Maya Ellison
Building an outdoor cat house is a simple, inexpensive project that can be completed in about an hour. It can be constructed using two plastic storage containers of different sizes, with the smaller container placed inside the larger one. The intervening space between the walls of the containers is then filled with insulating material such as straw or styrofoam. A plastic flower pot can also be used to create a tube entrance for the cat house. To protect the cat house from the elements, a plastic tarp or large garbage bag can be draped over it, and small holes can be drilled in the bottom of the outer container for drainage.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Cost | Cheap |
| Materials | Plastic flower pot, large plastic bin, thin slab of Styrofoam, straw, small plastic tub, plastic tarp, plastic garbage bag, rope, ground stakes, pallet, two-by-fours, plastic tote with locking lid, duct tape, flower pot liner, packing peanuts, shredded newspaper |
| Time | 1 hour |
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What You'll Learn
Use two plastic storage containers of different sizes
Building an outdoor cat house using two plastic storage containers of different sizes is a simple and inexpensive project. It is a great way to provide a warm and comfortable space for cats to shelter during cold weather. Here is a step-by-step guide to constructing the cat house:
Firstly, purchase two plastic storage containers, one larger than the other. A good standard pairing is a 30-gallon (110-liter) container for the larger one and an 18-gallon (68-liter) container for the smaller one. The containers can be purchased from hardware stores, or you may even have some suitable containers already available at home.
Once you have the containers, start by placing the smaller container inside the larger one. This will create an insulating layer of air between the two containers, helping to trap the cat's body heat and keep the shelter warm. Cut a 6-inch (15 cm) square hole in the side of both containers to create an entrance for the cat. This can be done using a utility knife or box cutter, but be cautious to avoid any injuries.
Next, slide thin sheets of insulation material, such as Styrofoam, in the gaps between the sides of the two containers. Cut a corresponding 6-inch (15 cm) hole in the Styrofoam sheet to align with the entrance. This will ensure the cat can easily enter and exit the shelter while maintaining the insulating properties of the Styrofoam.
Now, it's time to prepare the interior of the cat house. Cover the bottom of the smaller container with a layer of Styrofoam, providing a comfortable and insulating base. Then, fill the smaller container with a generous amount of straw. Straw is an excellent bedding material as it repels moisture and helps keep the cat warm and dry.
Finally, secure the lid of the larger container on top of the assembled structure. This will protect the interior from the elements and complete the construction of your outdoor cat house.
Some additional tips to consider:
- Place a large container of water outside near the cat house to ensure easy access to water, but avoid placing it inside to prevent accidental spills.
- Include some cat toys inside the shelter to provide entertainment and enrichment for the cats.
- If your area experiences significant precipitation, drape a plastic tarp or large garbage bag over the cat house to waterproof it.
- To avoid attracting predators, do not leave food inside the cat house after the cat has become comfortable using it.
- Consider camouflaging the shelter to blend in with its surroundings, reducing attention and providing a more discreet space for the cats.
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Cut a hole in the larger container for the entrance
To build an outdoor cat house, you will need two plastic storage containers of different sizes. A standard pairing is a 30-gallon (110-litre) container for the larger one and an 18- or 20-gallon (68- or 75-litre) container for the smaller one.
When you have your containers, remove the lids and set them aside for later. On the larger container, draw a circle in the centre of one end. The circle should be large enough for a cat to fit through comfortably. You can also cut a 6-inch (15 cm) square in the side of the large container, if you prefer a square entrance. Trace the dimensions onto the outside of the container with a ruler and pencil. Place the smaller container inside the larger one and use the hole you drew on the larger container as a stencil to draw the same size circle on the smaller container.
Now, cut out the holes. You can use a jigsaw, a utility knife, or a box cutter to do this. Make sure that the holes of each container line up together.
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Add insulating material in the space between the two containers
When building an outdoor cat house, insulation is key to keeping your feline friends warm. After cutting the entrance to your cat house, you will need to add insulating material in the space between the two containers. Straw is a great insulator and is cheap and easy to source. It also repels moisture, which is important for keeping your cat house dry. You can also use Styrofoam, which is another good insulator. Slide thin sheets of Styrofoam into the gaps between the sides of the boxes, and cut a hole in the Styrofoam for the entrance. You can also use a combination of both materials, with Styrofoam on the bottom, and straw on top.
If you are using straw, be sure to fill the small tub generously. The straw will compact over time as it gets used. You can also add some straw around the sides between the two tubs. This will help to keep the warmth in and prevent cold air from getting into the cat house. Make sure the insulating material is tightly fitted to minimise air space.
Pillowcases loosely stuffed with packing peanuts and shredded newspaper can also be used as insulation. This is a good option if you want to reuse materials you may already have at home.
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Use straw as bedding to repel moisture
When building an outdoor cat house, it is important to keep the bedding dry and warm. Using straw as bedding is a great option as it repels moisture, keeping the cat house dry. It is also a loose and dry material that offers cushioning and softness to the cat bed. Straw is the dry leftover stalks from harvested crops, and it is very effective at wicking away water, thus preventing dampness. This makes it ideal for outdoor cat houses, especially in cold weather.
Straw is a much better option than hay, which is typically used to feed animals such as horses. Hay soaks up moisture, making it cold and uncomfortable for cats. In cold weather, a wet bed of hay can even be dangerous, making cats more susceptible to sickness. Straw, on the other hand, is tough, thick, lightweight, and usually yellow or golden. It is also more affordable than hay, which generally costs two to three times more.
When using straw as bedding, it is important to pack the straw loosely into the cat house. The amount of straw needed will depend on the size of the shelter. As a rule of thumb, it is better to be generous with the amount of straw used rather than frugal. You can purchase straw from your local Tractor Supply store, a local farmer, or online.
To maintain hygiene, it is important to change the bedding in the cat shelter at least twice a year. You can also sprinkle food-grade diatomaceous earth beneath the straw to deter fleas.
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Anchor the house with rope to prevent it from blowing away
When building an outdoor cat house, anchoring it with rope is a great way to prevent it from blowing away. This is especially important if you live in an area with strong winds or if your cat house is particularly lightweight.
To anchor your cat house effectively, follow these steps:
- Choose a sturdy rope that can withstand the elements and support the weight of the cat house. Consider using a rope made from a durable material such as nylon or polypropylene.
- Determine the placement of your cat house, keeping in mind that you will need a solid structure to anchor it to. Look for existing structures such as a fence, a tree, or a part of your house that can serve as an anchor point.
- Measure the distance between the cat house and the anchor point, and cut the rope to the appropriate length. You may need to use multiple ropes for added stability.
- Secure one end of the rope to the cat house using strong fasteners or ties. Make sure this connection is tight and secure, as it will bear the weight of the structure.
- Stretch the rope to the anchor point and tie it securely. Again, ensure that the knot is tight and will not come undone easily.
- Test the stability of the cat house by gently pulling on the rope and checking that the knot holds.
By anchoring your outdoor cat house with rope, you can rest assured that it will remain in place even during windy conditions. This simple technique will provide a safe and comfortable shelter for your feline friends.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need two plastic storage containers of mismatched sizes, a plastic flowerpot, a permanent marker, a hair dryer, box cutters, a thin slab of Styrofoam, and straw.
First, place the smaller container inside the larger one. Then, cut a hole in the side of the large container, and use the hole as a stencil to cut a same-size hole in the small container. Next, place the flowerpot against the side of the large container and outline the entrance with the marker. Soften the plastic outline with a hair dryer and cut it out with the box cutters. Place the flowerpot inside the holes to create a tube entrance. Finally, fill the small container with straw and place the lids on the containers.
It is important to anchor the cat house so it doesn't blow away in high winds. You can do this by drilling holes in the bottom of the larger container and using ropes or straps to tie it down to the ground. Additionally, avoid placing the cat house directly on the ground to prevent it from getting wet. Instead, raise it off the ground using a pallet or two-by-fours.
To make the cat house comfortable, fill the small container with a generous amount of straw for bedding. You can also add some cat toys to provide entertainment. It is important to note that you should not use old blankets, towels, or hay as bedding, as these can get wet and make the cats colder. Instead, straw or pillowcases stuffed with packing peanuts and shredded newspaper are recommended.
