If your indoor cat is always curling too close to the fireplace, you need to find a safer solution to keep your pet warm. Or, if you have a free-roaming cat who spends most of its time outdoors, a warm house would be a great help, especially during cold nights. If this is you, a heated cat house is the solution.
Heated cat houses provide shelter and comfort for cats. Some models are ideal for indoors, outdoors, or both. Indoor heated cat houses are made of premium plush materials like faux fur and fleece, while electric weather-resistant and insulated shelters are perfect for indoor and outdoor use.
Although there are numerous products available in the market, not all can be categorized as the best-heated cat houses. A great heated cat house should be warm, safe, waterproof, and insulated so your pet remains cozy during chilly nights. This review includes the 10 best cat houses that meet the above criteria and more.
A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites (Updated in 2023)
Image Product Details
Best Overall
K&H Outdoor Heated Kitty House
Easy assembly
MET safety tested
Holds two cats at once
Check Price
Best Value
Thermo Kitty Hooded Cat Bed
Easy machine wash
Removable hood offers privacy
Thermostatically controlled heater
Check Price
Premium Choice
Petyella Heated Cat House
Timer
Chew-proof cord
Waterproof heating pad
Check Price
Best for Kittens
Pet Magasin Self Warming Cat Cave
Luxuriously warm
It complements any home décor
Configurable into different shapes
Check Price
K&H Heated A-Frame Cat House
Two exits
Easy storage
Energy efficient 20 watts
Check Price
The 10 Best Cat Heated Cat Houses
K&H has garnered a reputation for making comfortable, safe, soothing, and eco-friendly heated cat houses. Their products are tested and certified by MET Labs to ensure they meet electrical safety standards, which applies to this OK&H Products Outdoor Heated Kitty House.
Size: 22 x 18 x 17 inches
Features: Heated, Removable bed, Outdoor
Assembly: Yes
Material: Nylon, Vinyl
Check Price on Chewy
With a 600-denier nylon plus a vinyl backing, the house is water-resistant and can be used in porches, barns, and garages. It features a 20-watt heated bed to keep your pet cuddly warm, particularly in sub-zero temperatures.
But that’s not to say this kitty house cannot be used indoors. On the contrary, you can have your pet sleeping in it in the cold seasons then remove the heated pad during summer. The house features two exits so your cat can run in and out without being trapped by predators.
The K&H Outdoor Heated Kitty House is large, heated, durable, and weather resistant. This is why we recommend it as the best overall heated cat house.
Pros
Holds two cats at once
Durable
Easy assembly
For indoor and outdoor use
MET safety tested
Cons
Frames feel flimsy
Overall, we found the K&H Thermo Kitty Hooded Cat Bed to be the best-heated cat house for the money. It features a thermostatically controlled electric cat bed that automatically responds to changes in temperature. Whenever your pet steps into this unit, it automatically responds to your cat’s 102-degree internal temperature then runs on Eco-mode as soon as it leaves.
Holds two cats at once
Durable
Easy assembly
For indoor and outdoor use
MET safety tested
- Holds two cats at once
- Durable
- Easy assembly
- For indoor and outdoor use
- MET safety tested
Frames feel flimsy
- Frames feel flimsy
Size: 20 x 20 x 14 inches
Features: Heated, Machine-washable
Assembly: No
Material: Fleece, Polyfill
The cat bed uses a 4-watt energy-efficient heater. This low wattage heater is tested and certified to meet and exceed USA/CA electrical safety standards by MET Labs. It warms the bed 10 to 15 degrees above the air temperature in the immediate environment.
For extra comfort, this cat bed has 6-inch tall and 20-inches wide soft, foam walls. Meanwhile, your cat sleeps on a soft, premium, microfleece base for a cozy and warm experience. If your pet enjoys privacy, add the hood to create a kitty cave.
Pros
Easy machine wash
Removable hood offers privacy
Thermostatically controlled heater
Low wattage heater
Exceeds USA/CA electrical safety standards
Cons
May have a strong chemical odor
4-watt heater is small for a 20-inch wide cat bed
The Petyella Heated Cat House is a stylish, beautiful, and innovative model that resembles a little dollhouse. This unit will add style and beauty to your home whether you use it indoors or outdoors.
Easy machine wash
Removable hood offers privacy
Thermostatically controlled heater
Low wattage heater
Exceeds USA/CA electrical safety standards
- Easy machine wash
- Removable hood offers privacy
- Thermostatically controlled heater
- Low wattage heater
- Exceeds USA/CA electrical safety standards
May have a strong chemical odor
4-watt heater is small for a 20-inch wide cat bed
- May have a strong chemical odor
- 4-watt heater is small for a 20-inch wide cat bed
Size: 17.3 x 13 x 17 inches
Features: Heated, Outdoor, Timer, Chew-proof cord
Assembly: Yes
Material: Nylon denier fabric
The included heating pad offers consistent heating with a maximum temperature of 122 degrees Fahrenheit. The heating pad comes with a removable, soft, cozy cover for easy cleaning. The heated house also features a 3.3 ft. chew-proof cord with a 13.1 ft. extension cord and a timer.
Setting up the heated house is pretty easy. The Velcro attachments facilitate speedy assembly in under five minutes.
The house is made of water-resistant materials to protect stray and feral cats against the elements. Nevertheless, the manufacturer cautions against placing the house in the rain since the opening flaps are not waterproof.
Pros
Waterproof heating pad
Timer
Chew-proof cord
Easy assembly
Stylish
Cons
Pricey
It needs an overhead cover when placed outdoors
If you are worried about buying an electrically heated cat house for your kitten, consider the Pet Magasin Self-Warming Cat Cave.
Waterproof heating pad
Timer
Chew-proof cord
Easy assembly
Stylish
- Waterproof heating pad
- Timer
- Chew-proof cord
- Easy assembly
- Stylish
Pricey
It needs an overhead cover when placed outdoors
- Pricey
- It needs an overhead cover when placed outdoors
Size: 22 x 17 x 17 inches
Features: Machine washable, Heated
Assembly: No
Material: Faux fur, Microfiber, Fabric
This unique cushion can serve as a snuggly pod, flat lounge, a burrito-like cave, or a fur-lined cup, thanks to its microfiber outer shell, faux-fur interior, and fleece-foam padding. Regardless of how you configure it, this bed will always work as a luxuriously warm and plush haven for your kitten to burrow in, curl up, or stretch out on.
The cave is foldable for easy storage and features an anti-bacterial, microfiber exterior. Its design and quality look complements any home décor.
Pros
Affordable
Configurable into different shapes
Luxuriously warm
It complements any home décor
For kittens, cats, and small dogs
Cons
The interior is poorly sewn
Floppy
If you are looking for a water-resistant heated cat house for indoor and outdoor use, get the K&H Products Heated A-Frame Cat House. With over 20 years of experience, K&H is all about designing quality and innovative products to improve the lives of pets.
Affordable
Configurable into different shapes
Luxuriously warm
It complements any home décor
For kittens, cats, and small dogs
- Affordable
- Configurable into different shapes
- Luxuriously warm
- It complements any home décor
- For kittens, cats, and small dogs
The interior is poorly sewn
Floppy
- The interior is poorly sewn
- Floppy
Size: 18 x 14 x 14 inches
Features: Heated, Outdoor, Removable bed
Assembly: Yes
Material: Nylon, PVC
This cat house features a waterproof 600 denier material and an A-frame design to shield your cat from elements like rain, snow, and wind. You can safely place it in barns, porches, or garages.
The house comes with a super-cushioned and weatherproof floor to keep your pet warm. This thermostatically controlled patented floor runs on 20 watts and works even in sub-zero temperatures. The internal thermostat automatically adjusts the temperature to meet your cat’s internal body temperature.
You can use this cat house all year round. The orthopedic heated floor works perfectly during the winter months to keep your kitty warm. However, you can remove and store it during summer.
The A-frame heated cat house is available in gray and black color options.
Pros
Energy efficient 20 watts
Weatherproof
Two exits
Easy storage
Outdoor and indoor use
Cons
Quite small for some cats
- Extreme Consumer Products Cat Heated House
Check Latest Price
Size: 22 x 18 x 17 inches
Features: Heated
Assembly: Yes
Material: Fabric
Are you looking for a stylish heated cat house? Get the Extreme Consumer Products Indoor/Outdoor Cat Heated House. Its black roof and red base design offer privacy and protection to indoor and outdoor cats. Besides, it is a perfect fit for small dog breeds.
Energy efficient 20 watts
Weatherproof
Two exits
Easy storage
Outdoor and indoor use
- Energy efficient 20 watts
- Weatherproof
- Two exits
- Easy storage
- Outdoor and indoor use
Quite small for some cats
- Quite small for some cats
Check Latest Price
Size: 22 x 18 x 17 inches
Features: Heated
Assembly: Yes
Material: Fabric
This kitty house features a 20-watt heated bed to keep your pet’s temperature in check during winter. On the warmer nights, unplug the power cord so your cat can sleep cozily on the plush pillow. Alternatively, you can remove the cat bed to create an entertaining spot for your furry friend.
The Extreme Consumer Cat Heated House is easy to clean. Use water and non-abrasive soap to keep the house looking great.
Pros
Easy assembly
Stylish design
For cats and small dogs
Easy to clean
Cozy and warm
Cons
Poor quality zips
Not waterproof
The Jespet Foldable Condo Cat Bed does not use an electrical plug-in to warm your cat. Instead, it features two reversible cushions with two design options. Use the breathable linette during summer and the soft, cuddly plush in the cold months.
Easy assembly
Stylish design
For cats and small dogs
Easy to clean
Cozy and warm
- Easy assembly
- Stylish design
- For cats and small dogs
- Easy to clean
- Cozy and warm
Poor quality zips
Not waterproof
- Poor quality zips
- Not waterproof
Size: 15.5 x 25.5 x 15 inches
Features: Heated
Assembly: No
Material: Faux fur, Polyfill. Wood, Linette fabric, Felt
This condo’s design features two floors: a cat cube and a cat bed. This means it can hold two cats at once, thanks to its sturdy construction.
The cat bed provides a perfect space for lounging, playing, and sleeping for all sizes of cats. If you are worried about your kitty clawing into the condo, it turns out that the felt, linette fabric, and wood panels are designed to withstand that.
The unit comes in a foldable design for easy assembly. You can also collapse it for quick storage. In terms of cleaning, this cat house is hand washable.
Pros
Foldable and lightweight
Durable
Sturdy
Two reversible cushions
Creates vertical territory
Cons
Terrible odor
Not scratch-proof
- Frisco Indoor Heated Cat House
Check Latest Price
Size: 18.5 x 14.5 x 16.5 inches
Features: Heated, Removable bed
Assembly: Yes
Material: Nylon
The Frisco Indoor Heated Cat House provides a restful and private place for your kitty to relax as well as a heated place for cold months. It comes with an electric heating pad, plus an ETL-certified power adapter with 110-inch power and 100-240V input and DC output.
Foldable and lightweight
Durable
Sturdy
Two reversible cushions
Creates vertical territory
- Foldable and lightweight
- Durable
- Sturdy
- Two reversible cushions
- Creates vertical territory
Terrible odor
Not scratch-proof
- Terrible odor
- Not scratch-proof
Size: 18.5 x 14.5 x 16.5 inches
Features: Heated, Removable bed
Assembly: Yes
Material: Nylon
Although this unit is an indoor heated cat house, it is made of weatherproof materials. The outer shell is a water-resistant 600-denier oxford fabric and waterproof nylon. Moreover, you can remove the heated pad in the warmer months to create a cool pad.
You need no tools to set up this model. Simply set the panels in place, secure them with fasteners, and have the heated cat house ready to use.
Pros
Durable materials
Weatherproof and water-resistant
Cozy
For all-year-round use
Machine-washable fleece cover
Cons
Unsuitable for outdoor use
- Furhome Collective Heated Cat Houses
Check Latest Price
Size: 20 x 18 x 18 inches
Features: Heated, Elevated, Timer, Chew-proof cord
Assembly:
Material: Faux fur, PVC
The Furhome Collective Heated Cat House guarantees that your pet will stay warm and dry throughout the year. With its elevated design and waterproof base, the shelter protects outdoor cats from ground moisture for a dry experience.
Durable materials
Weatherproof and water-resistant
Cozy
For all-year-round use
Machine-washable fleece cover
- Durable materials
- Weatherproof and water-resistant
- Cozy
- For all-year-round use
- Machine-washable fleece cover
Unsuitable for outdoor use
- Unsuitable for outdoor use
Size: 20 x 18 x 18 inches
Features: Heated, Elevated, Timer, Chew-proof cord
Assembly:
Material: Faux fur, PVC
It sits 2 inches above the ground, which allows water to flow underneath. Nevertheless, the manufacturer recommends setting up the heated cat house in a sheltered area.
In addition to the waterproof base, the roof and walls are waterproof too. They are made of high-quality waterproof fabric, making this elevated house perfect for a barn, porch, or garage.
The shelter comes with a heated pad to keep your pet warm through the night. The furnished pet bed has a luxuriously padded faux fur cover for extra comfort and warmth.
There are two exits with clear PVC door covers for added insulation. This model also comes with a 24-hour timer that saves you money, plus a chew-proof cord.
Pros
Easy to assemble
Elevated design
Waterproof base, roof, and walls
Sturdy
Insulated
Cons
Small for some adult cats
Pricey
K&H goes a step further to design a modern thermostatically controlled heated pet bed with this unit. This 4-watt pod automatically senses your pet’s weight to keep cats and small dogs warm on those cold nights. Alternatively, you can remove the heater during the warm seasons to keep your cat comfortable.
Easy to assemble
Elevated design
Waterproof base, roof, and walls
Sturdy
Insulated
- Easy to assemble
- Elevated design
- Waterproof base, roof, and walls
- Sturdy
- Insulated
Small for some adult cats
Pricey
- Small for some adult cats
- Pricey
Size: 22 x 22 x 11.5 inches
Features: Heated, Machine-washable
Assembly: No
Material: Polyester
Thermo-mod Cat Dream Pod features a rugged and water-resistant 600D nylon exterior, while the interior is plush lycra with a super-soft, polyfill pillow. This construction ensures your pet stays warm and cozy all winter long.
The pod has a large opening for easy entry and exit. Assembly is pretty easy since you only have to zip it together to create a dome.
Pros
Ideal for all seasons
4-watt heater is gentle
Thermostatically controlled
Meets safety standards
For cats and small dogs
Cons
It may have a chemical smell
Ideal for all seasons
4-watt heater is gentle
Thermostatically controlled
Meets safety standards
For cats and small dogs
- Ideal for all seasons
- 4-watt heater is gentle
- Thermostatically controlled
- Meets safety standards
- For cats and small dogs
It may have a chemical smell
- It may have a chemical smell
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Heated Cat House
Types of Heated Cat Houses
There are three main types of heated cat houses:
Electric vs. Self-Heated
Cat houses are either self-heated or electric to generate heat. Self-heated cat houses do not require an outlet as they are made from materials that retain a cat’s body heat. They are typically safe, even though some pet owners complain that they produce sufficient warmth during winter.
Electrically heated cat houses feature a heating pad to generate heat. They need a power outlet and power cord to work and can be used indoors or outdoors.
Indoor vs. Outdoors
Some heated cat houses are made of simple fabrics like fleece and faux fur for indoor use. Others are designed with water-resistant materials to shield pets from wind, rain, and snow while outdoors. Nevertheless, even though a product is weather-resistant, it is best to position it in a sheltered spot for longevity.
Single vs. Multi-Cat Capacity
Some cat houses hold a single feline, while others can simultaneously fit several kitties at once.
Benefits of a Cat Heated House
If you are unsure about getting a heated cat house, here are three ways your cat will benefit from one.
It is Therapeutic
Many veterinarians recommend using a heated cat house to help senior adults relieve joint pain and aches, especially if they are arthritic. A heated house helps maintain a cat’s body temperature of 102 degrees. It also speeds up recovery in recuperating felines.
Boosts Immunity
Did you know that prolonged exposure to low temperatures can affect your cat’s immune system? Cats need to stay warm to prevent them from catching colds or other illnesses.
Fortunately, heated cat houses provide warmth even during the cold months, which helps prevent and fight illnesses. In addition to boosting immunity, a heated house also improves your pet’s temperament.
Provides a Sense of Companionship
The warmth from a heated cat house reminds your pet of curling up on your lap or with another pet. Cat houses prevent felines from feeling lonely.
Features to Look for in a Heated Cat House
Weather Resistant Materials
When looking for an outdoor heated cat house, prioritize models with weather-resistant materials. Check whether the house is waterproof or water-resistant.
Even after sheltering the heated cat house in a shed or garage, you may have occasional raindrops pouring from the sides. In this case, it would be best to have a water-resistant and heated cat house so that your cat stays dry.
Independent Safety Label
Safety should also be a priority when investing in a heated cat house. Therefore, check whether the product has a MET safety mark or from Underwriters Laboratories (UL) label before purchase. These safety labels assure you that the product has been tested and meets electrical safety standards and accreditations.
Thermostat
You may want to invest in a heated cat house that gives you control to make temperature settings based on the weather. A thermostat gives you the control to choose a temperature setting, so it is not too high. This gives you peace of mind that your pet is comfortable and safe.
Size and Shape
Cats enjoy spending their day curled up on a warm surface. Therefore, look for a heated cat house that is large enough for your cat size. If possible, the house should allow your cat to enter, turn, then curl up.
It should also be well-insulated to help your cat maintain its body heat. If yours is a multi-cat household, find a model that fits more than one cat.
Interior Padding
Choose a heated cat house with interior padding, as it will keep your feline comfortable. It is impossible to add extra cushions and blankets in some models due to safety reasons. In such cases, ensure that the included interior padding is adequate.
Power Cord
Depending on where you want to position the heated cat house, ensure the power cord has the appropriate length. You wouldn’t want to find yourself with an extra budget for purchasing an extension. However, some manufacturers include a free extension cord during purchase, which is a bonus.
Maintenance
Forego heated houses that need great caution and care during maintenance. Opt for those that are hand or machine washable. It is best to purchase a low-maintenance cat house, considering that the covers will collect fur and debris.
Easy Entry
If you have a senior cat, an arthritic cat, or one recovering from illness or surgery, look for an easy entry heated cat house. This will allow your pet to enter and exit the house effortlessly.
Timer
Although timers are not always present in all heated cat house models, they give you control over when to turn off the heating element. This is particularly helpful for pet owners who find themselves away from home and unable to monitor the heat.
Assembly
Some heated cat houses require tools for assembly, while others are foldable, have velcro, zips, or straps for easy assembly. Depending on your cat’s needs, check whether the product is complicated to assemble.
Price
Of course, the price tag is an important feature to consider when purchasing anything. Self-heated cat houses are the most affordable. However, they may only fit a single cat and may not have adequate heat if placed outside during cold months.
On the other hand, electrically heated cat houses are quite expensive but are suitable for indoor and outdoor use. Most are weather-resistant and shield felines from strong wind, rain, and snow.
Related Questions
Are Heated Cat Houses Safe?
The safest heated cat houses are self-heated. These reflect your cat’s body heat to generate heat.
Electrically heated houses have sufficient heat but can become a fire hazard in case of poor wiring. Luckily, most models use as low as 4 watts of electricity. In addition, most electric-heated houses are tested and have a UL label or MET safety mark.
Which Cats Should Not Use a Heated Cat House?
An electrically heated cat house is not suitable for cats who cannot get out of the heated pad and house by themselves. For this reason, consult your vet before getting a house for your kitten, senior cat with limited mobility, or those recovering from illness or surgery.
What Temperature is too Cold for a Cat?
Temperatures below 45 degrees Fahrenheit are too cold for felines. In such cases, allow the cat to stay warm indoors or get a heated cat house.
Conclusion
Heated cat houses are a worthy investment as they keep cats safe, warm, and toasty during the cold seasons. We recommend the Outdoor Heated Kitty House as it is water-resistant for outdoor use. It features a 20-watt heated pad to keep your feline warm.
The Petyella Heated Cat House is another ideal product as it incorporates quality, beauty, and innovation. It features a waterproof PVC base, a heating pad, and removable doors for an outdoor cat shelter. Besides, it is perfect for cats under 25 pounds.
If you are looking for a self-heating cat house, the Pet Magasin Self-Warming Cat Cave is your best bet. You can customize it as an upright cup, a flat lounge, a burrito-like cave, or a snuggly pod.
We hope this review helps you narrow down your options to find the best-heated cat house for your kitty.
Featured Image Credit: Chewy
See also:
- 10 Best Cat Ear Cleaners in 2022 – Reviews & Top Picks
- 5 Best Glucose Meter for Cats in 2022 – Reviews & Top Picks
- 10 Best Cat Strollers in 2022 – Reviews & Top Picks
