8 Best Cat Caves, Tested and Approved for Cozy Comfort and Privacy

A cat cave can provide a cozy and secure space for your feline friend to relax and unwind, helping to reduce stress and anxiety. Here’s a recommendation for a popular cat cave:

The Meowfia Premium Felt Cat Cave is a handmade cat cave crafted from merino wool. It offers a comfortable and warm environment for your cat to retreat to. With its plush and enclosed design, it provides a sense of security and privacy that many cats appreciate. The Meowfia cat cave comes in a variety of color patterns, allowing you to choose one that suits your style and decor. It is available in two different sizes, ensuring there is an option that accommodates your cat’s size comfortably.

When selecting a cat cave, consider factors such as the material used, the size of the cave, and the overall design. Cats have different preferences, so it’s a good idea to observe your cat’s behavior and choose a cat cave that aligns with their needs and preferences.

Remember, providing a cat cave is just one of the ways to create a cozy and secure space for your cat. Offering additional hiding spots, comfortable bedding, and vertical spaces like cat trees can also contribute to their overall well-being.

Our top picks:

The 7 Best Cat Caves

Best Overall – Meowfia Premium Felt Cat Cave Bed

The Meowfia wool felt cat cave is a handcrafted product made from 100 percent merino wool sourced from New Zealand. This material choice ensures both durability and warmth, while also providing a soft texture. Wool is an ideal material for cats as it offers excellent insulation, thickness, and toughness, preventing cats from easily ripping through it with their claws. Additionally, wool naturally absorbs odors, helping to keep the cat cave fresh.

One notable feature of the Meowfia cat cave is its versatility. It can be compressed to form a cat bed, which proves useful during warmer months when the cave itself may be too warm for your cat’s comfort.

The Meowfia Premium Felt Cat Cave Bed is available in two sizes, with the larger size accommodating cats weighing up to 20 pounds and the smaller size suitable for cats weighing 12 pounds and under. Cleaning the cat cave is relatively easy, as it can be washed by hand using warm water or with the help of a steam cleaner.

Pros:

• Handmade using 100 percent merino wool felt for durability and softness
• Can be pressed flat to function as a cat bed
• Available in eight different patterns for aesthetic variety
• Two sizes to accommodate cats of different weights

Cons:

• Requires handwashing or cleaning with a steam cleaner, not suitable for machine washing

Best Budget – TILLYOU Cat Cave

The TILLYOU Cat Cave is an affordable option that provides a warm space and a comfortable pillow for your cat to relax. The plush cave features a unique triangular entrance with a dangling yarn ball, which adds an inviting element for your cat. The interior of the cave is covered in faux fur, creating a cozy environment. Additionally, the plush cushion inside the cave is removable and machine washable, making it easy to clean.

One interesting feature of the TILLYOU Cat Cave is that you can remove the plush cushion from the inside and place it on top of the structure, transforming it into an open-air bed.

The cat cave is available in two sizes: small and medium. However, the color options vary depending on the size. The small size is available in khaki or navy, while the medium size is only available in pale grey. Both sizes have a non-skid bottom for added stability and a loop on top to facilitate easy movement.

Pros:

• Available in two different sizes to accommodate cats of various sizes
• Non-skid bottom for stability and safety
• Removable plush cushion that is machine washable for easy cleaning

Cons:

• Not all color options are available in both sizes

Best Tent – Winsterch Cat Tent

The Winsterch Cat Tent is a structured hiding place for cats that offers the convenience of easy mobility and disassembly. Unlike many other cat caves, this tent uses eight flexible poles bound together by plastic brackets to create a rigid structure that maintains a consistent shape. This can be beneficial if your cat is uncomfortable with flexible fabric cat caves that can be deformed or easily pounced on by other cats in the household.

The Winsterch Cat Tent is available in gray and includes a machine-washable cushion with a non-skid rubber bottom, providing a comfortable and secure resting place for your cat.

Pros:

• Removable and washable warming cushion for easy cleaning
• Can be disassembled for convenient storage when not in use
• Lightweight design allows for easy mobility and repositioning

Cons:

• The assembly process may require fitting the plastic brackets together, which can be somewhat annoying or time-consuming

Best Outdoor – K&H Pet Products Outdoor Heated Multi-Kitty House

The K&H Outdoor Heated Multi-Kitty House is a suitable option for providing outdoor cats with a sheltered place to seek refuge during colder weather. It is especially useful if you have outdoor cats or if you want to offer shelter to free-roaming community cats. The house is designed to be set up in locations such as a garage, barn, or porch.

The exterior of the Multi-Kitty House is made of water-resistant polyester and features two entrances, ensuring that the cats have an escape route and cannot be cornered by other animals. Additionally, optional door flaps are available for use in wet weather environments. The interior of the house is spacious, providing both heated and non-heated areas for the cats.

The heated pad included with the Multi-Kitty House utilizes a 20-watt heater and exceeds U.S. regulatory safety standards. The pad is designed to warm the cats by providing heat to the area directly in contact with their bodies, rather than heating the interior of the cat house. It comes with a removable and washable fleece cover for added convenience.

Pros:

• Two entrances for easy access and escape
• Spacious interior suitable for multiple cats
• Removable door flaps for customization based on weather conditions
• Removable and washable fleece cover on the heated pad for hygiene maintenance

Cons:

• The roof of the house may not be strong enough to support a cat if they climb on top of it
• The heated pad is always on when plugged in and does not have an adjustable temperature setting

Best Novelty – Lively Pufferfish Cat House

The Lcybem fish cat cave offers a whimsical and fun design that can bring a smile to your face while providing comfort for your cat. The plush interior and removable pillow aim to provide a comfortable resting place for your feline friend. Additionally, the top of the cat cave can be patted down to create an open-air bed if your cat prefers that.

However, it’s important to note that this cat cave may not be the most durable or sturdy option. Cats that are prone to scratching and playing vigorously may damage the stuffing or remove the fish’s eyes or fins. Furthermore, the bed itself is not large, making it more suitable for smaller cats or kittens.

It’s worth mentioning that Lcybem also offers a version of the fish cat cave with entrances on either side, which may be more suitable for households with multiple cats.

Pros:

• Available in three sizes and three colors for variety
• Can be used as a bed in addition to a cat cave
• The machine-washable pillow is two-sided for convenience and versatility

Cons:

• Small and medium sizes may be too small for most cats, limiting its usability

Best Tunnel Cave – Bininl Peekaboo Cat Cave

The Bininl Peekaboo Cat Cave offers a durable and claw-friendly design made of felt, providing a variety of spaces for cats to play, relax, and hide. Shaped like a hollow donut, it features a tunnel that allows for multiple cats to use the cave at the same time.

The cat cave comes in two sizes: 24 inches and 20 inches in diameter. The larger size offers ample space for cats weighing up to 17 pounds, while the smaller size is more suitable for kittens and small cats weighing up to 9 pounds. For easy assembly and occasional cleaning, the Cat Cave is equipped with a zipper that goes around the perimeter.

Additionally, the Bininl Peekaboo Cat Cave is available in two color options: dark grey and light grey, allowing you to choose the one that best fits your preferences or home decor.

Pros:

• Available in two sizes and two colors, providing options for customization
• Easy assembly and cleaning with the zipper feature
• Suitable for multiple cats, thanks to the tunnel design

Cons:

• The smaller size is only suitable for smaller cats, limiting its usability for larger feline companions

Best for Multiple Cats – Bedsure Cat House

The Bedsure Cat House offers a versatile option for cats, allowing them to choose between an enclosed space or an open-air resting area. It provides ample play and rest space for two cats, accommodating both kittens and adult cats weighing up to 20 pounds.

The cat house comes in two size options: single and double. The single size features an internal cushioned cave-like space with an open-air cushioned bed on top, while the double size adds an additional cave on top for added space and variety.

The structure of the Bedsure Cat House is covered in lambswool fabric, providing a cozy and comfortable environment for your cats. The form is made from panels of MDF (medium density fiberboard), which is a dense engineered wood material. While MDF is not as sturdy as solid wood, it offers a balance between durability and weight.

All of the cushions in the cat house have removable machine-washable covers, ensuring easy cleaning and maintenance. Additionally, the Bedsure Cat House is available in multiple colors, including festive winter holiday shades, allowing you to choose the one that fits your preferences or home decor.

Pros:

• Suitable for cats of all ages, including kittens
• Easy assembly and foldable design for convenient storage
• Removable cushion with a machine-washable cover for easy cleaning
• Multiple color choices for customization

Cons:

• The foldable design may make this cat cave less sturdy compared to other options on the market

Read Also:7 Best Cat Scratch Furniture Protectors, Expert-Tested for Long-Lasting Durability

What to Look for in a Cat Cave

When looking for a cat cave, there are several factors to consider to ensure your cat’s comfort and satisfaction:

1. Size: Choose a cat cave that is spacious enough for your cat to comfortably curl up inside. Cats prefer cozy and enclosed spaces, so the cave should be large enough for them to fit in and move around comfortably.
2. Material: Look for a cat cave made from high-quality, durable, and non-toxic materials. Common materials include soft fabric, fleece, or wool. Ensure that the materials are safe for your cat to snuggle against and won’t cause any discomfort or allergies.
3. Design and Shape: Cats love enclosed spaces, so consider a cat cave with a well-defined structure, such as a dome shape or a covered tunnel. The cave should have a sturdy structure that maintains its shape even when your cat is inside.
4. Cushioning: A cat cave with soft and plush cushioning provides extra comfort for your cat. Look for caves with removable and washable cushions for easy cleaning.
5. Stability: Ensure the cat cave has a stable base or non-slip bottom to prevent it from sliding or toppling over when your cat enters or exits. This will provide a sense of security for your cat and prevent any accidents.
6. Accessibility: Consider how your cat will enter and exit the cave. Look for caves with a wide entrance or an open design that allows your cat to easily enter and exit without feeling trapped.
7. Easy maintenance: Opt for a cat cave that is easy to clean. Removable cushions or machine-washable materials can make maintenance more convenient.
8. Visual appeal: While not essential for your cat’s comfort, you may want to choose a cat cave that complements your home decor or matches your cat’s personality. There are various designs, colors, and patterns available to suit your preferences.

Remember that each cat has distinct preferences, so it’s possible that your cat may have specific preferences when it comes to a cat cave. Observing your cat’s behavior and preferences can help guide your decision-making process, and introducing the cat cave gradually with positive reinforcement can encourage your cat to use and enjoy it.

How do you clean a cat cave?

Cleaning a cat cave typically involves the following steps:

1. Check the care instructions: Before cleaning the cat cave, check the manufacturer’s care instructions or any labels attached to the cave. They may provide specific guidelines or precautions that you should follow.
2. Remove loose fur and debris: Take the cat cave outside or over a trash bin and gently shake it to remove any loose fur, dirt, or debris. You can also use a soft brush or lint roller to remove excess hair.
3. Wash the cat cave: If the cat cave is machine-washable, remove any removable cushions or inserts and follow the washing instructions provided. Typically, you’ll want to wash it on a gentle cycle with mild detergent. Use cold water unless otherwise specified. If the cat cave is not machine-washable, you may need to spot clean it or hand wash it following the manufacturer’s recommendations.
4. Dry the cat cave: After washing, allow the cat cave to air dry completely. Avoid using a dryer unless specified in the care instructions, as high heat can potentially damage certain materials.
5. Clean the cushions or inserts: If the cushions or inserts are removable and machine-washable, launder them separately following the same instructions as the cat cave. If they are not machine-washable, spot clean them or hand wash them as recommended.
6. Reassemble and fluff: Once the cat cave and cushions are dry, reassemble the cave and fluff up the cushions to ensure they are in their original shape and provide maximum comfort for your cat.

It’s important to note that the cleaning process may vary depending on the specific materials and construction of your cat cave. Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for the best cleaning practices. Regular cleaning and maintenance will help keep the cat cave fresh, hygienic, and inviting for your furry friend.

Where should I place a cat cave?

Choosing the right location for your cat cave is important to ensure that your cat will be inclined to use and enjoy it. Here are some considerations when deciding where to place a cat cave:

1. Quiet and peaceful area: Cats appreciate having a quiet and peaceful space where they can retreat and relax. Choose a location in your home that is away from loud noises, high traffic areas, and other sources of disturbance. This will provide your cat with a sense of security and privacy while using the cat cave.
2. Cozy and warm spot: Cats often seek out warm and cozy spots for their napping and resting. Place the cat cave in an area that receives natural light or near a heat source like a radiator or a sunny window. Ensure that it is not in direct drafts or cold areas to provide a comfortable environment for your cat.
3. Elevated or strategic position: Cats generally enjoy having a vantage point where they can observe their surroundings. Placing the cat cave in an elevated position, such as on a shelf, a sturdy cat tree, or a designated perch, can fulfill this desire. It allows your cat to have a better view of their territory while using the cave.
4. Near their favorite spots: Observe your cat’s behavior and identify areas where they already spend a lot of time or frequently rest. Placing the cat cave near these spots can increase the likelihood of them using it. For example, if your cat enjoys lounging on a particular couch or near a sunny window, consider placing the cat cave nearby.
5. Multiple locations: If you have multiple cats or a larger living space, consider having multiple cat caves placed in different areas. This provides options for your cats to choose from based on their preferences and allows them to have their own private space when needed.

Remember that each cat has individual preferences, so you may need to experiment with different locations to find the one that your cat prefers. Observe your cat’s behavior and adjust the placement accordingly to maximize the chances of them using and enjoying the cat cave.