The Best Cat Tents For Outside
Whether you're looking for a temporary enclosure away from home or a more permanent base for your fuzzy outdoor predator, cat tents provide protection and relaxation no matter your pet's preferred territory. Most outdoor tents feature a breezy mesh exterior for unsupervised lounging and functional frames that are easy to lock and break down. Not only are these devices ideal for giving house cats a secure taste of the wild, but their open layout will also encourage playful exercise with owners and furry friends alike.
What to Look For
While searching for the best outdoor cat tents, we focused on essential specifications like portability, ease of use, and durability. One of our favorite picks was Fooubaby’s cat tent. It’s a beautiful, lightweight option that takes seconds to wipe down and clean on the go. We were also impressed by the full mesh enclosure and generous surface area from Outback Jack. Plus, it’s strong enough to handle an entire litter of kittens. Whatever your preference, we encourage you to read on for more details and further recommendations.
Fooubaby Cat Tent
Comfortable and convenient
The cat tent from Fooubaby gives house cats a new perspective on the world around them. This model features two doors, 360-degrees of mesh walls, and a thick mat that isn’t easily punctured by sharp claws. While this cat house prioritizes keeping your pet secure as you enjoy your day outdoors, the doors can be left open to encourage your cat’s curious nature. With three color options and no assembly required, this shelter will make fellow felines and owners green with jealousy.
Pros:
- Thanks to the tarp lining, this tent won’t retain moisture or lead to dirty paws when placed on damp grass.
- At just under one pound and two inches thick (when in storage mode), this tent is ideal for camping and park outings.
- We found that the steel wire frame is highly malleable and will pop back into form even when crushed under heavyweight.
Cons:
- We wouldn’t recommend this product for windy environments because it has no anchor points.
Outback Jack Cat Enclosure
The ultimate pet playpen
If you’re in search of a serious cat compound that can secure your pet and all of their favorite toys, look no further than Outback Jack’s cat enclosure. This device has a similar frame to lightweight backpacking tents. It boasts two flexible support beams that deliver nearly three feet of vertical clearance. This generous spacing allows you to fill the structure with lofty cat poles or hanging toys that provide hours of entertainment.
Pros:
- We like that the cat tunnel locks on both ends and can be detached to accommodate outdoor patios and decks with limited space.
- At over five feet long, you can use the tunnel to give cats a permanent pathway out of windows and into the secure tent section.
- Outback Jack includes sturdy anchors that prevent tipping in stormy conditions or when playtime gets a bit rough.
Cons:
- While the tent collapses and folds up quickly, it isn’t easy to fully seal it into its narrow storage bag.
Hi Suyi Cat Tent
Portable and roomy
Cat owners that want to acclimate their precious pet to the outdoors trust Hi Suyi for semi-permanent shelter away from home. Unlike some freestanding tents that require tedious assembly, this product immediately pops open. Virtually translucent, this nylon enclosure will give you a clear view of your cat at any angle. Plus, the waterproof rain fly and metal ground stakes make Hi Suyi a dependable option for outdoor felines that need shelter from stormy conditions.
Pros:
- The storage bag has a thick strap that won’t dig into your shoulder while transporting the tent.
- The nylon enclosure features fine netting that’s small enough to block pests like ticks and mosquitos.
- With over thirty square feet of space, this tent is also fitting for puppies and medium-sized dogs.
Cons:
- The rain fly is a bit limited in surface area and won’t protect full-sized blankets or mats from moisture completely.
Kitty City Cat Cube
Low price, high value
While some cats need a sealed-in playpen to feel secure, more active pets prefer open designs for fast escapes and exploration. If your cat falls into the latter category, check out Kitty City’s cat cube. This adorable lookout is slightly larger than the average house cat and makes sense as a temporary outpost for indoor and outdoor enjoyment.
Pros:
- This product features velcro anchors and three doorways so you can effortlessly build a maze of stackable cubes.
- We appreciate that the cube includes a looped tassel that’s useful for attaching additional toys to the ceiling.
- When it’s not in use, the cat cube folds to a size that’s only slightly larger than the average hand.
Cons:
- The material can be torn apart with frequent use if you don’t trim your cat’s claws regularly.
Sport Pet Portable Cat Kennel
The refuge on the road
Sport Pet’s pop-up kennel is a versatile device that lowers the stress levels of both pets and owners on long, exhausting trips. While traditional kennels are bulky and have limited visibility, this hybrid tent is just over two pounds and gives users an unobstructed view on two sides. Not only can both doors be instantly propped open for adventures, but the pull-down shade can block most light when your cat needs a break.
Pros:
- The kennel’s exterior straps work with nearly all car seatbelts to prevent shaking or drops during transit.
- We love how the waterproof liner prevents stains and won’t retain moisture from the outdoors.
- Thanks to Sport Pet’s opaque roof and superior ventilation, this kennel will let your pet cool off even in direct sunlight.
Cons:
- The transition from house to vehicle can be difficult because the kennel’s floor is not rigid.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are cat tents safe?
While most cat tents use tamper-proof materials that can handle clawing and constant use, not all are qualified for unsupervised use. In general, you should avoid cat tents with metal or hard plastic because these components can cause teeth damage with excessive chewing. Additionally, cats should never be left locked in enclosures for extended periods. Due to their independent nature, cats may panic if they feel trapped, leading to tears in a tent’s fragile mesh lining.
How do I keep my cat tent clean?
Fortunately, cat tents tend to rely on polyester-based materials for their frames that are easy to wash with a damp cloth and a little dish soap. With that said, we recommend cleaning your pet’s home weekly to keep it in tip-top shape. While the floor will accumulate most of the mess, cat hair can quickly build up throughout the tent, leading to hairballs and other digestive issues. Be sure to use a lint roller to remove persistent shedding and dry the enclosure thoroughly to stop the growth of harmful bacteria.
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