convenient enclosed spaces for outdoor cats seeking refuge or a nap. Their roofs and walls provide ample protection from sun, wind, and rain. And cats can venture in and out at will via pet doors, windows, or openings.

When preparing outbuildings as cat areas, start by ensuring the interior is safe. Remove any toxic chemicals, machinery, or clutter that could harm cats. Place litter boxes, food, water, and cat beds well away from one another. Install shelves, ramps, and perches so cats can access all vertical areas.

Next, catproof windows and doors. Screens prevent escape while allowing airflow. External cat doors grant access even when humans close up. Make windows visible by clearing views beneath them – cats like to survey their domain. In hot weather, open doors or windows with secure screens to circulate air. In winter, use insulation, heaters, or heating pads to amplify warmth.

By making interiors clean, secure, and comfortable, outbuildings become accessible micro-homes for outside cats. They appreciate the freedom to come and go alongside protection from the outdoor elements right inside.

What If My Cat Doesn’t Use Provided Sleeping Spaces?

You may meticulously set up one or more of these outdoor cat sleeping areas only to discover your feline snoozing elsewhere in your yard. What gives? Here are some possible reasons:

Unsafe placement: If sleeping spots are in high-traffic or noisy areas, cats may avoid using them. Place shelters in secluded spots where cats can relax without disruption. Never put them in corners or locations that could trap cats in case of emergency.
Insufficient shelter: Even covered areas may not protect enough from rain or wind. Use porches or overhangs to provide additional shelter overhead and on multiple surrounding sides. This amplifies protection.
Improper size: Make sure sleeping spaces are appropriately sized so cats can fully stand, enter/exit, lie down, and move around. If spaces are too snug, cats will seek roomier spots instead.
Unfamiliarity: It may take timid cats weeks or months to feel safe investigating and using new sleeping areas. Allow an adjustment period and use treats to encourage exploration. Some cats take longer warming up to changes.
Preference for heights: Sleeping up high appeals to cats’ instincts, and makes them feel protected. Try elevated shelving or cat trees positioned under roofs or porches. Use gradual ramps or steps so they’re easily accessible.
Change of seasons: With shifting weather, cats may change preferred sleep spots. As seasons progress, ensure sleeping areas are suitably protected from cold winds, snowdrifts, heat, and downpours. Expect fluidity in favored locations.

Be patient and allow cats to adjust if they don’t take to new sleep spaces right away. Over time, providing variety and choosing ideal protected placements should enable you to discover where your outdoor cats like to sleep in your unique environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do I put inside outdoor cat shelters?

The ideal contents of outdoor cat shelters include soft, warm bedding materials like blankets, towels, or pet beds. These make surfaces more cushioned and insulating. In winter, adding insulated disks or microwavable heat pads can amplify warmth. Just avoid any powered electrical heaters or harsh chemicals. Also, place litter boxes far away from food and water.

How do I keep outdoor cat shelters clean?

Frequently replace any soiled or damp bedding to maintain cleanliness. Use bedding that can be easily laundered. Clear away feces, urine clumps, and garbage promptly. Every few weeks, do a deeper scrub down of all surfaces with mild soap and water, then rinse. Allow the interior to fully air dry before adding fresh bedding.

Where is the best placement for outdoor cat shelters?

Look for areas along the sides of homes or buildings that receive some sunlight but are protected from wind, rain, and snow by extended rooflines or overhangs. Avoid excessively noisy or trafficked spots. Face shelter openings away from prevailing winds but keep them accessible via steps or ramps if elevated.

What are the best materials for outdoor cat houses?

Look for outdoor cat houses constructed from weatherproof woods like cedar and exterior-grade composite woods. These are more durable and resistant to water damage and rotting. For insulation, wool, fiberglass and recycled denim maintain warmth well. Use water-resistant fabrics like canvas for external coverings instead of absorbent materials.

Can outdoor cats get overheated in shelters?

Yes, outdoor cats are susceptible to overheating in the warm months just like their indoor counterparts. Make sure sleeping spaces have ventilation or airflow during hot weather. Shady placements help. In enclosed shelters, prop open windows, doors, or lids during the day or move them into cooler areas. Always provide ample clean water as well. Monitor cats for any signs of heat stress.

Final Thoughts

Outdoor cats thrive when provided with safe sleeping spaces customized to their needs. By understanding cats’ preferences and factoring in shifting weather conditions, cat guardians can equip their yards and porches with a variety of suitable shelters. Offering enclosed, elevated, insulated, and secluded sleeping options will allow outdoor cats to sleep comfortably and securely. Don’t forget to continuously maintain and monitor all outdoor cat shelters and replace bedding often. With some thoughtful preparation, you can give your cats everything they need to relax right at home in the great outdoors.

What Do Outdoor Cats Like to Sleep In?

Outdoor cats need access to suitable sleeping spaces that provide shelter, comfort, and security. Their preferences can depend on the cat, climate, and season. Here, we’ll explore ideal outdoor sleeping areas to meet cats’ needs:

Enclosed Hideaways

Cats feel safer in enclosed spaces up off the ground where they can hide. Some good options:

Cat patios or cubbies – Provide protection from elements while allowing fresh air. Place bed inside.
Insulated houses – Essential for cold climates. Look for heated beds or insulation.
Plastic storage containers – Cut entrance hole in plastic tub or bin. Elevate on bricks.

Covered Shelves or Nooks

Let cats sleep undisturbed in covered alcoves ideal for snoozing:

Under patio furniture – Place cat beds under chairs or loungers in a shaded spot.
Inside open outbuildings – Let cats access sheds or garages safely via doors and windows.