How to Make Cat Houses From Rubbermaid Totes

Whether you are looking to make a cat house for inside your home or one that will weather the elements, a Rubbermaid container is one option. Rubbermaid containers come in different sizes, allowing you to make the house that is the right size for your cats. They are also inexpensive, saving you money in comparison to buying a premade cat house from your local pet supply store. Also, making your own Rubbermaid container cat house takes little time and effort to execute.

Things You'll Need

  • Rubbermaid container
  • Permanent marker
  • Jigsaw
  • Protective eye glasses
  • Work gloves
  • Sandpaper
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Instructions

    • 1

      Choose a Rubbermaid container that is large enough for the cat that will be using it. If you have multiple cats, choose one that will house all the cats at once, as some cats enjoy sleeping together. You want the house to be large enough that the cats can easily stand and turn around while they are inside.

    • 2

      Remove the lid from the Rubbermaid container and set it aside. Turn the container upside down and place it on your work surface. Choose a side for the door to your cat house. You can use any side you would like.

    • 3

      Draw the shape of the door on the side of your Rubbermaid container using a permanent marker. The door should be just large enough for the largest cat to enter. You can make the door any shape you would like. The corners can be squared or rounded.

    • 4

      Use a jigsaw to cut out the pre-drawn door you made in the previous step. Discard the cutout shape. Wear protective eye glasses and work gloves while working with the jigsaw.

    • 5

      Use sandpaper to smooth the edges of your door. This will prevent sharp edges catching your cats as they enter and leave the house.

    • 6

      Attach the lid to the Rubbermaid container and place your completed cat house where you want to keep it. When placing your cat house, leave the lid down and the bottom of the container up. This provides more room inside for your cats.