14 Outdoor Cat Beds You Can Make at Home (Your Kitty Will Love These!)
Does your cat spend hours watching birds from the window, or do they have a favorite sunny spot on the patio? Outdoor cats need a cozy place to nap, but store-bought beds can be pricey and might not fit your space. Plus, making something with your own hands is so much more satisfying, right?
I’ve rounded up 14 DIY outdoor cat bed ideas that are simple, budget-friendly, and totally doable for a weekend project. Whether you have a few old wooden pallets, some fabric scraps, or an unused cooler, there’s a project here for you. Let’s get crafting—your furry friend will be so grateful!
1. The Repurposed Cooler Bed
That old hard-sided cooler sitting in the garage? It’s about to become the ultimate cat cave. The insulation is perfect for keeping your cat warm in winter and cool in summer. Just clean it out thoroughly, cut a circular entrance hole in the side (use a jigsaw for plastic), and sand the edges so they’re smooth.
Add a soft, washable cushion or an old fleece blanket inside. The best part? The lid stays attached, giving your cat a built-in roof for shade. It’s sturdy enough to withstand wind and rain, and it looks surprisingly intentional in a garden corner.
- Tip: Paint the outside with outdoor-safe paint to match your patio decor.
- Make sure the entrance is about 6 inches wide for easy access.
2. The Classic Wooden Pallet Lounge
Pallets are the holy grail of DIY projects, and they make a fantastic outdoor cat bed. Find a pallet in good condition, sand it down to prevent splinters, and give it a coat of weatherproof sealant. Place a thick, water-resistant outdoor cushion on top.
This bed is more of an open lounger, perfect for cats who like to stretch out and sunbathe. You can prop it up on bricks or cinder blocks to keep it off the damp ground. Add a small canopy using a piece of fabric and a few zip ties for extra shade.
- Check for any protruding nails before you start.
- Use outdoor fabric for the cushion so it dries quickly after rain.
3. The Upcycled Tire Snuggle Ring
Got an old tire lying around? It’s perfect for a cat bed! Clean the tire with soapy water and let it dry completely. Paint it with bright, weather-resistant outdoor paint to make it pop in your yard.
Place a round, plush pet bed or a folded blanket inside the tire’s center. The tire’s raised edges act like a natural bolster, giving your cat a sense of security while they curl up. It’s heavy enough not to blow away in the wind.
- Make sure the tire is free of any sharp wires.
- Elevate it on a couple of bricks for better airflow underneath.
4. The Simple Laundry Basket Hideaway
Those plastic laundry baskets with holes are surprisingly great for outdoor beds. They’re lightweight, but you can weigh them down with a brick or a heavy stone. Flip the basket upside down, cut a small “door” if needed, or just place a bed inside the basket as is.
The holes provide ventilation, which is great for hot summer days. Line the inside with a soft, outdoor-safe blanket. This is one of the fastest projects—you can have it done in under fifteen minutes.
- Look for a basket with a flat bottom so it doesn’t tip over.
- Add a small piece of cardboard under the blanket for extra structure.
5. The Cozy Cardboard Box Castle
Don’t underestimate the power of a cardboard box! Cats love them, and they’re free. Choose a sturdy, large box and reinforce the corners with duct tape. Cut a circular hole in one side and fold the flaps down to create a flat roof or leave them up for a tower.
Place the box on a dry, covered porch. Wrap it in a trash bag or a plastic tablecloth to protect it from light rain and morning dew. Put a soft towel inside, and you have a temporary but cozy retreat.
- Replace the box every few weeks since cardboard gets soggy.
- This is a great option for feral cats who are shy.
6. The Elevated Wooden Crate Bed
Use a wooden fruit crate or a small wine crate for a rustic-looking bed. Sand the wood and seal it with a non-toxic waterproofing spray. You can either leave it on the ground or attach legs (like small wooden blocks) to elevate it.
Elevating the bed keeps your cat safe from damp soil and tiny insects. Add a plush, machine-washable cushion on top. The slatted sides of the crate offer good airflow, making it a comfy spot in the summer months.
- Drill a few extra holes in the bottom for drainage, just in case.
- Add a small rope toy hanging from the side for extra fun.
7. The Styrofoam Cooler Insulated Hut
If you have a large Styrofoam cooler (the kind for fish or medical supplies), you can turn it into a super-insulated winter shelter. Cut a small entrance hole with a serrated knife. Place the cooler inside a larger plastic storage bin for waterproofing, or just cover it with a tarp.
Fill the bottom with straw (not hay, which holds moisture) for excellent insulation. This bed is a lifesaver for outdoor cats in colder climates. The thick walls trap body heat beautifully.
- Always use straw—it doesn’t mold like fabric in wet conditions.
- Face the entrance away from prevailing winds.
8. The Foldable Camp Chair Bed
You know those low-profile camp chairs that sit close to the ground? They are basically a cat bed frame waiting to happen! Open the chair and lay a thick blanket over the fabric seat. The sides of the chair act as a supportive bumper.
This is perfect for the cat who likes to drape themselves over the edge. It’s also portable—you can move it around the yard to follow the sun. Make sure the chair legs are stable and the fabric isn’t torn.
- Use a waterproof blanket to protect the chair fabric.
- This is great for deck or balcony use.
9. The Hanging Window Perch
While not exactly on the ground, this is a fantastic outdoor option if you have a covered porch or pergola. Use a sturdy wooden board, about 18 inches long, and attach rope or heavy-duty chains to the corners. Hang it from a beam.
Cover the board with a non-slip rug pad or a piece of outdoor carpet. Your cat will love the gentle sway and the high vantage point. Ensure the ropes are securely tied and the beam can handle the weight.
- Use a carabiner for easy removal and cleaning.
- Test the swing with your hands before letting your cat on.
10. The Plastic Storage Bin Cave
Grab a large, deep plastic storage bin from the store. Cut a circular hole in the lid (this will be the entry), and sand the edges. Turn the bin upside down so the lid is on the ground, and the bin itself is now the roof and walls.
Place a cozy blanket or a small pet bed inside. The bin is waterproof and very durable. You can even stack a brick on top to keep it stable in high winds. It looks pretty clean and tidy in a garden setting.
- Use a utility knife to cut the hole—it’s easier than scissors.
- Put a small rock inside to keep the blanket from blowing out.
11. The Towel & Bucket Bed
This is the simplest idea on the list. Take a large, sturdy bucket (like a 5-gallon paint bucket) and clean it thoroughly. Turn it upside down. Drape a thick, oversized bath towel over the bottom of the bucket, tucking the ends underneath the rim.
The bucket gives the towel structure, creating a little nest. Your cat can sit on top of the bucket or squeeze into the divot created by the towel. It’s lightweight and easy to move.
- Wrap the bucket in jute rope for a more decorative look.
- Use a microfiber towel for extra softness.
12. The Upcycled Suitcase Bed
Have an old, beat-up suitcase that’s seen better days? This is the perfect upcycle! Open the suitcase all the way. Place it on a patio table or a dry spot on the deck. The inside becomes a vintage-style bed.
Line the inside with a soft blanket. If the suitcase has wheels, make sure they are locked or removed. This bed adds a ton of charm to your outdoor space. Just make sure to bring it inside if heavy rain is expected unless it’s very weatherproof.
- Glue a piece of foam inside for extra cushioning.
- Spray the inside with fabric protector.
13. The Cinder Block & Board Lounge
This is a sturdy, industrial-looking solution. Place two cinder blocks on the ground, about two feet apart. Lay a thick piece of plywood or a wooden board across the top. This creates a raised, flat platform.
Place an outdoor cushion or a folded quilt on top. The blocks keep the wood off the ground, preventing rot and keeping your cat dry. You can also place a box under the board to create a two-story cat mansion!
- Sand the board edges to prevent splinters.
- Use a board that is at least 1 inch thick for safety.
14. The No-Sew Fabric Cube Bed
If you have some thick fleece fabric, you can make a cozy cube without sewing a single stitch. Cut two large squares of fleece. Place one on top of the other. Cut a grid of fringe around the edges and tie the pairs of fringe together with tight knots.
This creates a soft, fluffy cube shape. Stuff the inside with an old pillow or a balled-up blanket. This bed is very warm and perfect for a covered porch. It might not survive heavy rain, but it’s great for dry climates.
- Use outdoor-specific fleece if you can find it.
- Make the fringes about 2 inches long.
Final Thoughts
Your cat deserves a special spot to relax outside, and you don’t need to spend a fortune to make one. Each of these beds is simple to put together, and you likely have most of the materials lying around already. The best part is seeing your cat try out your creation—it’s the ultimate compliment!
Start with the easiest one that matches your materials. Whether it’s a quick towel bucket hack or a more polished pallet bed, your outdoor space is about to become way more cat-approved.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best material for an outdoor cat bed?
For the frame, use plastic, sealed wood, or heavy-duty rubber. For the cushion, use straw or fleece. Avoid cotton or hay, as they absorb moisture and get cold quickly.
How do I keep the bed dry in the rain?
Create a waterproof roof using a plastic bin lid, a piece of corrugated plastic, or a tarp. Also, elevate the bed off the ground so water doesn’t pool underneath.
Where should I place the outdoor cat bed?
Place it in a quiet, sheltered spot away from heavy foot traffic. Under a porch, near a wall, or under a bush are great options. Make sure the entrance faces away from the wind.
How often should I clean the outdoor bed?
Wash the bedding or blankets every week if you can. Wipe down plastic or wooden frames monthly. Keeping it clean prevents fleas and other pests.
Will stray cats actually use it?
Sometimes it takes a few days. Sprinkle a little catnip inside or place a piece of your cat’s clothing in there to make it smell familiar. Patience is key!
