What a cat tent is
A cat tent is a small tent made for a cat. It comes in two very different kinds. One is a den: a closed, soft tent a cat can curl up and hide in, indoors or out. The other is an enclosure: a mesh tent or playpen that lets a cat be outdoors in the garden, on a balcony or on a camping trip while staying contained. There are also insulated houses for cats that live outside. Many are made for cats and small dogs alike.
Enclosure, playpen, den or outdoor house: which cat tent
- Mesh enclosures are pop-up spheres about 68cm across, with a steel frame, scratch-resistant mesh and a large zip door. One is made for small pets under 15lb and keeps insects out.
- Mesh playpens are round or octagonal with mesh all round. One octagonal tent is 73 by 73cm and 43cm tall, in thick 600D fabric with a mesh top that unzips and two zip doors. See dog tents.
- Closed dens for indoors fold flat, in sizes from 35 by 35cm and 30cm tall, and are made as a snug den.
- Outdoor cat houses and shelters are waterproof and insulated, with a reflective lining, a fabric door flap and, in one, a reversible fleece mat. One is sold for feral, stray and pet cats living outdoors.
- Teepees and nest tents have a cushion, and one comes with a cooling mat for warm weather.
Mesh, zips and claws
For an enclosure, the mesh and the zips are what to check. The ones here describe their mesh as tear-resistant and scratch-resistant, and their zips as heavy-duty, made to stop accidental escapes. Look for a zip that closes fully round the door and a frame that holds its shape. Set an enclosure up on a lawn or a patio, and fold it flat again for the car or a cupboard. Mesh lets air and light through all round, but it also lets rain in, so it is for fine days.
Shelters for cats that live outdoors
An outdoor cat house is a different thing from a den. It needs a waterproof outer, an insulated or reflective lining, and a small door that keeps out wind. The ones here are made for gardens, porches, patios and balconies, and one comes in three sizes from 33cm to 42cm across. A removable mat, as one has, is easy to take out and clean.
Questions people ask about cat tents
Can a cat tent go outside?
The mesh enclosures, playpens and cat houses can. Some closed dens are for indoor use only; each product says which.
Will a small dog fit in a cat tent?
Several are made for cats and small dogs, and give the size or the weight of pet they take.
How long does delivery take?
Delivery is included in every price and tracked to your door. Each product page says when that tent usually arrives, so check it before ordering for a set date.
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