In 2018, people are spending billions on their cats to keep them safe, but that isn’t always enough. To ensure your cat stays safe, you should invest in the best outdoor cat enclosure, if you plan to take your cat out on walks still, then an outdoor cat enclosure can be the perfect solution to keep your feline around a lot safer.
But, before you buy your cat an outdoor cat enclosure, you need to make some crucial considerations. Is your outdoor cat enclosure critical to your cat’s health or is it just to keep her from scratching the furniture — The answer to that question can affect the size, material, and cost of the outdoor cat enclosures you’re considering.
| Name | Category | Product |
|---|---|---|
| Nala and Company | Best Overall |  |
| Strong Camel Portable Pet Fun House Cat Dog Playpen Feline Funhouse Outdoor Mesh Tent Foldable Exercise Tent | Budget Pick |  |
| PawHut Large Wooden Outdoor Cat House | Upgrade Pick |  |
1. Nala and Company
Do you a have a cat that refuses to go outside? Then the Nala and Company Cat House might be your best bet. Especially if you have an indoor cat, but want him to get some fresh air and enjoy the sunshine.
This cat house is ideal for adult cats weighing up to 20lbs and 7’ in height. It’s made out of waterproof fabric with a waterproof removable bottom.
To set it up, all you need to do is unfold the house and attach the hoops. Then insert the stakes into the ground and you’re ready to go. Attach the tent poles to the front and back of the house. Lastly, pull up the collar to give your cat somewhere to hide.
2. Zampa Portable Foldable Pet playpen Exercise Pen Kennel + Carrying Case
Pros:
- Very affordable price point
- Portable – can be converted into a tent for indoor use
- Doesn’t require any tools to setup
- Lightweight
- Can be used for a medium-sized dog
- Provides enough space for your pet’s playtime, exercise, and relaxation
- Sails open and closes with ease
- Soft mat included
- Resistant against weather
Cons:
- Not very large; large enough for medium-sized younger dogs
- Small gaps between the floor and the washable patio mat
- The size can make your dog feel caged in
- Stability of the frame isn’t great for heavy dogs
The Zampa pet playpen is a great alternative to indoor confinement. Although it’s more flexible to fabric enclosures, it’s great for indoor and outdoor use.
The kit comes with an assembly guide, but if you are totally new to it, don’t worry because it’s not hard to setup. The best part is that it comes with everything you need right out of the box – you don’t have to purchase anything else.
3. EliteField 2-Door Soft Pet Playpen
Pros:
- Easy to assemble
- Perimeter-style door
- Folds flat for easy storage
- Quick-release latches
- Waterproof roof for wet days
- Stays clean and dry – comes with a washable removable floor
- Can create a custom shape by connecting more than one pen
Cons:
- A bit of a heavy structure
- May not be ideal for large dogs
- Some DIY assembly required
- The doors’ top latches are made of plastic, so will break if too much pressure is applied
(Assembled)
The EliteField Soft Pet Playpen is the perfect option for adventurous pets.
This pen has waterproof roof and removable floor so that you can hose it down when it gets muddy or dirty. The bottom cover can also be wiped clean.
4. ESK Collection 48" Pet Puppy Dog Playpen Exercise Pen Kennel 600D Oxford Cloth
Pros:
- 100% Brand New and HIGH QUALITY
- Lightweight and portable
- Can be connected into a larger model
- Safe and comfortable
- Keep your pet safe and sound
- Great for small dogs and cats
- The pet play pen folds flat for convenient storage
- Features include a door and panels
- Easy to assemble
Cons:
- It’s a bit flimsy
- Doesn’t do well on sloping surfaces
- Could be more open
- Wires may need improvements
The best thing about this cat enclosure, is that it’s cheaper than most of the others. It’s easy to assemble and can be connected with more to create a larger enclosure. If you have multiple pets at home, this is a great option to keep them safe.
If you’re looking for a pen to keep your cat in the house, this may not be right for you. However, if you’re looking for a cat play pen that is “portable” and you wish to keep your pet inside the room you can still give this cat pen a try.
5. Kittywalk Outdoor Net Cat Enclosure
If you’ve ever looked into cat enclosures you’ll know that they can be very expensive. Many don’t accommodate outdoor environments well, or are easy to knock over. Luckily, the Kittywalk Outdoor Cat Enclosures are affordable and don’t fall into either category.
This enclosure does not have a top, so you’ll have to keep it inside your house. Or, if you’d rather, you can at least keep it in either a covered or partially covered, protected area.
It’s also somewhat heavy, which means it won’t fall over easily. However, the weight can be a consideration when you’re moving it around.
6. PURR…FECT FENCE Purrfect Play Tent
Cats are known for their curiosity and it’s no surprise they enjoy cozy tents. The PURR…FECT FENCE Cat Tent is one such product which is guaranteed to keep your cat snuggled up and distracted.
The tent is easy to set up and collapse. It’s made up of a durable lightweight fabric which is waterproof and washable.
The PURR…FECT FENCE Cat Tent includes 3 valences and 2 toy balls for your cat’s entertainment.
7. Outback Jack Outdoor Cat Enclosures
8. Parkland Pet Portable Foldable Playpen Exercise Kennel Dogs Cats Indoor/Outdoor Removable Mesh Shade Cover
Pros:
- Very long warranty period
- Very sturdy
- Easy to set up
- Comes with water-resistant bottom to protect it from water leaks or spills
- Easy to move
- Folds up easily for storage
- Mesh openings large enough for cats to pass through comfortably
- Easy to clean
- Comes with carrying bag for transport
- Offers ventilation to feline pets
This portable enclosure is made to both protect and keep your cats entertained. It’s suitable for indoor or outdoor use and large enough to fit two cats. It’s a good option if you want your cats to have some outdoor space, but don’t want them to roam free.
This enclosure is made from polyester with a waterproof and removable bottom. The bottom can be taken off for easy cleaning. The bottom can be put back on to protect the enclosure from water leaks, spills, and general wear and tear.
It includes a mesh door which is convenient for your cats. It’s large enough to let them in and out.
9. JESPET Pet Dog Playpens 36"
Sturdy & Durable.
If you are looking for a cat enclosure to keep your cat safe then we highly recommend the Jespet Portable Dog Playpens. This product comes in three sizes, 32", 36", 45" and 61" these are pretty much just your basic dog exercise pens that you can use indoors or outdoors to keep your pets contained.
We tested out the 45" one and it worked surprisingly well. The fortress walls are tall enough to keep most cats in and it is a breeze to set up and take down. See current pricing on this one here.
10. A4Pet Portable Foldable Pet Playpen Exercise Pen Kennel Outdoor and Indoor Use
Our top pick is the A4Pet cat enclosure. Hundreds of cat owners have attested the usefulness of this product. The A4Pet cat enclosure has plenty of space for your cat to move around inside it comfortably.
It can be outfitted with additional accessories like hammocks or outdoor shelter. This cat enclosure is a good choice for owners looking for an outdoor enclosure for their cats. The A4Pet cat enclosure comes with an outdoor shelter that your cat will love. More importantly, it can double as a shaded area for your pet.
With the A4Pet cat enclosure, you can feel confident that your pet is safe from dangerous predators like birds, small dogs, and other cats.
11. ToysOpoly #1 Premium Pet Playpen
Pros:
- Quality material
- Easy to fold up and store for travel
- This cage is compatible with most pet doors
- Sturdy construction
- Suitable for cats, dogs, guinea pigs, rabbits, rats, or any small animals
And Storage.
Despite being marketed as being sizeable enough for large cats like Maine Coon or Siberian, it only works for the most petite of the breed. Other than that, they’re very happy with their purchase.
This enclosure is for the sort of outdoor cat that refuses to come in. Most owners who’ve tried other kinds of outdoor cat cages have found that the animals usually end up destroying them. So it’s a relief to see something that is weather proof, that they can leave unattended.
12. Easyology Pet Playpen
Pros:
- Collapsible for easy storage
- Easy to setup and fold, so it’s great for traveling
- Sturdy material and construction
- Big enough to fit almost all cats
- Claw-proof mesh
Cons:
- Somewhat flimsy door
- Doesn’t do well on grass
- Mesh is sometimes difficult to remove for cleaning, which reduces the aesthetics
For Small Pets, Training Kennel and Travel Transport Cage for Dogs and Cats.
The Easyology Pet Playpen is a collapsible cat enclosure that provides cats with the opportunity to play, rest, or relax safely and soundly. The enclosure also makes the perfect kitty sleeping or playhouse.
This enclosure is also a great way to protect your cat from any potential danger outside. Some cats like to enjoy the great outdoors, but this may not be the case for all cats.
13. Ruff 'n Ruffus Portable Foldable Pet Playpen + Carrying Case & Collapsible Travel Bowl
The Ruff n’Ruffus travel kennel is a great option for pet owners looking for a space-friendly way to contain and transport pets.
This kennel is very simple, and very easy to setup. It’s basically a pop-up tent, and it comes with a removable rain cover. The tent poles are all made from metal, and the carrying handle is made of plastic.
The tent comes with a mesh roof, and mesh walls. The top of the tent has an extra-large flap that can be used to provide shade for your pet. This is especially great if your pet has a thick coat. The bottom of the tent has a zippered flap that can be used for a doggie door to let your pet inside.
14. Wildwhiskers Outdoor Feline Funhouse
Hopping, skittering, and stalking – you’d be surprised at how many hours you can spend watching your cat play. That is, until they catch themselves a bird or some other poor animal. The Wildwhiskers Outdoor Feline Funhouse is just the thing to give your cat a safe place to play outdoors, without compromising your home.
Made from long lasting, heavy duty plastic, this creates a fully enclosed tunnel that is perfect for larger felines. It has a total run of up to 23 square feet. It will withstand the forces of nature, from the hot summer sun to heavy snowfall.
Dust and UV resistant, this tunnel is designed to withstand cats of any size, but is especially great for large breeds. And those with “high prey instincts.”
15. Fabulous Pet Portable Doggie
For people with pets – especially outdoor animals – it’s very important to keep them protected at all times from other stray animals and from harsh weather conditions.
Especially when you go camping or even to a public park, you have to ensure that your pet is safe and protected from all the elements around. This is why some pet owners choose to purchase portable pet pens instead of taking their pets outdoors. These portable pet pens are easy and simple to set up, giving your pet a safe place to go to if he feels like he wants to be outdoors.
But what we’ve heard from some of the customers who have purchased portable pet pens is that they are a little on the expensive side. But with this Pet Playpen from Fabulous, you get excellent quality and enough room to fit at least two dogs.
16. Etna Pet Puppy Dog Playpen Exercise Pen Kennel Tent Play Pen Foldable Indoor Outdoor
Are you looking for a no-fuss kennel for your pet? The Etna pet dog playpen is an excellent choice as it is affordable and reliable. This is the best choice that will give your pet the opportunity to stay active.
This dog playpen is ideal for small to medium sized dogs, so your cat will be able to freely move around without being restrained.
The sides are strong and sturdy so your cat won’t be able to escape. The incredibly well-made base is waterproof, sturdy, and it is made of premium materials for added stability. It has a 600D oxford cloth top that gives excellent strength and durability. It’s removable, machine washable, and is soft to touch.
17. Strong Camel Portable Pet Fun House Cat Dog Playpen Feline Funhouse Outdoor Mesh Tent Foldable Exercise Tent
The Strong Camel’s pet oasis is a portable outdoor enclosure, which is perfect for cats that desperately want a change of scenery, but not enough to get a proper outdoor cat enclosure.
The pet oasis comes in four different sizes – small, medium, large, and extra-large. You also get three colors to choose from – red, green, and camo.
Made from a mesh material, this tent is perfect for hunting – which is probably why your cat always looks like it’s about to pounce.
18. PawHut Large Wooden Outdoor Cat House
Pros:
- Safe, secure, protected, and sheltered
- Cheaper alternative to other enclosures
- Free of toxic chemicals
- Solid construction
- Easy assembly
- Pet safety ramp
- Anti-tip walls
- Easy-lift pet house
- Locking doors when not in use
- Breathable roof
Cons:
- The door is tricky to latch back in
- The instructions are hard to follow
- Does not include everything needed
- Does not stay level
- Size is slightly smaller than described
Wood, Assembled.
19. RORAIMA Outdoor use Instant Portable Cat Tent or Habitat
If you’re still worried about how your cat might react to an outdoors-only lifestyle, this cat tent is an excellent starting point. It’s the perfect tool for training if you’re planning to raise your cat outside. You can set it up outside and let your cat explore without worrying about him or her running away.
The tent is made from premium waterproof oxford fabric, which means it’s durable and can hold up against the elements. The hanging mesh panels also allow for ventilation, which is important for keeping your cat cool.
The tent is a bit on the small side, which is great for keeping your cat cozy and safe. However, it’s not very big so it can’t be used out in the open.
20. Petsfit Indoor/Outdoor Cat Enclosure Portable Tent
If you have an outdoor cat and are looking for a way to give your feline friend their own space, the Petsfit Cat Enclosure is the perfect solution.
This lightweight and portable cat enclosure is easy to assemble and easy to clean. It includes a litter box and screening which is strong enough to keep your cat in.
According to the manufacturer, the Petsfit outdoor cat enclosure can hold up to 25 pounds. However, the actual weight limit can vary according to the size of your cat.
21. Pet Gear Travel Lite Portable Play Pen/Soft Crate
Black.
When it comes to the right outdoor cat enclosures, the Pet Gear Travel Lite shines. It’s a great and safe portable kennel for your cat; including the inside of the top. The Travel Lite is constructed from 600D polyester that is both durable and water-resistant.
The best thing about this kennel is that the top can be folded down and converted into a sunshade. This is a fantastic way to help your cat cool down in the summer, especially if they’re sensitive to sun exposure. And if it gets windy or you’re going to be making stops on your journey, you can zip the top back up.
22. Pawdle Deluxe Premium Foldable Portable Traveling Exercise Pet Playpen Kennel Cats
Pros:
- Free-standing patio screen to keep dogs contained in your yard
- Sturdy frame
- Provides an indoor alternative to a crate or cage
- Allows your dog to practice potty training while you're out
- Stands up to outdoor elements
- Comes in your choice of size: small, medium & large
- Easy to assemble
- Free and included stakes to anchor to the ground
- Sunshade cover & bottom
- Total exercise area in 10" X 10" X 10" (3 feet by 3 feet)
Cons:
- It's not a cage, nothing can get in to get the dog out
- Floor pad not recommended for dogs that are going to be in the kennel for long periods of time
- Dog needs to learn to do potty training EXCLUSIVELY outside
Pawdle Deluxe is not just for outdoor use either. You can easily convert it for your dog, and use it indoors as a pet carrier, dog bed, sitting mat, sleeping mat, or a play mat.
23. IRIS Wire Pet Cage/Cat Playpen
This original wire pet cage is the perfect environment for your cat to play, exercise and have unlimited access to fresh air and sunlight, but still remain safe and warm. **DIMENSIONS** …
Designed with your feline’s needs in mind, this spacious bumblebee-inspired Kitty Cabana features a convenient “door-in-door” recessed top door, two moveable side walls and an additional fixed wall for easy access and a safer confinement option.
The double-door enclosure is a great addition. You can open a door from the outside and throw a cat toy in, so that your cat can have hours of fun and entertainment.
24. BestPet Pet Dog Cat Tent Puppy Playpen Exercise Pen
One of the big perks of the BestPet Dog Cat Tent Puppy Playpen Exercise Pen is that it’s simple to put together. The included instructions have good visuals, which makes it simple for veterans as well as novices. It also comes with a handy tool, which makes it easier for you to attach the wires.
The pen comes in three different sizes: 12-inch, 24-inch, and 36-inch. With 12 inches the smallest and 36 inches being the biggest. Each size comes in two colors: blue and orange. The pen is definitely suitable for both smaller and larger pets with the largest size able to accommodate a 70lbs dog.
You can set the pen up indoors or outdoors. One of the key factors that went into the construction of the BestPet Dog Cat Tent Puppy Playpen Exercise Pen is that it doesn’t have any sharp metal or corners. Which means that it’s ideal for indoor or outdoor use.
25. Best Choice Products Pet Puppy Dog Playpen Exercise Pen Kennel 600d Oxford Cloth
Pros:
- Come with a zipped door and a large mesh net
- The roof of the kennel has adjustable sunshade
- The facility has a very attractive and minimalist look
- Comes with an installation guide
- You can access it easily by wheelbarrow or via a ladder
- The floor of the kennel is durable
Cons:
- The plastic used for building the kennel is a little flimsy
- The metal rods used in the facility are rusting and won’t last long
- There is no way to make the enclosure completely secure
When it comes to dogs, it’s crucial to have them secured in a kennel. This is necessary if you want to protect yourself or your property from them, and at the same time provide them with a secure and safe space to play. However, there are a lot of things you need to take into account in order to get the right kennel for your dog.
Like we mentioned before, this pen has a lot of convenience features that should make your dog’s life significantly better and easier. For instance, it comes with a zipped door which enables you to give them fresh air without letting them leave their pen.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do cats like outdoor enclosures?
Whether or not your cats like to be outdoors, an outdoor enclosure is a good option for your cat, especially if you don’t have a lot of space in your home or if you have two or more cats.
While bringing your cat outside in a carrier puts it at a higher risk of getting lost or attacked, taking your cat outside on a leash is safer and gives them a chance to experience and enjoy the outside world.
Can cats live in an outdoor enclosure?
Humans are natural homebodies, so it is only natural that we want to share our homes with our pets. But sometimes, these pets have different ideas. Cats are particularly active at night, and they enjoy spending hours together sunning themselves outside.
If you have a cat who spends too much time outside, you may want to consider placing them in an outdoor pet enclosure. Some cats, especially indoor cats, are more comfortable if they have a “cat room” with total control over when they come and go.
Any space that your cat spends a lot of time in should be safe and free of drafts. Some cats prefer a completely enclosed area, but other cats feel less secure in an enclosed space and may become anxious or stressed.
Enclosing your cat but adding a screen between your yard and your house will give your cat a feeling of having access to the outdoors but still keep them safe and unharmed.
What is the best outdoor cat house?
While cats are known for being indoor animals, with the right safety precautions and the right conditions, letting your cat outside can be extremely beneficial to their personality, health and happiness. When letting your cat outside, you need to make sure that they have a safe, secure place to do it in. They shouldn’t be allowed to roam free without any type of protection. The best outdoor cat enclosures are the ones that your felines will enjoy quite a bit, and give them a secure place to feel safe and warm when they need to. You do have options to enhance the outdoor cat enclosure to create a safe and fun place that the kitty will enjoy. You can add fun little toys, a scratching post, and even a bed.
What can I put in my outdoor cat enclosure?
You can simply place the cat litter box, food bowl and water dispenser in the indoor enclosure. But for your own convenience, it is best to utilize the services of one of the Kitty Klitter ’s litter box and other items for your outdoor cat.
Conclusion
Cat enclosures don’t have to be big or inconvenient to use. In fact, some of them are specifically designed to be compact, so that your cats don’t feel restricted and they can still have room to play and scratch their claws.
There are a lot of enclosures and outdoor cat houses to choose from, all which have different features that can make them a good candidate. But when you narrow it down to the best, it comes down to a few things that we’ve covered in this article.
Our Recommendation
| Name | Category | Product |
|---|---|---|
| Nala and Company | Best Overall | |
| Strong Camel Portable Pet Fun House Cat Dog Playpen Feline Funhouse Outdoor Mesh Tent Foldable Exercise Tent | Budget Pick | |
| PawHut Large Wooden Outdoor Cat House | Upgrade Pick | |