Build Your Outdoor Cat House: A Comprehensive Guide

Creating a safe and comfortable outdoor home for your cats is not only beneficial for their well-being but also helps in keeping your pets away from hazards or risks such as traffic. Building an outdoor cat house can be a rewarding project with just a few materials and some basic DIY skills. This guide will walk you through the process of planning, constructing, and maintaining an outdoor cat house.

Planning the Enclosure

1. Consider Your Cats' Needs

When planning your outdoor cat house, it's important to think about your cats' needs. Larger and more energetic cats might require more space and features such as multiple levels and plenty of vertical space for climbing. For smaller or more relaxed cats, you can add some but not as many features. Remember, some cats, especially those with thick coats, might prefer to stay cool and in the shade, especially during hot summer days. Ensure you provide a clean water source and a litter box inside the enclosure to keep your cats healthy and comfortable.

2. Choose the Right Location

Select a suitable location for your outdoor cat house that provides adequate space and a mix of surfaces like soil, grass, and concrete. Ensure the area is relatively closed off and free of shrubs or trees that might interfere. Consider the proximity to windows or pet doors for easy access. If necessary, build the enclosure around existing structures and ensure there is a variety of spaces for your cats to explore, such as hiding spots, perches, and viewing points.

3. Constructing the Frame

Option 1: Using a Ready Frame

You can start with a small greenhouse frame and modify it according to your needs. Remove some walls to allow for ventilation and add chicken wire if needed. You can also reinforce the structure with chicken wire to prevent digging and other smaller animals from entering. For additional customization, you could use wood to build a more tailored frame.

Option 2: Building Frames Yourself

This involves some craftsmanship but is relatively straightforward. Use wood or any material that can withstand bad weather. Ensure the enclosure is sturdy and can stand up to wind and other elements. Add features such as a polycarbonate roof for light and views, a wire mesh ceiling for safety, and consider integrating a space that allows for easy rain drainage.

4. Covering the Roof

Cover the roof with chicken wire or transparent plastic panels. If using chicken wire, provide a dry spot for your cats to stay in during rain or other bad weather. Ensure the surface is slightly sloped to allow water to flow off, and consider using large zip-ties to secure the panels and prevent gaps where cats could escape. Secure the roof to prevent wind damage.

Building With Storage Cubes

You can purchase storage cubes from Amazon and use zip ties and a rubber mallet to construct an enclosure. This method is more cost-effective and can be scaled easily according to your needs. Make sure to include access points for your cats, such as a cat door or screen door with a covered flap. Design the enclosure with ground level and ceiling level 2 or 4 panels, allowing for easy ventilation and light. Leave the bottom open or provide a wooden or plastic floor, as cats do not enjoy stepping on wire grates.

Building With Planks and Chicken Wire

1. Digging Holes for Posts

Place vertical 4x4x6-foot posts every five feet around the perimeter of your structure, ensuring they are at least a foot deep to remain sturdy. Choose a well-drained location that is less prone to becoming muddy.

2. Constructing Support

Attach 2x4 planks to the posts for support. Ensure the base is level and the ceiling is even, and consider adding a centerline of support across the ceiling if the enclosure is wider than 10 feet. Use 2x6 beams for additional stabilization.

3. Building a Door

Install a door using shed hinges and a metal handle and sliding latch for easy access. After setting up the door, add chicken wire to the entire structure, ensuring no gaps remain at the bottom or posts. Secure the mesh with heavy-duty staples and consider zip-tying layers to maintain a consistent structure.

4. Providing Shelter

Prepare a large enclosed comp box with insulation foam, hay or grass, and a t-shirt or sweater for extra comfort. Make a doorway and ensure it is adequately covered. Use a marker to trace and carefully cut openings for light. You can also add cutout fabric for a closable doorway and write your address on the box to prevent it from being lost.

Conclusion

Building an outdoor cat house is a thoughtful and important task. By following these steps, you can create a safe and comfortable environment for your furry companions. Remember to provide all the necessary elements for their well-being, such as a clean water source, a sheltered area for the litter box, and a designated space for play and relaxation. Enjoy the process of building your cat's new sanctuary!