Introduction
Cats are curious, playful creatures who love cozy, quiet spaces to nap and relax. An indoor cat house can be the perfect solution for creating a dedicated sanctuary for your feline friend. Whether you’re looking for something stylish that blends seamlessly with your home decor or a functional play zone that keeps your pet entertained, these design ideas cater to every cat’s personality and your home’s unique style.
From creative DIY projects like dresser conversions and heated cat houses to multi-level cat tree houses and wall furniture, these ideas are a mix of creativity, comfort, and practicality. Indoor cat spaces are not only great for your cat’s mental and physical health but can also add charm to your living area with unique and playful designs.
Whether you’re short on space or have an entire room to transform, these 10 inspiring indoor cat house design ideas will help you create a cozy retreat for your furry friend. With DIY solutions and creative approaches, these projects are easy to achieve while ensuring your cat has a happy and luxurious space indoors.
1. Cozy DIY Cat Tree House
A DIY cat tree house is perfect for curious cats who love to climb, scratch, and nap at different levels. To create one, gather plywood, sisal rope, carpet, and soft bedding. Start by designing a multi-level structure using a sturdy wooden base to ensure stability. Attach platforms and ramps for climbing and add sisal-wrapped columns for scratching posts. Cover each surface with soft carpet or felt to make it cozy and durable for clawing.
Incorporate small “cat condos” at various levels, made of wooden or carpeted boxes. Cut circular entrances into the boxes and fill them with plush cushions or blankets for nap time. Add hanging toys or dangling ropes for play, and consider placing the cat tree near a window so your cat can enjoy the outside view.
This DIY cat tree house combines functionality and fun, offering a mix of exercise, scratching, and lounging options. It’s a great addition to your home and keeps your cat happy indoors.
2. Stylish Dresser to Cat House Transformation
Repurposing an old dresser into a cat house is a brilliant way to combine home decor with feline comfort. Start by choosing a dresser you no longer use. Remove the bottom two drawers and add a plywood panel with a circular opening for easy cat access. Sand and paint the dresser to match your home decor for a polished look.
Inside the dresser, place soft blankets or memory foam cushions to create a comfortable hideaway for your cat. Add LED lights inside for a warm, cozy glow, and hang a small name plaque outside to personalize the space. The remaining dresser drawers can be used for storing toys, treats, and grooming tools.
This dresser cat house is an ideal solution for small homes, as it seamlessly integrates with your furniture while providing your cat with a luxurious retreat. It’s a perfect blend of style and functionality.
3. Heated Indoor Cat Nook
Create a warm and soothing indoor space with a DIY heated cat nook—perfect for colder months. Start with a sturdy wooden or insulated box with a circular or arched entrance. Line the inside with soft fleece or faux fur fabric for extra warmth and comfort.
Add a heating pad designed for pets to the floor of the box. Ensure it’s temperature-controlled and safe for prolonged use. Secure the pad under a removable cushion so it stays in place and provides consistent warmth. Decorate the outside of the nook with paint, decals, or faux vines to match your home decor.
This cozy nook is ideal for older cats or those who love warmth during naps. Place it in a quiet corner or under a table where your cat can relax undisturbed. This heated design is functional, stylish, and ensures your cat feels pampered and cozy year-round.
4. Wall-Mounted Cat House Furniture
Wall-mounted cat furniture is an innovative way to create vertical space for your feline friends. This idea is perfect for small homes or apartments where floor space is limited. Using wood planks, shelves, and brackets, design a series of platforms and ramps along a wall.
Include wall-mounted “cat houses,” which are enclosed wooden boxes with cut-out entrances and soft bedding inside. Connect the platforms and houses with sturdy ramps or climbing poles wrapped in sisal rope. Add elements like hanging toys, dangling plants, or LED lights for a playful touch.
This vertical design satisfies your cat’s natural climbing instincts and provides plenty of exercise opportunities. Plus, it doubles as a modern, minimalist decor piece in your home. It’s stylish, functional, and gives cats their own climbing playground indoors.
5. Multi-Level Cat Playhouse
A multi-level cat playhouse is a dream come true for energetic felines. Use plywood, carpet, and soft cushions to design an indoor cat structure with multiple levels, cubbies, and tunnels. Build enclosed nooks for sleeping, open platforms for lounging, and ramps for climbing.
Add scratching posts wrapped in sisal rope and hanging toys to keep your cats entertained. Customize the playhouse with paint or fabric that matches your home decor for a polished finish. You can even include a small “patio” space with a mini cushion for extra lounging comfort.
This design offers endless opportunities for play, rest, and exercise while blending seamlessly into any room. It’s a perfect choice for multi-cat households or active pets who love to climb and explore.
6. Minimalist Cat Cube with Cushions
For a sleek and modern look, create a minimalist cat cube that doubles as functional furniture. Build a large wooden or MDF cube with circular or square openings on one or more sides. Inside, add a thick, memory-foam cushion or plush bedding for ultimate comfort.
Keep the cube’s exterior minimal by painting it neutral tones like white, grey, or black. Place it in your living room as a side table or under a desk to make it blend effortlessly with your decor. Add cozy blankets or a name tag for a personalized touch.
This simple yet luxurious design is perfect for cats who love a quiet hideaway while keeping your space chic and clutter-free.
7. Cat House with Built-In Scratching Posts
Combine a cat house with scratching posts to keep your pet entertained and protect your furniture. Start with a sturdy wooden structure, such as a box or tower, and add sisal-wrapped columns as part of the frame.
Design interior hideouts for napping, complete with soft cushions or padded walls. Place open platforms on the exterior of the house for lounging. Attach hanging toys or interactive elements for added stimulation.
This multi-functional design provides a space for scratching, play, and rest, making it perfect for active cats. It’s durable, stylish, and practical for any home.
8. DIY Cat Tent Retreat
Create a cozy DIY cat tent using dowel rods and fabric. Construct a simple wooden frame in a triangular shape, and cover it with soft, breathable fabric. Inside the tent, place a plush bed or thick blanket for comfort.
Decorate the exterior with small pom-poms, fairy lights, or decals to add a playful touch. Place the tent in a quiet corner or near a window where your cat can enjoy sunlight.
This tent design is lightweight, portable, and easy to assemble, making it a great retreat for shy cats or kittens.
9. Window Nook Cat Bed
Turn your window space into a luxurious nook where your cat can relax and enjoy the view. Build a secure window seat using a wooden base, brackets, and soft cushions. Add a cozy blanket or a heating pad for extra warmth.
Install small shelves or hooks nearby for toys, treats, and decor. This nook provides a sunny spot for your cat to lounge while keeping your space organized.
10. Indoor Cat Patio (Catio) Corner
Create an enclosed indoor “catio” corner using mesh panels, wood, and cozy bedding. Design a small climbing space inside with ramps and hideouts, perfect for play and relaxation. Add a cat-safe plant and a small fountain to make the space feel natural and calming.
Conclusion
Indoor cat houses offer comfort, entertainment, and a sense of security for your furry friends while enhancing your home decor. Whether you’re transforming a closet, building a DIY playhouse, or incorporating stylish wall furniture, these 10 indoor cat house design ideas combine creativity with practicality.
Each design is unique and tailored to suit different spaces and cat personalities, from cozy retreats to active play zones. These ideas are perfect for creating a personalized, luxurious environment that keeps your cats happy and entertained indoors.
Start your project today, and watch as your feline friends enjoy their new space to climb, nap, and play!