Cats love cozy hideouts, and if you are a pet parent, you know how much they enjoy crawling into boxes and curling up in little spaces. Cardboard is one of the easiest and most affordable materials to use when building a DIY cat house. It is lightweight, eco friendly, and completely customizable, which makes it the perfect choice for anyone who wants to create something special for their feline friend. With just a few boxes, tape, and some creativity, you can transform ordinary cardboard into a playful and stylish cat house.
In this post, we will explore 10 unique cat house DIY ideas you can make with cardboard. Each project is beginner friendly, budget friendly, and can be customized based on your cat’s personality and your home decor style.
1. The Simple Cardboard Box House
The easiest way to start a DIY cat house project is with a simple cardboard box. Cats are naturally drawn to boxes, so even the most basic design will be a hit. To make it cozier, cut out a small arched entrance on one side of the box, tape the flaps shut, and add a soft blanket inside.
This type of cat house is perfect for small apartments or anyone who does not have much time for a complex project. You can decorate the outside with wrapping paper, paint, or fabric to make it blend with your home interior.
Pro tip: Place the box in a quiet corner where your cat feels safe, and it will quickly become their favorite spot.
2. The Multi Level Cat Castle
For cats that love climbing, a multi level cardboard castle is a fantastic option. You can stack different sized boxes on top of one another and cut out doors and windows to connect them. This creates a little maze where your cat can climb, peek through holes, and lounge on higher levels.
This project can be as small or large as you want, depending on the space you have at home. You can add towers, turrets, and even bridges between sections. It doubles as a toy and a resting place, keeping your cat entertained while giving them a cozy hideout.
Pro tip: Reinforce the structure with extra layers of tape to make sure it can handle your cat’s weight during playtime.
3. The Cardboard Tunnel Hideaway
If your cat loves hiding and crawling through tunnels, then a cardboard tunnel house is a fun project. Use long rectangular boxes, cut open both ends, and tape them together to form a winding tunnel system. Cut small circular windows on the sides to let in light and give your cat a peek outside.
This design is ideal for energetic cats who enjoy playtime. It is also a great way to keep indoor cats active while satisfying their instinct to explore.
Pro tip: Place a toy mouse or ball inside the tunnel to encourage play.
4. The Cardboard A Frame Cat Tent
A tent style cardboard house is stylish and functional. To build this, you can fold large pieces of cardboard into a triangular A frame shape and tape them together. Cut out an entrance on one side and place a small cushion inside.
This cat house has a cozy and modern look, making it a beautiful addition to your living room. Cats love the snug triangular shape because it feels safe and enclosed.
Pro tip: Add a fabric cover over the cardboard for extra durability and style.
5. The Cardboard Condo with Windows
For a more decorative approach, build a cat condo that looks like a mini house with windows. Use a medium sized box and cut square or round windows along with a door. Your cat will love peeking outside while lounging inside.
This design allows ventilation and light to come through, which makes it comfortable for your cat. You can paint the outside to resemble a cottage, cabin, or modern home depending on your taste.
Pro tip: Line the floor of the condo with a scratching pad so your cat can sharpen their claws inside.
6. The Cardboard Maze House
A cardboard maze cat house is a great way to combine play and rest. You can connect multiple boxes and cut different entrances and pathways, turning it into a maze that your cat will love exploring.
This idea is especially fun if you have multiple cats. They can chase each other through the maze and then retreat to different hideouts.
Pro tip: Create both dead ends and open paths in the maze to make it more entertaining.
7. The Cardboard Rooftop Lounge
If your cat enjoys climbing and perching up high, try building a cardboard house with a rooftop lounge. Start with a sturdy box for the base, cut an entrance, and then add a flat cardboard platform on top. Secure the platform well so your cat can comfortably sit on it.
This way, your cat has both a hiding spot inside and a lookout spot above. Cats love having elevated spaces because it gives them a sense of security and control over their environment.
Pro tip: Cover the rooftop with a scratching mat so your cat can use it as a lounge and scratching post.
8. The Cardboard Playhouse with Multiple Entrances
Cats love choices, so why not build them a cardboard playhouse with several entrances and exits. Take a large box and cut out multiple doorways on different sides. This design encourages playful zooming in and out while still being a cozy spot to rest.
This type of house works well for active cats or households with multiple cats who like to play together.
Pro tip: Place toys inside so your cat associates the playhouse with fun and comfort.
9. The Cardboard Tower with Scratching Posts
You can combine your cat house with functional scratching areas by adding cardboard scratching posts. Stack and glue layers of corrugated cardboard into a sturdy tower with a hideout at the bottom. Cats can scratch the sides and climb to the top, making it a multipurpose space.
This design helps protect your furniture by giving your cat an attractive scratching alternative. It also provides vertical space, which is important for feline happiness.
Pro tip: Sprinkle catnip on the scratching areas to attract your cat to use them regularly.
10. The Cardboard Luxury Villa
For the ultimate DIY project, create a cardboard luxury villa for your cat. Use multiple boxes to build a house with separate rooms, balconies, and play areas. Add windows, doors, and connecting tunnels.
While this design takes more time and effort, it is a show stopping piece that not only makes your cat happy but also looks impressive in your home.
Pro tip: Use non toxic paint or decorative paper to give the villa a polished and stylish finish.
Tips for Building a Cardboard Cat House
- Always use non toxic materials, as cats may scratch or chew the cardboard.
- Reinforce corners and joints with tape for durability.
- Cut smooth edges to prevent your cat from getting scratched.
- Add soft bedding or blankets inside for comfort.
- Place the house in a quiet, cozy corner where your cat feels secure.
Why Cats Love Cardboard Houses
Cats are naturally curious and love confined spaces because it gives them a sense of safety. Cardboard also provides warmth and texture, making it comfortable to scratch and lounge on. By building a DIY cardboard house, you give your cat a place to rest, play, and feel secure while also creating something fun and budget friendly.
Final Thoughts
Creating a DIY cat house with cardboard is a rewarding project that benefits both you and your feline companion. Whether you go for a simple box or an elaborate multi level castle, your cat will appreciate the effort and love you put into making them a special hideout.
These 10 ideas are just a starting point, and you can always customize them to suit your cat’s personality and your home decor. With a little creativity, cardboard can be transformed into a magical retreat for your pet.
