Guide/How-to | Alley Cat Allies

Pre-Built | Assembly Required: Easy | Moderate | Advanced

Providing shelter is a great way to keep cats safe from the elements and can help you monitor their ongoing well-being. There are several options available for feral cat shelters. Below are just some of those options.

Learn what makes a good shelter for outdoor cats.

Looking for other ways to keep cats more comfortable outdoors? See our tips for winter, summer, and year-round care.

Pre-Built Cat Houses

K&H Outdoor Heated Kitty House Advantages: Waterproof vinyl backing, easy to assemble, 2 exits, thermostat-controlled, heated floor pad, comfy. Disadvantages: Cost, not as sturdy as more permanent shelters, may not provide adequate protection from predators because of the materials used and large door openings. Purchase via Chewy

Catio Furniture™ Feral Cat House Advantages: Weatherproof, drain holes. Disadvantages: Cost, may not accommodate more than one cat. Purchase via Amazon

KatKabin Advantages: Lightweight, protects from the elements. Disadvantages: Cost, not well insulated, complaints about cracking in outer plastic.

Special thanks to Modern Cat. Purchase via Amazon.

The Kitty Tube Advantages: Made from recycled materials, weatherproof, insulated, removable lid, easily cleanable, and comes with a “straw only” option. Disadvantages: Cost, the pet bed option is not recommended for outdoor use.

Special thanks to The Kitty Tube. Purchase via KittyTube.

Ark Workshop Outdoor Cat House Advantages: Sturdy wooden construction, spacious, available with add-ons such as insulation, another exit, door flaps and overhangs, and risers.. Disadvantages: We don’t recommend some of the bedding options such as cedar and pine shavings. The base price is reasonable, but once you include add-ons, it can get pricey!

Special thanks to Ark Workshop Purchase via Ark Workshop

Feral Villa Advantages: Durable wood and weatherproof shingles. Disadvantages: Requires some tools for construction. *Check out the pre-made feeding stations available for purchase on the same site.

Special Thanks to Feral Villa. Purchase via Feralvilla

Plastic “Igloo” Shelter Advantages: Pre-made and can be purchased at most pet stores. Disadvantages: Wide door opening makes this shelter harder to insulate and guard against the wind. This also provides less protection from predators. Purchase via Amazon

Easy DIY Feral Cat Shelters

Alley Cat Allies’ DIY Outdoor CAT Shelter Advantages: Inexpensive, easy to build and transport. Disadvantages: Lightweight provides less protection from predators than a wooden structure. Get the Instructions