Having an outdoor cat can be rewarding, but it’s important to make sure they are warm and dry during the colder winter months. An insulated, weatherproof cat house can help keep your feline friend comfortable when temperatures drop. Here are some tips on how to make an outdoor cat house for winter.
Choose a Sheltered Location
Pick a spot that is protected from wind, rain, and snow. Ideally, place the cat house in a covered area such as under an eve, porch, or carport. This will provide additional protection. If you don’t have a covered space, position the house against the house or garage to block prevailing winds. Avoid low areas that can flood.
Use the Right Materials
- Wood: Use exterior grade plywood at least 1/2 inch thick for the walls and roof. Avoid thinner wood that can warp. Waterproof with polyurethane.
- Plastic: High impact plastic shelters hold up well to weather. Look for reinforced corners and door flaps.
- Insulation: Use insulation rated for outdoor use like rigid foam boards or fiberglass batts. This adds warmth.
- Waterproof floor: Elevate the floor and make it waterproof with treated plywood or plastic decking material.
Design for Warmth
- The ideal size is just big enough for your cat to enter, turn around, and lie down.
- Make sure the house retains your cat’s body heat but allows for ventilation.
- Add insulated flaps over the entrance and ventilation holes that can be shut when needed.
- Face the entrance away from the wind or provide an L-shaped entrance.
- Use a double wall design with insulation between the walls. Or pack insulation material inside.
- Elevate the house slightly off the ground for air flow.
- Paint the exterior a dark color to absorb heat from sunlight.
Include Bedding
Add warm, dry bedding inside like:
- Straw
- Blankets
- Towels
- Mylar space blankets
- Non-toxic hand warmers
Replace bedding if it gets wet.
Make It Weatherproof
- Use treated plywood rated for outdoor use.
- Caulk all seams and gaps.
- Cover seams with weatherproof tape.
- Install a waterproof floor liner or plastic sheet.
- Cover the roof with metal, composite shingles, or waterproof fabric.
- Seal around entrance, vents, and any holes.
Other Useful Tips
- Add a heated pet mat for very cold climates.
- Use a plastic storage bin for a quick homemade shelter. Cut a hole for a door.
- Elevate on cinder blocks or wood to prevent contact with the cold ground.
- Check the house regularly to ensure it remains dry inside.
- Provide an enclosed space small enough to retain body heat.
- Make sure the shelter is accessible – clear of debris and snow.
- Use natural insulation like straw that dries out quickly if it gets wet.
- Provide multiple houses around your property so your cat always has access.
With the right preparations, your outdoor cat can comfortably and safely wait out winter storms. Providing an insulated and weatherproof cat house gives them a warm, dry refuge.
Frequently Asked Questions About Outdoor Cat Houses in Winter
How cold is too cold for an outdoor cat?
Cats can tolerate low temperatures if they have a warm, draft-free place to shelter. Ideally, the inside of the cat house should stay at least 10-15°F warmer than the outside temperature. If it consistently drops below freezing (32°F), your cat may need additional heat sources.
Should I insulate the floor too?
Yes, it’s important to insulate the floor too, especially if it is suspended off the ground. You can use rigid foam insulation or fiberglass mats made for outdoor use. A layer of straw or Mylar blanket on top adds cushion and warmth.
How big should a winter cat house be?
The house should be just big enough for the cat to get inside, lay down, and move around a little—typically less than 5 square feet of floor space. If the house is too big, it will be harder to keep it warm.
Should I heat my outdoor cat house?
In extremely cold climates, heating may be necessary. Use caution with electrical heating pads—they can overheat. Safer options are microwavable heat pads or disposable hand warmers. Check the temperature inside to ensure it doesn’t get too warm.
What is the best insulation for a cat house?
Fiberglass batts or rigid foam boards like Styrofoam provide excellent insulation for cat houses. Make sure any insulation material is rated for outdoor use. Avoid getting the cat’s bedding wet so the insulation works effectively.
Can I use a plastic storage bin for a cat shelter?
Yes, plastic storage bins make inexpensive, quick shelters. Choose one that is big enough for the cat to enter and turn around. Cut out a hole for a door and add insulation and bedding inside. Wrap the bin in insulation or enclose it in a wood box for added warmth.
Conclusion
Outdoor cats need a warm, dry refuge to escape winter weather. Building them an insulated cat house helps outdoor kitties thrive despite the cold. Use weatherproof, insulating materials and allow for ventilation. Position the shelter in a protected spot. Add ample bedding that stays dry. With preparation, your feline friend can stay comfy and safe outdoors even when the mercury drops. Be sure to check on your cat often and watch for signs they need warmer shelter. A well-built cat house makes enjoying the outdoors possible all winter long.