23 Cardboard Cat House Ideas That Will Make Your Kitty Purr with Joy
Alright, let’s be real—cats are weirdly obsessed with boxes. You can spend a small fortune on fancy cat furniture, and your furball will still choose the cheapest cardboard box in the room.
I’ve learned this the hard way after buying a “deluxe cat palace” only to watch my cat completely ignore it while lounging in a slightly crushed cereal box.
So, why not embrace it? Today, we’re talking cardboard cat houses—budget-friendly, customizable, and guaranteed to entertain your kitty for hours.
I’ve tried a bunch of these DIY ideas with my own cats, and some were instant hits while others… well, let’s just say the cats had other plans.
Either way, you’ll find inspiration to create a cardboard haven that your cat actually uses.
1. Classic Box Castle
Sometimes, simplicity wins. Take a large cardboard box, cut out an entrance, and maybe a couple of windows. Stack another box on top, and voila—you have a mini fortress.
Tips:
- Use tape or glue to secure the structure.
- Cut the entrance big enough for your cat to get in comfortably.
- Optional: add some fabric or a soft cushion inside for extra coziness.
Ever noticed how cats immediately claim multi-level spaces? That’s why stacking boxes works like magic.
2. Multi-Level Cat Tower
Want a full-fledged cardboard skyscraper? Stack multiple boxes with holes cut between them so your cat can climb up and down.
Pro Tips:
- Make sure the tower is stable. Safety first!
- Leave at least one level open for lounging.
Cats love to survey their domain from a height—it’s basically their inner monarch screaming, “I own this house.”
3. Tunnel Delight
Who doesn’t love a tunnel? Cut long cardboard tubes or connect boxes to create a maze of passageways.
Why it works:
- Encourages play and exercise
- Satisfies the cat’s natural hiding instincts
IMO, tunnels are especially fun if you have two cats—they’ll chase each other for hours.
4. Cardboard Condo
Think apartment-style living but for cats. Arrange several boxes side by side with entrances connecting them.
What to include:
- Small windows for peeking
- Different textures or bedding in each box
- Optional scratching surfaces on the sides
It’s like giving your cat a mini neighborhood right in your living room.
5. Peekaboo Cat House
Cats love hiding spots where they can watch without being seen. A simple box with a round peek hole works wonders.
Extra flair:
- Cut a few “peep windows” at different angles
- Add soft padding inside
- Sprinkle a bit of catnip for immediate interest
Ever noticed how cats suddenly act like spies when they have a small hole to look through? Magic.
6. Luxury Cardboard Mansion
Yes, you can make a deluxe version using multiple large boxes, cutouts for doors and windows, and maybe even some decorative cardboard shingles.
Pro tip:
- Use double layers of cardboard for sturdiness
- Make at least two entrances so the cat can escape if it gets nervous
Your cat won’t care about the fancy design—but you’ll get bragging rights.
7. Simple Snuggle Box
Some cats just want a cozy, simple space to nap.
Setup:
- One medium box
- Soft blanket or towel inside
- Maybe a small pillow
Cats spend a lot of time napping, so a simple design can be more effective than an elaborate castle.
8. Cardboard Igloo
Curved shapes are surprisingly easy to make with cardboard. Cut pieces to create a dome effect for an igloo-style house.
Bonus points:
- Keeps your cat warm and enclosed
- Great for cats who like to hide
Ever seen a cat disappear into a tiny igloo? Instant cuteness overload.
9. Interactive Playhouse
Combine cardboard boxes with dangling toys or holes for paws. This creates a mini playground.
Ideas:
- Cut holes for toys to dangle through
- Connect multiple boxes for running paths
- Sprinkle a few treats inside to encourage exploration
Cats love toys, and cardboard gives them plenty of scratching opportunities too.
10. Modular Cardboard Houses
Create separate pieces that can be rearranged. One day it’s a tunnel, the next day a tower.
Why it’s genius:
- Keeps your cat curious
- Lets you rotate setups without buying new stuff
IMO, modular designs make your cardboard cat house last longer and keep your cat entertained.
11. Cardboard Tent
A-frame cardboard pieces with a soft blanket underneath creates a tent-like hideaway.
Benefits:
- Enclosed yet airy
- Easy to build with minimal supplies
- Cats love the “den” feeling
12. Stacked Cube House
Use cube-shaped boxes to create a geometric play area. Cut entrances between cubes for easy movement.
Extra touch:
- Leave one cube empty for lounging
- One cube can include a scratching surface
The stacked design gives vertical play space without overwhelming your living room.
13. Window-Looking Cat House
Cats love to look outside, right? Create a cardboard perch with a window cutout for them to watch the world.
Pro tip:
- Place it near an actual window for maximum enjoyment
- Add a soft cushion or mat inside
Suddenly your cat has their personal observation post.
14. Maze House
Combine several boxes in a random pattern to create a maze. Your cat will love exploring different paths and hiding spots.
What to consider:
- Make sure paths aren’t too tight for your cat
- Include some dead ends for surprise fun
Maze houses are perfect for energetic cats who need stimulation.
15. Cat Castle With Drawbridge
Yes, you can get fancy. Add a flap that acts like a drawbridge for your kitty to enter.
Tips:
- Lightweight cardboard works best
- Keep the flap low enough for easy access
It’s a silly idea, but cats are impressed with anything new—so you’ll win brownie points for creativity.
16. Cubby Hideout
A small, simple cubby inside a box gives your cat a tight, cozy spot. Perfect for shy cats.
Setup:
- One entry hole
- Soft fabric inside
- Optional sprinkle of catnip
Cats feel safe in enclosed spaces. It’s like their personal retreat.
17. Cardboard Cat Tunnel With Multiple Entrances
Think multiple connected tunnels with holes for peeking.
Why cats love it:
- Encourages interactive play
- Perfect for hiding and pouncing
IMO, this design doubles as a mini exercise area.
18. Portable Travel Box
Create a lightweight cardboard house you can move around easily.
Benefits:
- Great for temporary setups
- Easy to change location
- Perfect for apartment cats
Sometimes location is everything when it comes to keeping your cat entertained.
19. DIY Cat Tree With Boxes
Stack boxes vertically with openings and platforms for climbing.
What to include:
- Soft fabric on top platforms
- Holes for climbing in and out
- Optional hanging toys
Cats love vertical space. A cardboard cat tree is a cheap alternative to expensive furniture.
20. Puzzle House
Add small flaps or holes where cats have to figure out how to reach treats.
Pro tip:
- Use treats your cat loves
- Rotate challenges to keep it fun
Mental stimulation is just as important as physical play.
21. The Cardboard Lair
Go wild with multiple layers, towers, and tunnels. A complete labyrinth for your feline overlord.
Tip:
- Make it stable with reinforced tape
- Include soft resting spots
It looks chaotic to humans but is paradise for cats.
22. Outdoor-Friendly Cardboard House
If you have a covered patio, a cardboard house can work outside too.
Considerations:
- Protect from rain
- Use thicker cardboard for durability
- Add a waterproof liner or tarp
Just remember, cats love sun and shade—so place it wisely.
23. Cardboard Cat Café
Stack multiple houses and tunnels in one corner for a “cat café” vibe.
Why it’s fun:
- Multiple cats can enjoy simultaneously
- Creates a lively play area
- Perfect for socializing cats
You might find yourself spending more time watching them than your actual coffee.
Final Tips for a Successful Cardboard Cat House
Before you start cutting and taping, keep these points in mind:
1. Safety First
No sharp edges, no small parts that can be swallowed. Your cat’s safety is non-negotiable.
2. Comfort Is Key
Soft padding, blankets, or towels go a long way. Even the simplest cardboard becomes a luxury with some cushioning.
3. Stability Matters
Reinforce taller structures. Cats are heavy when they jump, and a wobbly house equals disaster.
4. Rotation Keeps Interest
Switch boxes or rearrange tunnels every few weeks. Cats love new setups.
5. Minimal Cost, Maximum Fun
The beauty of cardboard cat houses is they’re cheap and customizable. No need to splurge unless you want bragging rights.
Conclusion: Let Your Cat Reign Supreme
Cardboard cat houses are the perfect combination of budget-friendly, fun, and customizable. From simple cozy boxes to elaborate multi-level castles, there’s something here for every type of cat.
Whether your kitty loves napping, hiding, climbing, or playing, you can design a space that keeps them entertained and content. Trust me, the purrs, zoomies, and adorable sneaky moments are worth every cut, tape, and cardboard flap.
So grab some boxes, a pair of scissors, and a bit of imagination. Your cat—and your wallet—will thank you.
