How to Choose the Right Cat House: Outdoor, Indoor & Everything In Between

Whether you're caring for a feral cat colony or pampering your indoor kitty, the right cat house makes all the difference. From insulated shelters to stylish indoor options, there’s a perfect fit for every feline—and every human who loves them.

From outdoor cat houses to indoor shelters and feeding stations for feral cats, here’s how to choose the best option for your feline friends. Let’s break down the different types so you can choose what works best for your space and your cats.

1. Outdoor Cat Houses (Cat Houses for Outside, Built for the Elements)

These cat houses built for the outside are the heavy lifters—designed to withstand rain, snow, and sun, and built for long-term durability. Our outdoor cat shelters are designed to keep your cats safe, dry, and warm all year round.

Our houses are built with real cedar, which naturally resists rot, mold, and insects—making it ideal for cat houses that live outside full-time.

✅ Great for:

• Stray or feral cats
• Outdoor cats in rural or wooded areas
• Long-term protection in all seasons

 2. Feeding Shelter for Feral Cats

A feeding station or feeding shelter gives outdoor cats a dry, elevated place to eat—especially important during rainy or snowy weather. These don’t have doors or windows, but depending on the model, they can include a wide overhang, a covered roof, or an elevated base for added protection.

✅ Great for:

• Feral cat colonies
• Volunteers doing TNR
• Preventing soggy kibble

3. Insulated & Heated Cat House

Cold winters? No problem. An insulated cat house for outside offers extra protection from the chilly temperatures. Many can be upgraded with a heated cat pad for added warmth. This feature is available as an add-on when customizing your cat house. Check out our Instagram page @undercoverpethouses to watch how to clean the inside easily. 

✅ Great for:

• Harsh winter climates
• Cats that need to stay warm overnight
• Rescue orgs and rural properties

4. Indoor Cat House (Kitty Condo: Cat House Indoor Use)

Not all cat houses live outdoors! An indoor cat house adds charm to your home while giving your cat a cozy retreat. Wood models look clean and stylish—zero plastic, all charm.

✅ Great for:

• Indoor cats who love hideouts
• Apartment living
• Adding a natural look to your home

5. Cat House with Deck & Loft 

Looking for something fun and functional? A cat house with a deck & loft gives your cat options—to nap, sunbathe, or keep an eye on their territory. Bonus: raised designs add extra protection from rain and snow.

✅ Great for:

• Cats that love climbing
• Homes with decks or patios
• Outdoor cats who enjoy being elevated

6. Double-Decker Cat House (Multi-Cat Friendly)

Got more than one cat? A double-decker cat house is like a duplex for your pets. Each level has its own entrance and cozy space, giving cats privacy while sharing the same structure. Add a heated pad to keep your cat extra cozy in cold weather.

✅ Great for:

• Feral colonies
• Homes with multiple cats
• Rescue groups

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right cat house for outside or inside depends on your cats’ needs—and your climate. Whether you're setting up a feeding station for strays or creating a cozy nook for your indoor kitty, there's a perfect option for every setup.

Ready to browse? Check out our full collection of handcrafted cedar cat houses at www.undercoverpethouses.com