Waterproof Outdoor Cat Houses UK: Best Options for Rainy Weather (2025 Guide)
Why Cats Need Waterproof Outdoor Shelters in the UK
Let’s face it — the UK’s weather isn’t kind to outdoor cats. Between rain, wind, and unpredictable temperature drops, cats need somewhere dry and insulated to retreat to. Waterproof outdoor cat houses are the ideal solution — they protect against moisture, provide warmth, and give cats a safe space to rest no matter the season.
Whether you’re looking to buy one or build your own, this guide covers the best waterproof cat houses in the UK, how to make one weatherproof, and how to keep outdoor or stray cats warm and dry through every storm.
If you’d rather make your own, check out our DIY Cat Shelter Ideas Guide for simple step-by-step instructions.
What Makes a Cat House Waterproof?
A waterproof outdoor cat house keeps moisture out, even during heavy rainfall. The best shelters are made from weather-resistant materials like plastic, resin, or coated wood, and they include:
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A raised floor to prevent flooding
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Sealed seams to stop leaks
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A sloped roof to help rain run off
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A small entryway flap to block drafts
🛠️ How to Waterproof an Outdoor Cat House
If you already have a basic cat shelter:
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Seal seams with outdoor silicone or duct tape
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Wrap the exterior with a waterproof tarp or bin liner
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Add a flap made from thick plastic over the doorway
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Place the house on bricks or wooden pallets to lift it off the ground
The Mr Snugs Cat Den solves all these issues right out of the box. It’s a one-piece moulded design, completely waterproof and UV-resistant — no assembly, no leaks, and no seams for rain to seep through.
Best Waterproof Outdoor Cat Houses for UK Weather (2025 Picks)
| Cat House | Key Features | Best For | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mr Snugs Cat Den | One-piece waterproof plastic, UV-resistant, raised floor | Year-round outdoor cats | View Product |
| KatDen Plastic Cat House | Durable, stylish, weatherproof design | Multi-cat homes | Compare on Amazon |
| Wooden Outdoor Cat Cabin | Waterproof roof, insulated interior | Garden setups, traditional look | View on Amazon |
Each option provides reliable weather protection, but Mr Snugs stands out for its durability and ease of use — simply place it down and it’s ready for rain, snow, or shine.
How to Build a Warm and Waterproof Cat House Yourself
If you prefer DIY, creating your own waterproof shelter is easier than you might think.
You’ll need:
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A large plastic storage box or cooler
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Straw (for insulation)
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Duct tape and bin liners
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A sharp knife to cut an entrance
Steps:
1️⃣ Cut a 6-inch circular entrance near one corner.
2️⃣ Line the inside with straw (never blankets or towels).
3️⃣ Wrap the exterior in a waterproof sheet or bin liner.
4️⃣ Seal all seams with duct tape.
5️⃣ Elevate it on bricks to keep the floor dry.
For a full build tutorial, visit our DIY Cat Shelter Ideas post — perfect for those who want a low-cost, handmade option.
What Can You Put Outside to Keep a Stray Cat Warm?
If you care for stray or feral cats, you can help them survive the winter with a few essentials:
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Insulated shelter (like Mr Snugs or DIY versions)
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Straw bedding — the warmest and driest option
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Raised shelter position to avoid cold ground
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Dry cat food and fresh (unfrozen) water
The Blue Cross advises checking shelters weekly and replacing bedding regularly to keep them clean and dry.
The Warmest Bedding for Outdoor Cats
Many cat owners ask: What is the warmest bedding for outside cats?
The answer is straw — it’s moisture-resistant, traps heat, and doesn’t freeze.
Avoid towels, fleece, or paper — they absorb water and make cats colder.
Replace straw every 2–3 weeks to keep it clean and effective.
You can also add a reflective Mylar blanket or thermal mat beneath the straw for extra warmth.
If you want to learn more about bedding materials, see our upcoming guide on Best Bedding for Outdoor Cats in Winter (UK Guide).
Best Large and Extra-Large Waterproof Cat Houses
If you have multiple cats or large breeds, size matters.
Look for:
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Houses with a wide entryway
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Ventilation holes to prevent condensation
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Removable roofs for easy cleaning
The Mr Snugs Cat Den fits medium to large cats comfortably and can even be paired with a fleece liner (sold separately) for extra coziness.
You can also find extra-large wooden cabins online for multi-cat households, but remember to seal any gaps with waterproof sealant to prevent leaks.
Final Thoughts: The Best Waterproof Cat House for UK Rainy Days
With over 1,000 searches a month for “waterproof outdoor cat houses”, it’s clear UK pet owners want one thing — a reliable, weatherproof home for their cats.
If you love DIY, you can build one easily using our DIY Cat Shelter Guide.
But if you want a ready-to-go, long-lasting solution, the Mr Snugs Cat Den is hands-down the best option.
Made in the UK, fully waterproof, and built to last for years — it’s the only shelter you’ll ever need to keep your cats warm, dry, and happy in all weathers.
