How to build an indoor cat house?

Providing a comfortable and safe indoor cat house is important for keeping your feline friend happy and healthy. An indoor cat house allows your cat to have their own private space to sleep, play, and relax. Building your own cat house allows you to customize it to your cat’s needs and your home’s style.

What Do Cats Need in an Indoor House?

Cats have some basic needs when it comes to their living spaces:

• Space – The cat house should give them enough room to fully stretch out and move around.
• Comfort – Cushioned surfaces for sleeping and soft materials they can sink their claws into.
• Security – The house should have hiding spots and high vantage points.
• Play space – Cats need room to play, pounce, and climb.
• Litter area – Space for a litter box, away from food and water.
• Scratching posts – Rough surfaces to scratch and trim their nails.

Cat House Size

How big should a cat house be? This depends on:

• Your cat’s size – Large breeds need more room than smaller cats.
• Number of cats – Space should accommodate all your cats.
• Cat’s personality – Active, energetic cats need more room.
• Your home’s size – Make sure it fits comfortably in your space.

As a general guideline, the minimum recommended sizes are:

Number of Cats	Minimum Square Footage
1 small cat (under 10 lbs)	16 sq ft
1 large cat (over 10 lbs)	24 sq ft
2 small cats	24 sq ft
2 large cats	32 sq ft

Bigger is always better when it comes to cat houses! Get the largest size you can fit and afford.

Indoor Cat House Materials

Cat houses can be made from a variety of materials. Considerations for materials include:

• Wood – Attractive, durable, easy to clean. Cats may enjoy scratching unfinished wood.
• Plastic – Budget-friendly, wipeable surfaces. Plastic can seem cold and may be too slick for cats.
• Fabric – Soft, cozy material cats love to sink their claws into. More difficult to clean.
• Cardboard – Affordable option cats enjoy scratching. Needs frequent replacing.
• Wicker – Comfortable and stylish but may be prone to scratching damage.
• Carpet – Soft and scratchable surface but tough to clean thoroughly.

The best cat houses use a combination of materials to optimize comfort, durability, and easy maintenance.

Cat House Design Tips

Here are some key design elements to include in your DIY cat house:

• Entry/exit points – Wide openings allow easy access and quick escape routes.
• Multiple levels – High perches and multilevel lounging spaces.
• Hideaways – Small nooks, tunnels, and covered beds for privacy.
• Scratching surfaces – Rough textures help cats groom their claws.
• Washable surfaces – Non-porous materials are quick to clean.
• Spacious interior – Roomy to accommodate cat’s needs.
• Sturdy construction – Built solidly so active cats can’t knock it over.
• Interior stimuli – Interactive toys, climbing surfaces, and treats motivate play.

Step-by-Step Guide to Build an Indoor Cat House

Follow these steps to DIY your own indoor cat paradise:

Step 1 – Design and Measure the Framework

Decide on the size and layout. Standard wood boards like 2x4s or Plywood panels work well for the base frame. Measure and cut the wood to size.

Step 2 – Build the Floor Frame

Assemble the floor frame using wood screws. Make sure the frame is square by measuring the diagonals – they should be equal. Use wood glue for extra stability.

Step 3 – Add the Sides and Roof Frame

Attach the sidewall frames to the floor frame using wood screws. Build a roof frame and attach to the sidewalls with hinges to allow easy access and cleaning.

Step 4 – Attach Exterior Siding Materials

For weather protection and durability, attach exterior grade plywood, metal, or plastic panels to the outside using galvanized nails. Make clean cuts for a neat appearance.

Step 5 – Insulate and Add Interior Walls

For cold climates, insulate between wall studs with fiberglass or eco-friendly insulation. Attach decorative wood panels or plastic sheets to the interior.

Step 6 – Include Platforms, Ramps, and Steps

Use interchangeable DIY or store-bought modular parts to add platforms, ramps, catwalks, tunnels, and steps on multiple levels.

Step 7 – Add Flooring, Beds, Scratch Posts

Install carpet, sisal rope, or hardwood on the floor. Include soft beds, dangling toys, sisal scratching posts, and litter box space.

Step 8 – Finish with Decor and Accessories

Personalize with paint colors, lighting, feline-themed decor. Add food and water bowls, litter scoop, and storage.

Step 9 – Clean and Tidy the Space

Before introducing your cats, clean the space well and remove any hazards. Maintain cleanliness and replace items like scratch posts regularly.

Best Materials for Cat House Flooring

Choosing the right flooring makes a big difference in your cat’s enjoyment of their house. Here are great flooring options:

• Low pile carpet – Soft and warm underfoot.
• Sisal or jute mats – Natural fibers cats can dig their claws into.
• Wood – Attractive hardwood avoids dampness issues.
• Bamboo – Durable and easily cleaned.
• Marmoleum – Made from natural materials, scratch-resistant.
• PVC tiles – Budget flooring, easy to wipe clean.
• Concrete – Hard surface cats can’t destroy.

Avoid using floors that could harm cats like pressure-treated wood, slippery tiles, or abrasive concrete.

Essential Extras for Your Cat House

Deck out your DIY cat house with useful extras:

• Scratching posts – Rough surfaces help cats groom their claws.
• Cat beds – Soft spots to curl up and sleep.
• Climbing shelves – Vertical spaces to perch up high.
• Hiding boxes – Enclosed spaces for privacy.
• Tunnels – Faux passageways that are fun to explore.
• Toys – Interactive playthings to bat around.
• Treat puzzles – Dispense treats when solved.
• Litter box – Essential for hygiene!

Rotate toys to keep things interesting. Place food, water, and litter apart from each other.

Tips for Getting Cats to Enjoy Their New House

Transition cats slowly to get them comfortable in their new space:

• Start by placing familiar items like beds in the new house.
• Entice with toys, catnip, and treats.
• Try feeding meals inside to associate it with good things.
• Be patient – reward curiosities and don’t force them in.
• Keep doors open so they don’t feel trapped.
• Ensure the litter box is easily accessed.
• Give access to their old space too until they adjust.
• Make sure other household pets don’t invade the area.

With time, patience, and positive reinforcement, your cats will come to enjoy their new indoor cat house!

Frequently Asked Questions

What size should I make a cat house?

For one small cat, make the house at least 16 square feet. 24 square feet is ideal for one large cat. Add 8+ square feet for each additional cat.

Where should I put my cat’s house?

Place it in an area of your home with low foot traffic and minimal noise – cats prefer calm environments. Near a window is ideal for natural light and fresh air.

How do I clean a cat house?

Use a mild, pet-safe cleaner and rinse well. Allow surfaces to dry fully before letting cats back in. Clean litter boxes daily. Wash all cat beds and soft surfaces regularly.

Should I insulate a cat house?

In cold climates, insulating walls, ceiling, and floor will help regulate temperature. Even a few degrees warmer makes a big difference!

What flooring is best for cat houses?

Cats prefer softer floors they can dig their claws into. Carpet, sisal mats, bamboo, and wood are great options. Avoid slippery surfaces.

How can I get my cat to use their new house?

Start by putting familiar items like beds inside. Use treats, toys, and praise as positive reinforcement when they enter. Keep doors open so they don’t feel trapped.

Conclusion

Building your own indoor cat house allows you to create a comfortable, stimulating space tailored specifically to your cats’ needs. Follow these steps for constructing the framework, installing cat-friendly flooring, including essential items like scratching posts and beds, and safely introducing your cats to their new home. With a thoughtfully designed cat house, your feline friends will enjoy having their very own space to call their own within your home.