Pets
Crystal Raypole
If your cat loves hanging out in boxes, why not go one better and give them a cardboard cat house or two? With some quick assembly, these sturdy kitty hideouts provide a cozy and stimulating place to play or nap. Most include scratching pads to keep your cat's nails healthy, and some add bonuses like catnip. We've tried the best cardboard cat houses from Chewy and Target and can confirm our cats positively love them.
The 16 cardboard cat houses below can provide your cat plenty of enrichment and entertainment, not to mention fodder for your Instagram feed. Just keep in mind that unlike outdoor cat houses, cardboard cat houses don't offer any protection from the elements. You'll want to keep them indoors so you don't end up with a soggy mess.
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The perfect present for cats of all ages
Two large entrances keep curious cats informed, and the built-in scratch pad makes for great shredding.
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When they need a job to fuel their love of catnip
Cats can enjoy the scratching pad in this colorful truck — if they’re not too busy sampling the products.
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Bring out your cat’s mystical side
It comes with two bags of catnip so your cat can brew potions and whip up their own special blend.
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For cats dreaming of starring in Caturday cartoons
Instead of just snuggling on the sofa, your cat can entertain you with their very own show. Meow-velous!
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Somehow, your cat closed on a home before you did
A stairstep roof, huge windows, and a floor created for scratching make this every cat’s dream home.
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We all know who really rules your home
The king of the castle can survey his domain, indulge in catnip, and play with the attached mouse toy.
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“Class, here’s how we say we want food now”
Purrfect students can brush up on essential skills for cats, catch up on naps, and practice shredding.
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A plant your cat can safely nap in and knock over
The cardboard succulent topping this cat house might help keep your cat away from your real plants.
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It’s your little lion’s turn to be the ringmaster
This cozy circus cat house comes with a dangling ball and catnip to sprinkle on the scratchable floor.
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A storybook cottage for ha-paw-ly ever afters
This fairytale cat house offers the perfect spot for catnip-fueled daydreams of Prince Char-meow
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The perfect escape from the dog days of summer
With two doors and windows and a scratch pad floor, this bright house will make your cat a happy camper.
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Ahoy, mew-tys! For the pirate in every cat
Cats can stash their favorite toys, play with the mouse, and enjoy the bonus catnip — the real treasure.
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Who wants to eat Fancy Feast every night?
At this cat-friendly diner, your feline pal can enjoy rooftop service, complete with a bonus scratch pad.
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A high rise that puts cat condos to shame
This four-story house boasts stellar window views, plenty of floors to scratch, hanging toys, and catnip.
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Glamping for cats
Give your cat a vacay with this deluxe cabin. It has two levels to explore and LEDs to add a gentle glow.
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Every farmhouse needs a good cat (or two)
With two stories plus a roof, multiple cats can play, nap, and watch out for pesky barnyard mice.
Contributing Editor
Crystal Raypole is a writer and editor whose work has appeared in a number of publications, including GoodTherapy, Healthline, Psych Central, and Insider. Her primary areas of interest include mental health, pets, cooking, and natural sciences.
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Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at reviews@businessinsider.com.
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