10Best.Guide

Outdoor Cat Enclosures

Top Picks

Last Updated: May, 2023
Pros
  • Easy to assemble
  • Sturdy and well-made
  • Keeps cats warm and dry
  • Easy to clean and replenish food
  • Large enough for 2 cats
Cons
  • Strong chemical smell
  • Not 100% insulated as advertised
Bottom Line
This cat house is a good option for keeping cats warm and dry in cold weather. It is easy to assemble, sturdy, and large enough for two cats. However, there are some issues with insulation and fit that may need to be addressed.
Pros
  • Affordable price
  • Sturdy and well-built
  • Easy to assemble
  • Provides ample space for cats
  • Has wheels for easy movement
Cons
  • Some customers received used products
  • Zip ties are necessary for stability
Bottom Line
The Amazon Basics Cat Cage is a great option for cat owners who need to keep their cats contained for various reasons. It is affordable, sturdy, and provides ample space for cats to move around. However, customers should be aware that zip ties are necessary for stability and some may receive used products.
Pros
  • Easy to set up
  • Sturdy
  • Provides outdoor time for cats
  • Keeps cats safe from other animals
  • Roomy
Cons
  • Zipper can get stuck
  • No indication for which end to use when attaching components
Bottom Line
This cat enclosure is a great option for cat owners who want to provide their cats with safe outdoor time. It is easy to set up, sturdy, and provides plenty of room for cats to play. However, the zipper can get stuck and there is no tunnel sold alone.
Pros
  • Sturdy and spacious
  • Easy access to food and water
  • Can be customized to fit specific needs
  • Can be used as an aviary
  • Provides a quick solution for outdoor animals
Cons
  • Poor quality materials
  • Difficult to assemble
Bottom Line
This enclosure is a good option for those looking for a quick solution for outdoor animals, but the poor quality materials and difficult assembly may be a concern for some buyers.
Pros
  • Provides a safe outdoor environment for pets
  • Easy to set up and fold
  • Great for indoor cats to experience the outdoors
  • Suitable for bearded dragons of all sizes
  • Portable for travel
Cons
  • Mesh screening is not durable
  • Some pets may try to claw their way out
Bottom Line
This pet tent is a great solution for pet owners who want to provide a safe outdoor environment for their pets. However, the mesh screening is not very durable and some pets may try to claw their way out. It is important to supervise pets while they are in the tent.

The Ultimate Buying Guide for Outdoor Cat Enclosures

Overview

As a cat owner, you want to provide your furry friend with a safe and stimulating environment to explore and play in. That's where outdoor cat enclosures come in. These enclosures provide a safe and secure space for your cat to enjoy the outdoors without the risk of getting lost, injured, or exposed to harmful elements. However, with so many options available, it can be challenging to choose the right one for your cat's needs. In this guide, we'll explore the different types of outdoor cat enclosures, key considerations to keep in mind, features to look for, prices, tips, and FAQs.

Types

1. Cat Containment System: This type of outdoor cat enclosure is a complete system that includes fencing, gates, and other accessories designed to keep your cat contained in a specific area. It's a great option if you have a large yard or want to create a custom play area for your cat.

2. Cat Run: A cat run is a long, narrow enclosure that allows your cat to run and play while remaining safe and contained. It's an excellent option if you have limited outdoor space or want to give your cat a dedicated play area.

3. Outdoor Cat House: An outdoor cat house is a sheltered enclosure that provides your cat with a safe and cozy place to relax and nap. It's an excellent option if you live in an area with harsh weather conditions or want to provide your cat with a private space to retreat to.

4. Cat Fencing: Cat fencing is a type of barrier that prevents your cat from escaping your yard. It's an excellent option if you want to keep your cat safe without sacrificing your yard's aesthetics.

5. Cat Playground: A cat playground is a multi-level, interactive enclosure that provides your cat with a variety of activities and play options. It's an excellent option if you want to provide your cat with a stimulating and challenging environment.

Key Considerations

1. Size: Consider the size of the enclosure and whether it's appropriate for your cat's size and activity level.

2. Material: Look for enclosures made from durable and safe materials, such as galvanized steel, PVC, or wood.

3. Safety: Ensure that the enclosure is designed to keep your cat safe from predators, traffic, and other hazards.

4. Accessibility: Consider how easy it is for you to access the enclosure for cleaning and maintenance.

5. Weather Resistance: Look for enclosures that are weather-resistant and can withstand rain, snow, and other elements.

Features

1. Multiple Levels: Look for enclosures with multiple levels to provide your cat with different play and rest areas.

2. Toys and Accessories: Look for enclosures that come with toys and accessories to keep your cat entertained and stimulated.

3. Sun Protection: Look for enclosures with built-in sun protection to keep your cat safe from harmful UV rays.

4. Easy Assembly: Look for enclosures that are easy to assemble and disassemble for storage or relocation.

Prices

Outdoor cat enclosures can range in price from $50 to $500 or more, depending on the type, size, and features. Cat fencing is typically the most affordable option, while cat playgrounds and complete cat containment systems are the most expensive.

Tips

1. Choose an enclosure that's appropriate for your cat's size and activity level.

2. Consider the weather conditions in your area when choosing an enclosure.

3. Look for enclosures with built-in sun protection to keep your cat safe from harmful UV rays.

4. Choose an enclosure with multiple levels and toys to keep your cat entertained and stimulated.

FAQs

Q: Are outdoor cat enclosures safe?

A: Yes, outdoor cat enclosures are designed to keep your cat safe from predators, traffic, and other hazards.

Q: Can outdoor cat enclosures be used indoors?

A: Yes, some outdoor cat enclosures can be used indoors, depending on their size and design.

Q: How do I clean and maintain my outdoor cat enclosure?

A: Most outdoor cat enclosures can be cleaned with a hose and mild soap. Check the manufacturer's instructions for specific cleaning and maintenance recommendations.

Q: Do I need to supervise my cat while they're in the enclosure?

A: While outdoor cat enclosures are designed to keep your cat safe, it's still a good idea to supervise your cat while they're in the enclosure to ensure their safety.

Conclusion:

Outdoor cat enclosures are an excellent way to provide your cat with a safe and stimulating environment to explore and play in. With the right type, size, and features, you can create a customized play area that meets your cat's needs and preferences. Keep the key considerations, features, prices, tips, and FAQs in mind when choosing an outdoor cat enclosure to ensure that you make the best choice for your furry friend.

Runner-Ups

Pros
  • Easy to assemble
  • Good quality
  • Great value
  • Cats love it
  • Perfect for indoor cats
Cons
  • Instruction images not matching exactly
  • Wood is not sturdy
Bottom Line
This catio is a great value and easy to assemble. It is good quality and perfect for indoor cats to get fresh air and sun. However, the wood is not sturdy and the screen can be ripped off. Some parts may fall off and it takes a while to assemble.
Pros
  • Cats love it and enjoy playing in it.
  • Easy to set up and comes with a convenient carrier.
  • Provides a safe way for indoor cats to enjoy the outdoors.
  • Great size for travel and easy to fold up.
  • See-through mesh tunnel is a favorite among cats.
Cons
  • Difficult to set up and keep the shape.
  • Black material can get too hot.
Bottom Line
This portable cat enclosure is a great option for indoor cats who want to enjoy the outdoors safely. It is easy to set up and comes with a convenient carrier for travel. However, some cats may not enjoy being isolated outdoors and the black material can get too hot.
Pros
  • Well-made and sturdy
  • Easy to assemble
  • Provides a safe and comfortable space for cats
  • Cats enjoy it
  • Tent and tunnel connect well
Cons
  • Zippers and seams may come loose
  • Upper ledges are not sturdy
Bottom Line
The ABO Gear Kitty Compound Cat Play House is a well-made and sturdy product that provides a safe and comfortable space for cats. It is easy to assemble and cats enjoy it. However, there are some design flaws such as loose zippers and seams, unstable upper ledges, and a tunnel that only attaches to one side.
Pros
  • Easy to assemble and take down.
  • Provides a safe outdoor experience for indoor cats.
  • Perfect size for small cats.
  • Great for stimulating indoor cats.
  • Allows cats to enjoy the outdoors without escaping.
Cons
  • Tubes can bunch up and be difficult for cats to get through.
  • Zippers are weak and can break easily.
Bottom Line
This product is a great solution for indoor cats who want to experience the outdoors safely. However, it may not be suitable for larger cats and the durability of the material may be a concern. The tubes and zippers can also be problematic, but overall, it provides a fun and safe outdoor experience for cats.
Pros
  • Cats love it
  • Easy to assemble
  • Good for indoor cats
  • Sturdy once assembled
  • Quick delivery
Cons
  • Smells bad
  • Flimsy for the cost
Bottom Line
This catio is a decent option for indoor cats or for those with reasonable expectations. It may take longer to assemble than advertised and needs to be painted and sealed for outdoor use. It is flimsy for the cost and has a bad smell. However, cats love it once assembled and it is sturdy.
Please add more products to compare
You can compare up to four products at once
{{compareData.brand}}