19 DIY Outdoor Cat House Ideas Your Cat Will Love

Every cat deserves a cozy, safe, and comfortable space to enjoy the outdoors. Whether your feline friend loves basking in the sun, curling up for a nap, or watching the world go by, a DIY outdoor cat house can provide the perfect sanctuary. Outdoor cat houses are essential for both pet and feral cats, offering warmth in the winter, shade in the summer, and protection from rain, wind, and predators. Plus, building one yourself means you can customize it to match your home’s aesthetic while ensuring it suits your cat’s specific needs.

In this list, you’ll find creative, practical, and budget-friendly DIY outdoor cat house ideas that will transform your yard into a feline paradise. Whether you prefer using recycled materials, building a fully insulated wooden home, or repurposing everyday household items, we’ve got options for you. And to make your project even easier, we’ve recommended handy Amazon products that will enhance your build. Get ready to create the ultimate outdoor retreat for your furry companion!

1. Insulated Wooden Cat House – A Cozy Winter Retreat

source@beardensanctuary

If you live in a colder climate, an insulated wooden cat house is a must. This DIY project involves using sturdy, weather-resistant wood and adding insulation to ensure warmth during chilly months. A well-constructed wooden cat house keeps your feline cozy and protected from harsh weather conditions. You can add a sloped roof for rain runoff and an overhang to shield the entrance from snow. Consider lining the inside with thermal blankets or installing a self-heating cat pad to make it extra warm. Adding a clear flap over the entrance helps retain heat while allowing easy access. To weatherproof your cat house, use a pet-safe sealant to protect the wood from moisture and decay. If you’re looking for a reliable way to keep your outdoor cat warm during winter, this is one of the best options.

2. Upcycled Plastic Storage Bin House – Budget-Friendly & Simple

source@catio_living

Creating an outdoor cat house doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. One of the easiest ways to provide shelter is by using an old plastic storage bin. Simply cut a small entrance hole on the side and line the inside with straw for insulation. To make it warmer, place a smaller bin inside the larger one with insulation sandwiched between. This setup traps heat effectively, making it a fantastic choice for stray or feral cats in need of protection. It’s lightweight, portable, and weather-resistant, meaning you won’t have to worry about it getting damaged by rain or snow. If you want to make it even cozier, consider adding a soft, self-warming cat bed inside.

3. Pallet Wood Cat Shelter – Rustic & Durable

source@happy_cat_tree_house

If you love DIY projects that incorporate repurposed materials, consider building a cat house from wooden pallets. Not only are pallets inexpensive (or even free from local businesses), but they’re also durable and easy to work with. By arranging the slats strategically, you can create a stylish and sturdy outdoor cat shelter. Adding a raised base will help keep it dry, while weatherproof paint or a pet-safe wood sealant will ensure longevity. For insulation, you can line the interior with soft blankets or foam padding. This rustic shelter blends beautifully with farmhouse-style yards while providing a secure and warm space for your cat.

4. DIY Cat Teepee – A Stylish Outdoor Escape

source@catcampco

A DIY cat teepee is the perfect outdoor retreat for felines who love lounging in the fresh air. This structure is incredibly easy to make using wooden dowels and a waterproof fabric cover. The triangular shape provides a cozy, enclosed space where cats can nap while staying protected from the sun and light rain. To make it even more comfortable, add a plush pillow or fleece blanket inside. The best part about a cat teepee is that it’s portable—so you can easily move it around your yard depending on the weather. This chic and simple cat house is ideal for warm climates and adds a playful, boho touch to your outdoor space.

5. Multi-Level Cat Condo – For Cats Who Love to Climb

source@catastrophicreations

If your cat loves to climb and explore, a multi-level outdoor cat condo is an excellent DIY project. This structure allows cats to jump, play, and lounge at different heights while staying safe from predators. You can build it using wood, repurposed furniture, or even large PVC pipes. Make sure to include cozy hideouts, scratching posts, and padded perches to create the ultimate feline playground. To protect it from the elements, apply a non-toxic wood stain and use waterproof cushions. This design is particularly great for households with multiple cats, as it provides ample space for them to interact and relax.

6. Repurposed Cooler Cat Shelter – Insulated & Weatherproof

source@amystahlman

For an incredibly effective insulated cat house, look no further than an old cooler. Coolers are designed to maintain temperature, making them perfect for keeping cats warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Simply cut an entrance hole, line the inside with a soft blanket, and place a waterproof cover over the lid to prevent leaks. This low-cost DIY cat house is easy to assemble and requires minimal tools, making it perfect for anyone looking for a quick yet functional shelter. It’s also a great solution for providing warmth to feral cats in your neighborhood.

7. Wooden Crate Cat House – A Farmhouse-Style Hideout

source@houseofmeowss

Wooden crates are an affordable and stylish way to create a cozy cat house that blends seamlessly into rustic or farmhouse-style outdoor décor. Simply stack two crates on top of each other or place them side by side to create a small enclosure. Add a wooden or fabric roof for extra protection, and line the inside with soft bedding for warmth. You can also sand and paint the crates to match your backyard aesthetic while ensuring the structure is smooth and safe for your cat. This project is not only easy to assemble but also highly customizable, allowing you to get creative with design and functionality.

8. DIY Cat Igloo – A Snug Shelter for All Seasons

source@chewy

A cat igloo is a fantastic way to keep your pet comfortable year-round. This structure can be made using a large plastic tub, an old doghouse, or even a modified foam cooler. The idea is to create a dome-like space that traps heat in the winter and provides shade in the summer. You can reinforce the inside with insulating materials, such as reflective foil or straw, to regulate temperature more effectively. Some cat owners even add a self-heating pad to make it extra cozy. Whether placed on a covered porch or in the garden, a DIY cat igloo ensures your furry friend has a secure retreat no matter the weather.

9. Outdoor Cat Tent – A Fun & Portable Option

sourec@goritta.my

If your cat loves exploring but you want to keep them safe, an outdoor cat tent is a perfect solution. These tents can be easily set up in your yard, on a patio, or even while camping. You can make one using a mesh laundry hamper, PVC pipes, or durable fabric stretched over a lightweight frame. The mesh sides allow for excellent ventilation while keeping your cat protected from bugs and larger animals. Plus, a tent is easy to fold up and store when not in use, making it one of the most convenient DIY outdoor cat shelters.

10. Doghouse-Turned-Cat House – A Spacious & Sturdy Upgrade

source@pet_house_cats_dogs

If you have an old doghouse lying around, why not repurpose it into a cat house? Doghouses are already built to withstand outdoor elements, making them a fantastic base for a feline-friendly home. You can modify the structure by adding insulation, a smaller entrance for better heat retention, and soft padding inside for comfort. If the doghouse is too large, consider partitioning it with a wooden divider to create a cozier space for your cat. This is an excellent option for multi-cat households, as there’s enough room to accommodate more than one feline.

11. Hanging Basket Cat House – A Suspended Cozy Retreat

source@outdoorfurniturepakistan

For cats that love perching up high, a hanging basket cat house is a unique and stylish option. You can repurpose a sturdy wicker basket, line it with a plush cushion, and suspend it from a covered patio, tree branch, or cat stand. This design allows your cat to enjoy the fresh air while staying off the ground and away from potential threats. Make sure to secure the basket well to prevent tipping, and consider adding a small canopy for extra shade. This project is perfect for small outdoor spaces and adds a whimsical touch to any backyard.

12. Old Cabinet Cat House – A Chic & Functional Transformation

source@houseofmeowss

An unused cabinet can be transformed into an elegant cat house with minimal effort. Remove the doors or cut a circular entrance on one side, then add soft bedding inside. For extra protection, you can attach a waterproof cover to the top and place it under a shaded area in your yard. This design is perfect for those who want a more furniture-like appearance that blends into their outdoor décor. If you want to take it a step further, consider painting the cabinet in a fun color or adding decorative elements like tiny curtains or nameplates.

13. Cat House with a Green Roof – Eco-Friendly & Beautiful

source@houseofmeowss

Why not combine a cat house with a mini garden? A green roof cat house is a sustainable and aesthetically pleasing option that benefits both your pet and the environment. Build a sturdy wooden shelter with a flat roof, then add a shallow planter box on top filled with cat-safe plants like wheatgrass or catnip. Not only does this provide natural insulation, but it also creates a beautiful and functional space that blends into your outdoor landscape. Just make sure to waterproof the structure to prevent moisture from seeping inside.

14. DIY Cat Castle – A Regal Outdoor Getaway

source@catcastle.nyc

Give your cat the royal treatment with a DIY cat castle! This structure can be built using stacked wooden crates, cardboard boxes sealed with waterproofing, or even foam boards for a lightweight design. Adding multiple levels, ramps, and cozy nooks makes it a fun and interactive space for your pet. If you’re feeling extra creative, decorate the exterior with faux stone paint or stencil designs for a castle-like appearance. This project is perfect for cat owners who want a standout piece that doubles as functional outdoor décor.

15. Barrel Cat Shelter – A Unique Rustic Retreat

source@barrelcathouse

A wooden barrel makes a fantastic and stylish outdoor cat shelter. By cutting an entrance hole on the side and adding a soft lining inside, you can create a snug retreat that’s both durable and weather-resistant. Place the barrel on its side, secure it in place, and add a small awning to keep rain out. This design is not only functional but also adds a charming rustic touch to your garden or patio.

16. Plastic Tub Cat House – Lightweight & Weatherproof

source@meow.dc

A plastic tub cat house is another affordable and easy DIY project. Choose a sturdy storage tub, cut an entrance hole, and line the inside with insulation for warmth. These shelters are lightweight, waterproof, and simple to move around, making them perfect for feral cat colonies or temporary setups. To make it even cozier, place a fleece blanket inside and elevate the tub slightly to keep it off damp ground.

17. DIY Heated Cat House – Ultimate Warmth in Winter

source@catnip_queens

For those living in extremely cold regions, a heated outdoor cat house is a game-changer. You can modify any of the DIY shelters above by adding a low-wattage heating pad inside. Make sure the electrical components are safe for outdoor use and position the house in a sheltered area to maximize warmth retention. This is especially helpful for stray or community cats that need extra protection during freezing temperatures.

18. Outdoor Cat Hammock House – A Breezy Summer Retreat

source@catnets

For warmer climates, an elevated hammock-style cat house is a fantastic option. Secure a sturdy fabric hammock inside a wooden or PVC frame, providing a raised and breathable resting spot. This design keeps your cat cool and away from damp ground while offering a shaded, comfy space to relax.

19. Suitcase Cat House – A Vintage & Portable Haven

Upcycle an old suitcase into a stylish and cozy cat house. Simply prop it open, add a soft pillow inside, and place it in a covered outdoor space. You can even attach wooden legs to elevate it off the ground. This is an adorable and portable option for cat owners who love a vintage aesthetic.