1. K&H Pet 3993
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Specifications:
- Use: Indoor/Outdoor
- Dimensions: 18″ × 22″ × 17″
- Opening Size: 6″ × 8″
- Product Weight: 4.8 lbs.
- Materials: Vinyl, 600 Denier Nylon
- Capacity: 2 Small Cats
- Entryways: 2
- Weather Resistance:
- Heated:
- Color Options: Red / Gray / Olive / Camouflage / Blue
- Styles: Barn / Cottage / Log Cabin / Realtree Edge
- Features: 15″ Highest Point Interior Height, Washable Faux Fleece Cover for the Heating Pad, Roof Overhang, Front& Rear Clear Door Flaps, 5.5′ Cable, Tool-free Assembly
- Warranty: Limited 1 Year
The first model comes from K&H Pet and it is ideal for either indoor or outdoor use, because it incorporates the Lectro-Soft pad which can offer a constant heat source. This 4.8-pound product will keep your kitten warm, and, if it happens to be a pet that prefers hanging out outdoors, you will sleep better knowing that it can have a roof over its head whenever it is needed. The 20-watt pad measures 14 by 18 inches and it comes with a 5.5-foot long cord that is controlled by an inner pre-set thermostat.
Build & Features
Size-wise, you’re looking at a
18 by 22-inch footprint with a 17-inch height build made of
vinyl and 600-denier nylon to ensure it
weatherproof quality alongside its long-lasting durability. A slight
overhang of the roof adds to the protection against unfavorable weather. Depending on how big your pet is, the capacity will likely allow for
one average cat or two small ones. You won’t need any tools to assemble it, seeing how the only things you need to do are to zip the roof and connect the inner loop fasteners to the hooks. Another handy feature are the
two 6 by 8-inch entryways, completed by
clear detachable flaps, which do the job of preserving the heat and also offering the animal two escape routes, should they be needed. Something to be mentioned is that strong winds might open the flaps a bit and let rain in, so you can decide to keep or remove and store them until you feel they’re needed. Every element can be easily cleaned, including its heated floor, which features a
removable and washable faux fleece cover.
Versatility
When it comes to the design, you can choose from four different styles to match your home’s décor, and those are
barn, which is predominantly red with a white roof,
cottage, which is light blue with a gray roof,
log cabin, which is brown with a forest green roof, or
realtree edge, with a camouflage pattern and a black roof. There are also three simpler options available,
red with a black roof,
gray with a black roof, or
full olive. For even more versatility, the 3993 comes not only with several color and style options for you to select from but also with two versions for heating, as
the pad is optional. Thus, you can acquire one with a pad if your climate deems it mandatory, or one without, to offer year-round comfort for your cat. Lastly, the product has a
1-year warranty from the first day of your purchase.
K&H Pet’s 3993 was a purchase we made about one week ago after a little stray had decided that she’s not going to leave our ranch any time soon. Our weather is still relatively acceptable during the day but at night it keeps getting colder and colder, with rain becoming more prevalent, so I knew that she needed a sheltered space to call her own, especially when we’re not home to allow her access to the hallway. After this little house arrived, I put it together in less than 5 minutes and it’s a good thing that I opted for the heated version, as the kitten took to it immediately, most likely because of last Monday’s temperature dropping down to 21 degrees. I did have Kevin help me with preparing a wooden stand for our porch to put the shelter on, to prevent any water or our other animals from getting inside. I also tied a space blanket over it to keep in as much heat as possible. Seeing as every day now I find Miss Boots purring away in her little hut, I can confirm that it was a worthy and very useful acquisition.
Jennifer Lee – Expert Reviewer and Product Tester
Pros:
- Easy to maintain
- Zippered roof
- Weather-resistant
- Two entryways
Cons:
- Short cord cable
- The base needs to be elevated to prevent heavy rainfall from getting inside
Verdict:
The 3993 is effortless to put together, clean, and maintain, providing utmost comfort for both you and your pet. It features a weatherproof build, two exists – so your kitty can come and go as it pleases, and an optional heated pad that makes it perfect for use outdoors as well as indoors.
If you happen to have free-range chickens that need to be allowed outside very early in the morning, you can spare yourself from the cold and dark by employing the use of a chicken coop door opener. Most of the models we’ve reviewed have timers or light detectors that initiate the opening mechanism.
2. Petyella Home Sweet Home
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Specifications:
- Use: Indoor/Outdoor
- Dimensions: 18″ × 21″ × 16.5″
- Opening Size: 5.5″ × 7″
- Product Weight: 6.64 lbs.
- Materials: PVC, CNAS-Approved Non-Flammable Insulation
- Capacity: Cats or Dogs under 25 lbs.
- Entryways: 2
- Weather Resistance:
- Heated:
- Color Options: Light Blue / Dark Blue / Wood
- Styles: Brick / Tiles / Wood
- Features: Velcro Installation, Weatherproof, Washable & Soft Cover for the Heating Pad, Pad Heating can be Scheduled, No Overheating (122F Max.), 2 Removable Doors, 16′ Chew-proof Cable
- Warranty: 1 Year
Is your cat the independent, hunter-type that likes to explore the outdoors and rarely spends the night inside? Then this model from Petyella can be your best option to provide adequate shelter, as it is suitable for outdoor use thanks to its
weatherproof build. Furthermore, it includes a
heated waterproof mat that preserves the temperature just right for the cat to feel cozy even during the winter months.
Build & Features
The Home Sweet Home is a
PVC build with non-flammable insulation, with extra padding added on the bottom to provide a cozy surface for the feline to sit on. It is easy to set up due to the
Velcro assembly, a procedure that takes about 5 minutes, and thanks to its lightweight build you won’t have a hard time relocating it either. Its full measurements are an
18 by 21-inch footprint with a 16.5-inch height, adding up to 6.64 pounds in weight. It features
two 5.5 by 7-inch doors with removable flaps that help guard against cold weather and wind, all while making it easy for the cat to enter and exit at will. These dimensions make the hut appropriate
for pets weighing no more than 25 pounds. You can opt for one of the three designs available, those being
brick,
tiles, or
wood, all showing the same friendly sign with the name of the model on it.
Heating System
The mat has a
soft cover that can be washed once it gets dirty and the power cable is
16 feet long in total, to allow you to place the shelter wherever you want, it can withstand temperatures as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit, and
its first 3 feet are also chew-proof, so the cat or other animals can’t destroy it. It even includes a
plug-in timer that saves you money as it lets you choose when the mat should turn on, so it will run only when needed.
The 13 feet that aren’t chew-proof are a conveniently added extension cord, so you won’t have to acquire a separate one for the heated mat to be plugged in and function correctly.
Pros:
- Heating can be scheduled
- Detachable flap doors
- Quick and easy to set up – procedure takes less than 5 minutes
- Long cord cable
Cons:
- Rain can get through the flaps if the product is placed in an unsheltered area
- The flaps can be hard to push
Verdict:
Only the best shelter is good enough for your beloved feline pet, and the Petyella provides the ultimate comfort you seek as it is spacious and comes with a heated mat that keeps the small animal cozy even when outside is chilly.
3. New Age Pet ECTH350
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Specifications:
- Use: Outdoor
- Dimensions: 20″ × 22″ × 20″
- Opening Size: 6.3″ × 6.3″
- Product Weight: 15.2 lbs.
- Materials: ECOFLEX
- Capacity: 2-3 Small Cats
- Entryways: 2
- Weather Resistance:
- Heated:
- Color Options: Cream & Brown
- Styles: Albany
- Features: Moisture-proof, Insect-free, Easy to Clean, Paints and Stains like Wood, Removable Flaps, Removable Roof, Elevated Base, Tool-free Assembly
- Warranty: Limited 10 Years
If you need a sturdier product that can withstand the unpredictable movements of more rambunctious pets, New Age Pet comes with a
15.2-pound answer. The shelter option they offer is made using
ECOFLEX, which is a non-toxic plastic-wood polymer that can deliver a sturdier, more time-resistant, and
weatherproof home compared to those made of wood.
It won’t warp, chip, retain moisture, or get insect damage, and it has an elevated base, so it is especially useful for outdoor environments. It features
two 6.3-inch square entryways, providing your pet with the ability to come and go as it pleases,
one in the front and one on the side. Its full-size measures
20 inches in height, 20 inches in width, and 22 inches in length, thus it won’t take too much yard space but
it will comfortably fit 2 to 3 small cats.
Assembly & Features
A
no-tool assembly permits you to set it up in less than 10 minutes, and you just have to ensure that the panels connect correctly before you link them together. The package contains
removable door flaps to keep insulation as high as possible, but do note that if you place the product in direct sunlight, these flaps might turn a little yellow. Other than that,
the cleaning process is hassle-free, as it requires just a garden hose to spray off any of the dirt that might get on it.
The roof is removable as well to aid with the upkeep. You might want to
place it in a sheltered area with the entries facing away from the direct wind to avoid rain from getting through the flaps. Although there’s no heating system provided, there’s plenty of space inside for you to place a heated pad to add to your pet’s comfort. The style that the ECTH350 comes in is called Albany and the cream and brown combination goes well with most home designs.
You can paint or stain it, too, if you’d like, since this material acts the same way as wood would. As a last detail, this product is accompanied by a generous
limited 10-year warranty from the moment you purchase it.
Pros:
- Easy assembly
- Easy maintenance
- Two entryways
- Weather-resistant
Cons:
- No heating system
- No roof overhang to prevent rain from getting inside the flaps
Verdict:
The ECTH350 is effortless to assemble, as it demands no tools, and it offers you a quick and hassle-free cleaning process. It has two exits, so your pet can come and go as it wants. However, it needs to be placed in a sheltered area, as the roof does not feature an overhang to protect it from heavier rainfall.
4. Trixie 3-Story Cat House
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Specifications:
- Use: Outdoor
- Dimensions: 22″ × 23.2″ × 37″
- Opening Size: 7″ × 7″ Front | 6.5″ × 6.5″ Side
- Product Weight: 30 lbs.
- Materials: Pine
, Composite Asphalt Shingles, Plastic, Metal
- Capacity: 4-6 Small Cats
- Entryways: 2
- Weather Resistance:
- Heated:
- Color Options: Sky Blue & White
- Styles: Barn
- Features: 3-Story, Hinged Shutters with Latch, 2 Perches, 2 Peek-a-Boo Holes, Elevated Base, Plastic Legs, Side Opening Flap
, Large Back Door for Maintenance
- Warranty: 1 Year
Next, we have
an outdoor option that can better suit those with more than one cat, or those who are taking care of a medium-sized feral colony. Trixie has thought out a
30-pound model that
can act both as a sleeping spot and a play arena, for curious, more active members. The 3-story piece features, as it might be obvious from the name,
three separate levels for your little ones to hang out on. The
base level is the main starting point and it has a
6.5-inch square opening that is constantly opened and protected by
plastic strips to keep the bad weather out. The
second level can also be accessed individually, but only if the
7 by 7-inch front opening has the latch opened (something that we recommend, to allow a getaway option), otherwise the kittens can get to it by climbing through the small
square cutout in the floorboard. The
third and final level can only be reached through the
square cutout and it is fitted with
two peek-a-boo windows, one smaller than the other, which can also be latch closed. On the outer side,
two perches provide lookout or sunbathing points.
Build Details
It measures 22 by 23.2 inches in footprint and the full height reaches 37 inches, meaning that the inside
can fit approximately 4 to 6 small cats. The shelter is built using
pine wood for the structure,
composite shingles for the roof,
metal for the latches, and
plastic for the legs that elevate the base to keep pooling water away from the interior. The roof is
rainproof, and if you spray-seal the wood, you will not encounter any issues in the long run. One mentionable aspect is that
there is no heating system provided and no padding, but you could add a safe heating pad on the base, or even on the second level and place a cozy pillow or blanket on the third floor. To make things easier for you as well,
on the back there is a large door that you can open whenever you need to do some maintenance work or clean the space. The only design that this model comes in is a
barn style, meaning a sky blue and white color combination on the wood and brownish-orange on the roof.
Pros:
- Enough space for 3 average-sized cats
- Rainproof roof
- Two entryways
- Elevated base
- Large back door
Cons:
- Installation requires tools and the instruction manual lacks clarity
- No heating system
Verdict:
This Trixie unit can come in handy for those looking to offer sheltered sleeping space for their cats, catering to the needs of both older cats that prefer lower ground and younger or more skittish ones that prefer sleeping higher off the ground.
Are you out of storage space in your backyard? Keeping some tools, like the gardening ones, without a shelter won’t damage them too much, but when it comes to motor-powered tools, you have to have a weatherproof solution. The outdoor storage sheds we’ve reviewed are weather-resistant and they come in all shapes and sizes to help you find the best fit.
5. Trixie 44094
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Specifications:
- Use: Outdoor
- Dimensions: 16.5″ × 20.1″ × 16.9″
- Opening Size: 6.75″ × 9.5″
- Product Weight: 14.02 lbs.
- Materials: Fir
, Composite Asphalt Shingles, Metal
- Capacity: 2 Small Cats
- Entryways: 1
- Weather Resistance:
- Heated:
- Color Options: Light Blue & White
- Styles: Barn
- Features: Opening Panel acts as a Ramp, Panel Slide Lock, Flap
, Elevated Base, Hinged Roof can be Opened, Included Hardware
- Warranty: 1 Year
The second entry from Trixie looks similar to the ECTH350 and it is an
outdoor model as well, but there are some key differences. It is made of
weather-treated, non-toxic, glazed fir wood, completed with
composite shingles, and there’s
only one entryway. It comes with a
16.5 by 20.1-inch footprint and 16.9 inches in height, and it has an
elevated floor for better air circulation and to keep water from getting inside. As mentioned, it only has one opening in the front, measuring
6.75 by 9.5 inches, with a
slide lock panel that can fold down, turning into a
ramp to be used for an easier climb. To add to the interior protection, the opening is fitted with
clear plastic strips. The
hinged roof can be raised to allow access to clean your pet’s space or for an easier way of fitting a heating pad since
a heating system isn’t provided with the product.
The 44094 does require tools for its assembly, but all the hardware you need is included in the package. Once set up, the capacity is of one average cat or two smaller ones. The weather resistance is assured by the rainproof roof and, for added protection, you can add an extra coat of sealant on the exterior of the treated wood. Furthermore, to complement your backyard colors and decor, it comes in a pleasant light blue and white color combination, with a barn style.
Pros:
- Detachable roof
- Panel that doubles as a ramp
- Elevated base
- Eco-friendly
Cons:
- Only one entryway
- No heating system
Verdict:
Made using weather-treated non-toxic wood, the 44094 will last years with little maintenance. The floor is elevated to prevent mold and the door panel acts as a ramp for easy up-and-down. However, once the roof and the front door are completely closed, there is no light or air source, so check the inside if you need to place the shelter in storage.
6. Easyology 1511
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Specifications:
- Use: Indoor
- Dimensions: 15″ × 15″ × 15″
- Opening Size: 8.5″ Diameter
- Product Weight: 5.2 lbs.
- Materials: Non-woven Synthetic, Press Board, Faux Suede
- Capacity: 1 Large Cat or 2 Small Cats
- Entryways: 1
- Weather Resistance:
- Heated:
- Color Options: Brown and Cream
- Styles: Ziggy Den
- Features: Faux Suede Soft Cushioning, Removable Cushion Cover, Washable, Non-toxic, Odor-free, Carry Handle, Can be connected to a cat tunnel
- Warranty: Lifetime
1511 is a
cube-shaped shelter that gives the start to the line of
indoor-only options to use for your house panthers. All three dimensions measure 15 inches, so it provides
plenty of space for one large cat or two little ones to conveniently sit in. Even though it is lightweight enough to make it easy for you to move it from room to room whenever you want to, at only
5.2 pounds (and with a carry handle on the side), it still boasts quite a sturdy construction as opposed to other indoor cubes. The build components are sturdy
pressboard, a non-woven synthetic material, and faux suede to cover it all up and give it a cozy feel for the little paws that will be using it. Since it is made with
non-toxic materials, it does not give off any unpleasant chemical smells. The
thick plush cushioning accentuates the comfort, and it can help with keeping the kitty warm even if there’s no dedicated heating system provided. Though, given that it is an indoor product, the need for extra heat might be unwarranted.
The Ziggy Den has a large, circle opening with an 8.5-inch diameter to allow an easy entry for your pet and a removable roof to allow easy access for you. The exterior is brown, the interior is cream, and both have a suede finish. On the bottom, the extra cushion has a removable cover that is washer-friendly, so you can effortlessly keep the surface on which the cat sits clean without much effort. Furthermore, you can connect it to a three-way tunnel from Easyology to make your feline friend’s experience with it a whole lot more fun and keep the pet happy. The last aspect to mention is the lifetime warranty provided by the manufacturer if you register your product soon after purchasing it.
Pros:
- Thick plush cushion
- Washable
- Non-toxic materials
- Wide opening
- Can be connected to tunnels
Cons:
- It’s not weatherproof
- Only one entryway
Verdict:
The neat cube-shaped 1511 provides your indoor pet with a comfortable and discreet place to rest. The inner plush cushion provides additional coziness, and the opening can be connected to tunnels to supply additional entertainment.
7. MidWest Homes 137-BR
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Specifications:
- Use: Indoor
- Dimensions: 15.5″ × 15.5″ × 16.5″
- Opening Size: 7.3″ × 10″
- Product Weight: 7.2 lbs.
- Materials: Faux Suede, Synthetic Sheepskin
- Capacity: 2 Small Cats
- Entryways: 1
- Weather Resistance:
- Heated:
- Color Options: Mushroom / Gray / Brown
- Styles: Single Story / Double Story
- Features: Folds Flat, Roof Doubles as a Perch, Plush Hanging Balls, Peek-a-Boo Holes
, Cushioned Bed Topper with Stuffed Bolsters, Easy Assembly, Double Story Model features a Sisal Scratching Pad
- Warranty: 1 Year
Designed by MidWest Homes to offer your cat a place where it can lounge during the day and play during the evening, the 137-BR features a hassle-free design with sturdy and durable construction. The cube shape measures
15.5 inches in length and width with 16.5 inches in height, providing your cat with enough space. The extra inch in height comes from the
padded roof that acts as a perching and supervising spot for the curious member of the family. The product is made for
indoor use only, as it is made from
faux suede and synthetic sheepskin. The round entry is
7.3 inches in width and 10 inches in height, allowing mobility for the in-and-out movement. Three designs are available,
mushroom,
gray, or
brown, and each one will integrate seamlessly into any home décor.
The interior features a removable comfort pad, which provides your kitty with a comfortable spot and warmth. The walls sport peek-a-boo cut-outs which can offer enrichment, and if those aren’t enough, the package includes three fluffy bell balls. The structure of the cube is foldable, thus it won’t occupy too much storage space when not in use, enabling you to take it with you on trips, for your feline companion to feel safe even in new environments. What’s more, if one cube is not enough for your furry friend, this model also has a double story version with a sisal scratchpad along its length, which can accommodate two cats at the same time without diminishing their comfort. It includes a limited 1-year manufacturer warranty from the moment of your purchase.
Pros:
- Folds down for storage
- Detachable roof
- Easy to assemble
- Comfortable padding included
Cons:
- It’s not weatherproof
- The padding is thinner than expected
- A customer complained about the bells inside the balls being a claw-catching hazard
Verdict:
The 137-BR offers your kitty a secure place for playing or siestas. This suede cube is foldable, so it won’t occupy too much space, but it requires occasional wiping or vacuuming, as it won’t come apart for washing.
8. SKL Luxury-End Double
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Specifications:
- Use: Indoor
- Dimensions: 21.5″ × 15.5″ × 16.5″
- Opening Size: 8″ × 8″
- Product Weight: 1.7 lbs.
- Materials: Faux Suede, Poly-Foam Lining
- Capacity: Cats or Dogs under 11 lbs.
- Entryways: 1
- Weather Resistance:
- Heated:
- Color Options: Coffee with Dalmatian Roof / Black with Dalmatian Roof
- Styles: House
- Features: Included Bed Mat, Enclosed Design, Detachable Roof, Foldable, Magic Tape Link Assembly
- Warranty: N/A
SKL brings forth a kitty or puppy condo,
specially made for little ones that enjoy burrowing and sleeping in a discreet corner. This spacious bed offers
21.5 inches in length, 15.5 in width, and 16.5 in height, although the roof is taller just above the
8-inch diameter opening. It is super lightweight, at only
1.7 pounds, thanks to the fact that it’s crafted from
faux suede and a poly-foam lining, which offers warmth. Since it is created from soft materials, which are not waterproof, it is suitable for
indoor use only.
Assembling it couldn’t be easier, as the roof attaches with Magic Tape links, so you can quickly take it off and wash it as well. For the interior, it includes a thick inner cushion for increased comfort which can also be washed when it has been through plenty of uses. The structure can be folded for easier storing when it’s not in use. It is available in a coffee or a black color, both with a Dalmatian-colored roof and cushion, which will add a little playfulness to your home décor. It can be used by both dogs and cats alike, as long as they weigh less than 11 pounds.
Pros:
- Detachable roof
- Easy to assemble
- Spacious interior
- Easy maintenance
Cons:
- Not weatherproof
- It will collapse if a pet jumps on it
Verdict:
Spacious and easy to set up, the Luxury-End Double provides your pet with plenty of room to relax. It is made from comfortable materials, but it is not suited for outdoors, as the waterproof quality is lacking.
9. Milliard PT101
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Specifications:
- Use: Indoor/Outdoor
- Dimensions: 18″ × 22″ × 17″
- Opening Size: N/A
- Product Weight: 3.6 lbs.
- Materials: 600 Denier Nylon Canvas
- Capacity: 2 Small Cats
- Entryways: 2
- Weather Resistance:
- Heated:
- Color Options: Light Beige / Olive
- Styles: House
- Features: Detachable Zippered Roof, Removable Flaps, Included Cushion with Fitted Fleece Mat, Hook and Loop Assembly
- Warranty: 1 Year
Last on our list is the final model that’s suitable for both
indoor and outdoor use as it’s made from
600-denier nylon canvas to make it more durable, better insulated, waterproof, but also lightweight. Thanks to its
hook-and-loop mixed with zippered joints installation, you won’t spend too much time assembling it, as it demands no tools. Also, it can be
folded quickly, so it won’t occupy too much storage space and you can even take it camping when you need a designated space for your pet. The footprint on the PT101 is
18 by 22 inches, with a 17-inch height to allow enough space for one bigger cat or two little ones.
This Milliard model features two exits parallel to each other so that your furry friend can come and go on a whim. Said exits sport removable door flaps as well, to keep the elements outside as much as possible. They are transparent, so your cat will be able to observe the outside world and you will be able to see inside, too. Despite it not featuring a heating system, it does come with a padded floor cushion which you can easily take out to wash when needed. Thus, your feline will benefit from comfort while you will be able to maintain its space dirt-free. The design on this piece is simple, namely a light beige or olive exterior with black inner walls.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Easy to assemble
- Durable materials
- Detachable door flaps
Cons:
- If you don’t place it in an elevated and sheltered area it might get flooded
- No heating system
Verdict:
Lightweight but sturdy and durable, the PT101 sports a waterproof concept that will keep your kitty safe from harsh weather. It provides two exits, with transparent removable flaps, a detachable and machine-washable padded floor cushion, and a simple answer to camping trips with your pet.
How To Get Rid Of Cat Urine Odor
Cats are, for the most part, extremely clean animals which spend a lot of time grooming and cleaning themselves. So,
when your cat refuses to use the litter box to relieve itself and instead does so in random corners of your house or on furniture, it means your pet might have a territorial problem, a stress-related problem, or an underlying medical issue. The latter might apply especially if this behavior comes out of the blue. While it is always recommended to take your pet to the vet to make sure that nothing is wrong whenever concerns appear, the issue of eliminating the pungent smell that remains in your house can’t be overlooked either.
As animals tend to reuse the same spot marked before, you must eliminate both the stain and any traces of the smell. Always use a solution made for this specific purpose, which can break down the smells because with regular cleaning products it might just get covered up, and the human nose can’t tell for certain whether or not the scent is gone for good. While it might seem a difficult task at first, it is, in fact, not that hard or challenging. There are several ways in which you can clean up depending on the surface.
Carpets
- Blot the surface with a few folded-up paper towels, until there is no more liquid coming off. If you’re using a wet/dry vacuum to remove the liquid and clean the area, make sure to avoid using any steam-related options, as those will help the stain set into the surface instead of removing it. Next, wash the area with water and use a detergent that contains baking soda or enzymatic additives, as these components will help eliminate the smell.
If you’re going to use an enzymatic spray cleaner, it is best to remove the cap and simply pour the liquid on the stain, enough to cover the affected spot. Give it a few minutes, from 10 to 15, and blot it up as much as possible. If the stain or odor is persistent, you might need to repeat the procedure. As a final step, you can sprinkle enough baking powder over the still-damp area to create a white cover and leave it to act for at least 5 hours, until it dries up, or as long as possible. When it dries up, vacuum it. This will help with the smell as well as pick up the excess moisture.
You can use the same approach if the surface is a cushion or a mattress, with the addition of air drying.
- Usually, these types of materials are machine-washable, so this eases the cleaning process a lot. First, make sure to treat the spot with cold water and soap. Then, place the items in the machine and use detergent, to which you can add baking soda – a cup, or some white vinegar – half a cup. These will enhance the detergent’s ability to clean the stain and reduce the odor. If you notice any odor after the cleaning cycle is done, add the enzymatic cleaner to the detergent and wash them again. Always air-dry them completely before washing them again, because the heat from the drier might make any leftover smell worse.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can cats live outside in the winter?
Yes they can. If they have been living outdoor for all of their life, they will have no problem getting through the winder as long as they can get a relatively constant food source and access to a small, sheltered space to sleep in. Even if they haven’t been strays their whole lives and they, unfortunately, happen to be abandoned or get lost outside, cats tend to adapt fast to their environment and find a safe place to stick to. If they find a welcoming colony and are tended to by one or two people, winter will be no problem.
Are outdoor cat houses safe?
Yes. But you do need to evaluate the space where you choose to place it. Preferably, such a shelter should be placed higher up, as felines tend to feel safer when they are out of reach, and not in direct sunlight or in a place where bad weather can affect it directly.
Do feral cat houses need 2 doors?
Yes, having two doors is something that is more of a necessity than a whim when it comes to stray housing units. It’s recommended that you provide one with openings that are only big enough to allow the animal inside, and not predators as well. But, if certain dangers can manage to squeeze in, the second door will then be godsent. Keep in mind, however, that transparent flaps should be added to keep as much heat inside as possible.
How big should a feral cat house be?
At the very least, a cube with 15-inch dimensions all around. But, seeing as some cats are larger than others, a 20 by 22-inch footprint should be fine for one average-sized stray. Anything bigger should only be used for spaces that have multiple cats because that way they can cuddle together and the heat won’t be lost as easily. However, if you add a heating pad and the container is well-insulated, a larger size won’t be a problem.
How big should the opening be for a feral cat house?
The average opening that a cat can go through without any issues is a 5.5-inch diameter one. But the rule of thumb is that as long as the head can fit, the body will, too (except in the case of obese cats). Keeping the entrance small will deter other animals from wasting their energy to get inside, and it will better keep the heat in.
How do you get a feral cat to use an outdoor shelter?
A few steps to take to coax a cat to use an outdoor shelter are:
- Place the shelter in an elevated area that is also further away from the commotion and safe from the elements. Don’t make it obvious to other people or animals, keep it as hidden as possible.
- Cover the entrance, if possible. Use a waterproof blanket or a tarp to cover the roof and let it dangle a bit over the entrance points to give an even greater feeling of privacy.
- Insulate it well. If the materials allow for heat leaks, find a way to combat that. Add door flaps or surround the closed walls with wood, plastic, rubber, poly-foam, or anything similar that you have at your disposal.
- Add a feeding tray, but keep it at some distance to allow the cat to flee inside, or away, if a predator decides to drop by.
How cold is too cold for feral cats?
If you see your outdoor thermometer reaching 45-degrees Fahrenheit or going even lower, you should have already provided a shelter for your outdoor feline. In this low temperature, it is ill-advised to leave a cat without a heated sleeping container.
How hot is too hot for outdoor cats?
Anything higher than 102.5-degrees Fahrenheit is likely to cause a heat stroke in outdoor cats. Indoor-outdoor ones might be at an even higher risk if they spend the majority of their time indoors, as they might not be used to the outside weather. Just how providing a heated shelter is mandatory in the wintertime; during the hot summer months make sure that your outdoor pets have access to cold, fresh water and a shaded spot.
How long will an outdoor cat live?
They tend to have lifespans ranging from 2 up to 16 years, but it largely depends on their lifestyle. More feisty cats that get into fights and other types of trouble will probably have a shorter life, whereas those that stick to the same safe area have a high chance of living a longer life.
Do cats prefer to be inside or outside?
Cats love being dry, clean, fed, and safe. Therefore, if someone can provide that (plus some bonus affection/attention), they are likely about to end up with a new pet that won’t want to leave in the foreseeable future.
Conclusion
If you care about the comfort of your pet, you should provide it with an appropriate shelter that can help them feel safe, warm, and cared for. Most of the products we listed are budget-friendly and two of them are even heated, for the wellbeing of your beloved pet. Below we’ve made a final recap of the models that stood out, thanks to a few useful features, and deserve a second look:
Best Cat House for Sale:
K&H Pet 3993
The 3993 is a combination of every feature needed to enhance the comfort of your outdoor pet. It comes with a weather-resistant build, a heating pad with a comfortable faux fleece cover, two entryways with flaps to keep the heat inside, a roof overhang to keep the rain away from the entries, and a lightweight construction to give you an easier time when you’re relocating it. Design-wise, it comes in four different styles and three simple colors, out of which you’ll surely be able to find a match for your home.
Editor’s Choice:
New Age Pet ECTH350
Made from a resilient composite called ECOFLEX, the ECTH350 is a sturdy and weather-proof choice for an outdoor shelter. It comes with two exits with removable flaps, a larger capacity, moisture and insect proof materials, and it features a no-tool assembly for instant set up. The base is also elevated to maintain a good air circulation and avoid water leaks, and the roof can be raised to give you easier access inside.
Best Cat House for the Money:
Milliard PT101
For both your cat’s safety and your financial comfort, Milliard provides the best solution with the PT101. This model is lightweight and it comes with a roomy interior, weather-resistant materials, two entry points, a detachable roof, removable door flaps, and a comfortable cushion with a washable cover. The setup process is easy and storage-wise you won’t have a hard time either.
Best Cat House for Cold Weather:
Petyella Home Sweet Home
Weather-resistant, durable and sturdy, Petyella’s Home Sweet Home can be easily used outdoor. It provides a sheltered space for pets weighing up to 25 pounds and a heated one as well, since it comes with a waterproof heating pad. The non-flammable insulation and chew-proof cord will assure the animal’s safety, while the Velcro installation and timer setting will make things easier for you. It won’t overheat, it offers two exit points, and it comes in three different styles to suit your home perfectly.
Best Cat House for Large Cats:
Trixie 3-Story Cat House
If you have a bigger cat or even a little group that you need to keep safe from the cold weather, Trixie has just the product for you. Their 3-story model is big enough to accommodate 4 to 6 small cats or 3 average cats, and it provides larger entries as well. The roof is rainproof, the base is raised, and the openings have a plastic flap on the side and door panels in the front to keep the heat inside. What’s more, in the back you get a full-sized door that you can easily open to give you plenty of access when you need to do routine cleanups.
