Â
This step by step diy project is about insulated cat house plans plans. I have designed this outdoor cat house so you can protect your favorite furry pets from the elements. The cat house is built on a platform, so the cats can climb it and also be protected from other animals. Take a look over the rest of my woodworking plans, if you want to get more building inspiration.
When buying the lumber, you should select the planks with great care, making sure they are straight and without any visible flaws (cracks, knots, twists, decay). Investing in cedar or other weather resistant lumber is a good idea, as it will pay off on the long run. Use a spirit level to plumb and align the components, before inserting the galvanized screws, otherwise the project won’t have a symmetrical look. If you have all the materials and tools required for the project, you could get the job done in about a day. See all my Premium Plans HERE.
Â
Â
Projects made from these plans
Â
Â
Insulated Cat House Plans
Â
Cut & Shopping Lists
- A – 2 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 24″ long, 3 pieces – 25″ long FRAME
- B – 2 pieces of 3/4″ plywood – 24″x28″ long FLOOR
- C – 2 pieces of polystyrene foam sheet – 9 3/4″x25″ long INSULATION
- D – 4 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 16″ long LEGS
- E – 5 pieces of 2×2 lumber – 11″ long, 1 piece – 24″ long, 1 piece – 15″ long, 1 piece – 3″ long, 1 piece – 6″ long FRONT WALL
- E – 2 pieces of 2×2 lumber – 24″ long, 3 pieces – 11″ long BACK WALL
- E – 2 pieces of 2×2 lumber – 17″ long, 3 pieces – 11″ long 2xSIDE WALLS
- G – 2 pieces of 1/2″ plywood – 14″x20″ long, 2 pieces – 23 3/4″x25″ long WALLS
- H – 4 pieces of 2×2 lumber – 20″ long RAFTERS
- 3 piece of 2×4 lumber – 8′
- 1 piece of 3/4″ plywood – 4’x8′
- 1 piece of 1/2″ plywood – 4’x8′
- 6 pieces of 2×2 lumber – 8′
- polystirene foam sheets
- 1 1/2″ brad nails, 2 1/2″ screws, 1 5/8″ screws
- wood filler , wood glue, stain/paint
Tools
 Hammer, Tape measure, Framing square, Level
 Miter saw, Drill machinery, Screwdriver, Sander
 Safety Gloves, Safety Glasses
Time
Related
- PART 1: Insulated cat house plans
- PART 2: Cat house roof plans
Â
Â
Â
Â
Building a cat house
The first step of the project is to build the frame for the floor. Cut the components from 2×4 lumber, using the information from the diagram. Drill pilot holes through the rim joists and insert 2 1/2″ screws into the perpendicular components. Make sure the corners are square and add glue to the joints for a professional result.
Fit polystyrene foam sheets between the frame of the floor, as shown in the diagram. Make sure you fit several layers of the polystyrene, as a better thickness will ensure a better insulation for the floor of the cat house.
Next, you need to seal the floor with 1/2″ plywood sheets. Align the edges with attention, drill pilot holes and secure the sheet into place with 1 5/8″ screws.
Next, you need to attach the 2×4 legs to the frame of the floor. Use a spirit level to plumb the legs when attaching them to the floor frame. Drill pilot holes through the top of the legs and secure them to the floor using 2 1/2″ screws.
Â
Building the wall frames
Build the front wall frame from 2×2 lumber. Drill pilot holes and insert 2 1/2″ screws to lock everything together, as shown in the plans. Make sure the corners are square and check if the edges are flush. Add glue to the joints to enhance the bond of the components.
Build the two side walls in the same manner described above. Drill pilot holes and insert 2 1/2″ screws to lock everything tightly. Add glue to the joints and make sure the corners are square.
Build the back wall from 2×2 lumber. Drill pilot holes through the plates and insert 2 1/2″ screws to lock the components together.
Fit the wall frames to the floor of the cat house, as shown in the plans. Drill pilot holes through the bottom plates and insert 2 1/2″ screws into the floor. In addition, lock the adjacent walls together by drilling pilot holes and inserting 2 1/2″ screws.
Fit 1/2″ plywood to the sides of the cat house. Align the edges with attention and secure them to the framing with 8d nails.
Â
Building the roof
Build the rafters for the cat house from 2×2 lumber. Cut one ends of the rafters at 55 degrees, by making a 35 degree cuts. In addition, you need to cut out a birds mouth in the rafters, so they can be secure to the top plates tightly.
Fit the rafters to the wall frames, as shown in the plans. Drill pilot holes through the rafters and insert 2 1/2″ screws to lock them together tightly. Leave no gaps between the components for a neat result.
Build the front wall from 1/2″ plywood, using the information from the diagram. Cut out the door opening for a professional result. Smooth the edges with sandpaper and secure the walls into place with 8d nails.
Build the back wall in the same manner and secure it to the frame with 8d nails, after aligning the edges with attention.
Make sure you read PART 2 of the project, so you learn how to build the roof for the outdoor cat house. In PART 2 I will show you for to install insulation in the walls, as well into the roof.
This is a simple project you should be able to build in a few days without much effort. This insulated cat house is a must have project if you want to protect your favorite pets from cold weather. Take a look over the rest of the woodworking project I feature on the site, for even more building inspiration.
Building an insulated cat house will likely cost you between $100 and $300, depending on the materials you choose and the level of insulation you want. Using quality wood, insulation panels, and weatherproofing materials will increase the cost but ensure that your cat stays warm and cozy, even in colder weather. It’s a small investment for your pet’s comfort and well-being, giving them a safe, comfortable space to call their own.
You can complete an insulated cat house in about one weekend, depending on the complexity of the design and your experience level. With a straightforward plan, you can cut, assemble, insulate, and finish the house in a couple of days. It’s a quick project that provides lasting comfort and protection for your cat.
As you put the finishing touches on your insulated cat house, take a step back and appreciate the cozy, protective space you’ve created for your furry friend. This project isn’t just about building a shelter; it’s about giving your cat a warm, safe haven where they can relax and feel secure, no matter the weather. In the end, you’ve crafted something that shows how much you care, and your cat is sure to love their new home.
Â
Â
This woodworking project was about insulated cat house plans free. If you want to see more outdoor plans, check out the rest of our step by step projects and follow the instructions to obtain a professional result.
Â
Â
Â
3 comments
We are looking for companies who will be willing to donate a couple outdoor cat houses to our small 501 cat rescue. Thanking you in advance.
What are the overall inside dimensions of the finished insulated cat house?
i learn so great so i want to thank you for given us that information