Creating a cozy and affordable cat house from a plastic storage tub is a straightforward and rewarding DIY project, offering a safe and warm refuge for outdoor or feral cats.
How to Make a Cat House Out of a Tub?
A DIY cat shelter made from a plastic storage tub provides a cost-effective and practical solution for outdoor cats needing protection from the elements. These shelters are relatively easy to construct and can be customized for optimal warmth and durability, making a significant difference in a cat's comfort, especially during harsh weather.
Materials You'll Need
To build your cat shelter, gather these essential items:
- Large Plastic Storage Tub: A sturdy, opaque tub with a tight-fitting lid (e.g., 50-gallon or larger) is ideal. Opaque tubs block light and offer more privacy.
- Insulation Material:
- Styrofoam: A thin styrofoam box that fits inside the tub, or loose styrofoam pieces, is crucial for enhanced warmth and ultra durability.
- Straw (NOT hay): Clean, dry straw is excellent for bedding as it repels moisture and provides superior insulation. For more details on why straw is preferred, you can read about the benefits of straw for outdoor shelters.
- Mylar Emergency Blanket (optional): Adds an extra layer of warmth reflection.
- Cutting Tools: Utility knife, box cutter, or jigsaw (depending on tub thickness).
- Marking Tools: Marker or pen.
- Tape: Duct tape or heavy-duty packing tape.
- Optional: Bricks or heavy stones for stability, waterproof sealant.
Step-by-Step Guide to Building Your Cat Tub House
Follow these instructions to construct a warm and secure shelter for your feline friends:
1. Prepare the Tub and Create an Entrance
- Choose the Right Tub: Select a durable plastic tub with a tight-fitting lid. The size should be adequate for a cat to turn around comfortably, but not so large that body heat dissipates too quickly.
- Mark the Entry Hole: On one of the shorter sides of the tub, about 2-3 inches from the bottom, mark a circular or arched opening. An ideal size is around 6-8 inches in diameter – large enough for a cat to enter but small enough to deter larger predators and retain heat.
- Cut the Hole: Carefully use a utility knife, box cutter, or jigsaw to cut out the marked opening. Smooth any rough edges with sandpaper or duct tape to prevent injury.
2. Add Insulation for Warmth and Ultra Durability
This step is critical for creating a robust and warm shelter, significantly enhancing its strength and ability to retain heat.
- Styrofoam Layer:
- Method 1 (Styrofoam Box): If you can find a very thin styrofoam box that fits snugly inside your plastic tub, place it in. This forms an excellent insulating inner layer, making the shelter much stronger and warmer for ultra durability.
- Method 2 (Styrofoam Pieces): Alternatively, line the bottom and sides of the plastic tub with styrofoam pieces. Fill any gaps between the styrofoam and the plastic tub with additional smaller styrofoam pieces for maximum insulation.
- Mylar Blanket (Optional): Cut a Mylar emergency blanket to line the inside of the styrofoam or plastic tub. This reflective material helps trap the cat's body heat.
- Insulate the Lid: Cut a piece of styrofoam to fit snugly inside the tub lid. Secure it with tape if necessary. This prevents significant heat loss from the top.
3. Add Bedding Material
- Straw is Key: Place a generous amount of clean, dry straw inside the insulated tub. Straw creates air pockets for warmth and repels moisture, making it an ideal choice for outdoor shelters.
- Avoid Fabric: Do not use blankets, towels, or newspaper as bedding, especially in damp conditions, as they can absorb moisture and freeze, making the shelter colder and potentially dangerous for the cat.
4. Secure the Lid and Enhance Stability
- Lid Placement: Place the insulated lid firmly on the tub. Ensure it creates a tight seal to keep out rain and drafts.
- Weight for Stability: To prevent the shelter from tipping over in strong winds or from curious animals, place a few heavy bricks or stones on top of the lid.
- Seal Gaps (Optional): For extreme weather conditions, consider sealing any small gaps around the lid or entrance with waterproof sealant.
5. Placement and Maintenance Tips
- Strategic Location:
- Sheltered Spot: Position the shelter in a quiet, secluded area, away from direct wind and rain. Under a porch, in a shed, or beneath dense bushes are good options.
- Elevate: Place the tub on bricks, a wooden pallet, or other risers to lift it off the cold, damp ground. This prevents water from entering the shelter during heavy rain or snowmelt and provides additional insulation from the cold ground.
- Facing Away: Angle the entrance away from prevailing winds and rain.
- Regular Cleaning: Periodically check the shelter for cleanliness. Replace wet or soiled straw to maintain a hygienic and warm environment.
- Monitoring: Keep an eye on the shelter, especially during extreme weather, to ensure it remains a safe and functional haven for cats. You can find more tips on caring for outdoor cats at Your Local Humane Society website.
Table: Pros and Cons of a Tub Cat House
| Feature | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Very affordable, often using recycled materials | Requires initial investment in tub/insulation |
| Durability | Sturdy plastic resists weather; styrofoam adds ultra durability | Can be damaged by determined animals if not properly reinforced |
| Warmth | Excellent insulation with straw and styrofoam | Requires proper insulation and bedding to be effective |
| Portability | Lightweight and easy to move for cleaning or relocation | Can be blown away by strong winds if not weighted down |
| Assembly | Simple and quick DIY project, requiring basic tools | Requires careful cutting and assembly for best results |
In conclusion, a well-constructed cat house from a plastic tub provides invaluable shelter for outdoor cats, particularly in colder climates. By focusing on good insulation, a dry interior, and strategic placement, you can create a safe and warm refuge that significantly improves the well-being of local feline populations.
