DIY Cat Cages

There are a few ways that you can build cat enclosures or cages to keep your cats safe. Remember that cats aren't usually animals that are kept in kennels or cages for long periods of time. Cats might need to be in cages while they are being boarded, if they are recovering from surgery or illness, or if you are moving them from one place to another. Cats can also have enclosures outside to keep them safe.

  1. Temporary Cat Cage

    • Make your own temporary cat cage to keep your cat in if he is sick, incontinent or needs to be in a cage for his own safety temporarily. Remember that cats are active at night, so you shouldn't keep a cat in a cage overnight.

      Build your own cat cage by taking six pieces of chicken wire and cutting them into 4-foot by 4-foot squares. Lay them out on a work surface and then use screws or bolts to attach 1-inch by 4-inch pieces of wood (any wood will do) to the outer edges of each piece of wire. You should then have six squares of chicken wire all framed with wood.

      You can then attach the wood together to form an enclosed cube. Nail together five out of the six pieces of wood to form a cube with one end open. The sixth piece of wood should be attached with hinges on the top and clasps at the other three sides. This will allow you to secure it closed once you've put your cat into it.

      Remember, this cage should only be temporary, and can only hold average sized house cats.

    Outdoor Cages

    • Make an outdoor enclosure for your cat. This will allow her to roam free while she is in the backyard, but it will keep her safe from predators and from getting lost. You can set this enclosure on the grass, and it can be a place for you to put your cat when you'd like to have her outside.

      Use chicken wire to make four walls for the enclosure. They can be any size, but should be at least 6 feet by 6 feet. This will give your cat plenty of room to walk and run and play. Make sure the walls are at least 4 feet tall. You must add a roof, also out of chicken wire, to any outdoor cat enclosure. The best way to do this is to build a 6-foot x 6-foot square and then attach a roof to it, with hinges on one side and clasps on the other sides. Then, you can drop your cat into the enclosure, and secure the roof so she stays safe.