The Best Outdoor Cat Enclosures & Playpens in 2024

That fluffy little kitten you’re cuddling and playing with will all-too-soon be an adult cat. To support his rapid growth and development, it’s important to feed him a quality food that is made for a kitten’s needs, not for an adult cat. Foods made for adult cats lack some of what your kitten requires.

In some ways, kittens and adult cats have similar nutritional requirements. The requirements for fats, certain fatty acids, and almost all vitamins are the same as those of an adult cat.

However, in other ways, their dietary requirements are significantly different. Kittens need more of some vitamins, plus their need for minerals, amino acids, and protein is higher than that of adult cats.

To support these needs, feed kitten food for your pet’s first year. We’ve reviewed some of the top kitten foods on the market, to make it easier for you to choose.

Our Top List

#	Preview	Product	Our Rating	Link	Price / Value
1		EliteField 2-Door Soft Cat Playpen	4.5/5	Check Today's Price	10/10
2		Outback Jack Kitty Compound	4/5	Check Today's Price	9.5/10
3		ESK Collection Blue 45″ Cat Playpen	4.5/5	Check Today's Price	9.5/10
4		PawHut Large Wooden Outdoor Cat Enclosure	4/5	Check Today's Price	9.5/10
5		Ruff ‘n Ruffus Portable Foldable Pet Playpen	4.5/5	Check Today's Price	10/10
6		ToysOpoly #1 Premium Pet Playpen	4.5/5	Check Today's Price	9.5/10
7		Outback Jack Happy Habitat Cat Tent	4.5/5	Check Today's Price	9.5/10
8		Nala & Company – Cat House Outdoor Pet Enclosure	4.5/5	Check Today's Price	9.5/10

The EliteField playpen comes in different sizes, but the 48-inch by 48-inch by 32-inches high is our favorite choice. This pen gives your cat plenty of room to move around, and its sizing allows more than one cat to spend time inside comfortably. It includes a carrying bag for portability, along with four ground stakes so it won’t easily shift on a windy day.

Your cat can see out all the way around, as all of the sides, as well as the roof, are made of mesh. The lower part of the walls consists of vinyl panels that kitty can easily see over, and some of the panels have pockets to hold treats, a water bottle, or whatever else you want to have handy.

Two doors mean that your cat can easily be retrieved from inside this pen no matter where he decides to hang out. Sturdy zippers completely close each door, so no holes remain for a curious kitty to investigate. Even the cleverest of kitties won’t soon escape from this playpen, because the zippers lock to keep the doors shut.

Both the top and the waterproof bottom are washable and both unzip so that they can be removed for easy cleaning. The entire playpen easily folds flat in a matter of seconds for easy transportation to the park, the yard, the patio, or anywhere else you want to take your cat.

I also found this playpen the perfect size for containing a litter of kittens I was fostering. I needed a way to keep them out of mischief without blocking off my kitchen or bathroom. This is a perfect size. The kittens have everything they need in this roomy enclosure and I know they aren’t getting into trouble during the times I can’t watch them.

The Outback Jack Kitty Compound comes in two parts: a cat tent and a cat tunnel. The two parts zip together to give your cat room to roam or relax in safety. The tent measures 4.5 feet on a side and is about 36 inches tall when set up. The kitty run stretches to 62 inches long and is 17 inches across.

Setting up is quick and easy. Set the pen where you want it and pull up on the rope to lift the center of the tent until it snaps in place. Zip the tunnel in place over the door to add plenty of space for your kitty to roam. The mesh floor ensures your pet can’t escape.

No matter which direction your cat looks out, she can see everything around her. The mesh walls provide an unobstructed 360-degree view to make sure she doesn’t miss a thing. She can even see straight up through the mesh ceiling to watch birds, clouds, or just enjoy the sun.

Take down of the tent is quick and easy as well. Disconnect the tunnel by unzipping it from the main tent. Then, simply unlock the top connector and fold the tent down, then slide the whole thing into the included carry bag and you’re ready to go.

This fabric playpen features an octagonal shape that is about 45 inches across and 24 inches tall. The top is all mesh and zippers in place to keep your cat from escaping. The bottom is washable and waterproof, and it zips out to make it easy to clean. The door panels also have sturdy zippers, plus six of the panels have lower sections made from oxford cloth.

This playpen is highly portable and comes with a travel case so you can take it anywhere you want your feline friend to have access to fresh air and sunshine. Pockets on the outside of the panels make it simple for you to stash treats, toys, or a water bottle so your cat has what he needs when you’re ready to give it to him.

A quick and simple setup makes it easy to use this playpen. When you’re done it folds down in a few seconds and you’re ready to go. If you don’t need it all the time it’s easy to store in its travel case. Slip it into the closet, a drawer, or under a bed to keep it accessible but out of the way when it’s not needed. This cat playpen is a simple solution to the problem of how to get your cat outside safely.

his large, sturdy cat play enclosure gives your cat room to play outdoors in a safe environment that will discourage or repel predators that might hurt her. The entire pen measures 77 inches x 38 inches x 69 inches and includes both indoor and outdoor space.

The two-story indoor space consists of an upper section that featuring double doors to allow your pet to be an a fully-enclosed resting area. The horizontal shelf that divides this part of the enclosure means that your pet can choose his resting spots, or there’s room for two, each with his own space. Windows covered with wire mesh keep your cat safe inside.

The area below the indoor space is enclosed on three sides, but the fourth side is completely open, allowing your cat to rest inside but still easily view the world around her. The horizontal shelf dividing this area means that more than one cat can comfortably enjoy this section, too.

A large section of the pen consists of wood and wire panels fastened together to make an outdoor play area. Ramps lead up into the structure, making it easy for your kitty to get from place to place. You know your cat is safe and secure in this large, airy enclosure.

When you don’t have a lot of space for a cat pen, this Ruff ‘n Ruffus folding pen may be just what you need. It measures 29 inches across and is 17 inches high. Safely bring your pet into tiny backyards or onto a patio, balcony, or deck. He’ll love the change of scenery and the chance to enjoy some sunshine.

The zippered door means that your pet will stay safe inside, and the zippered top can be removed if you need access to the pen. The top also features a shade panel, so you don’t need to worry about your kitty being unable to escape the sun. This way she can choose sunshine or shade for maximum comfort.

This playpen sets up quickly, plus it’s easy to take down. It folds into a compact size and slips safely into the included carrying case for travel or storage. A bonus collapsible food dish simplifies outings even more and is the perfect accessory for this playpen.

The ToysOpoly #1 Premium Pet Playpen provides your cat 45 inches of room to stretch out and play in. The octagonal design includes a zippered door and eight mesh panels, some featuring oxford cloth lower sections and outer pockets capable of storing treats and a lot of chew toys. An attached band provides a place to put a water bottle if you wish, a great alternative to a water bowl where the water can easily be spilled.

The zippered top removes completely for indoor use, or zips on securely to give your cat safety and shade. The washable bottom of the pen zips in using a strong metal zipper, keeping even very curious kitties inside, yet it removes easily when it needs cleaning.

Moving the playpen takes almost no time at all. It folds down for storage into an included storage pouch, yet pops up quickly to full size when it’s needed. Four sturdy ground stakes included in the package mean you can secure the playpen in one spot. The wind won’t be able to grab it away, even if it’s empty.

Set up the Happy Habitat Cat Tent in a flash and your pet will soon be enjoying the spacious play area that measures about 54 inches on each side. The peak is 36 inches high, so your cat won’t feel restricted by a low ceiling.

This all-mesh enclosure is supported by lightweight poles that are a breeze to move. Set requires a pull on the center rope to erect the tent, taking all of a few seconds to accomplish. Taking it down is quick as well, and the entire tent slides easily into an included travel bag.

Your kitty gets a full, 360-degree view from this mesh tent. No sides are blocked by solid panels or other obstructions. Two tent pegs come with the cat tent, so staking it in place on your lawn or other soft surface takes just a minute and adds security against the wind or active kitties.

A round door panel sits on one side and offers easy access for your pets. The sturdy zipper makes sure the door stays closed to that even inquiring kittens can’t find a way to slip out. When your pet is done for the day the tent is easy to pick up and bring inside to protect it from other animals and bad weather.

Sized at 43 inches by 23 inches, and just 18 inches high, the pet enclosure from Nala and Company is perfect for tight spaces. There’s enough room inside this portable cat house to allow your pet to move around and stretch out, but it will still fit into small spots that other outdoor enclosures can’t.

Whether you live in a small apartment or like to travel in your RV, this cat house is sized just right to go with you. It doesn’t need a lot of area to set it up, and your cat can enjoy the outdoors without the risk of getting lost or injured by cars, dogs, or other hazards.

If your kitty is clever at finding a way to open things, you’ll be relieved to know that the dual zipper on the door has a latch to keep curious claws from unzipping it. The sturdy bottom wipes clean, with PVC reinforcing for extra durability.

It’s no trick to set up the cat house. No poles to fiddle with or any other complicated requirements. It pops open easily, and when you’re ready it folds closed and slides into the included travel pouch.

Buying Guide

If you want to give your cat some outdoor space, consider a few things before you decide to buy. Thinking about your needs ahead of time will help you make good decisions when it comes to picking the right cat playpen.

How Big?

How big of a playpen you need depends on a few factors. First, how many cats is this for? It’s no good buying a small space when you want to put three or four cats into it. Make sure the space fits the number of pets you have. But you’ll have to balance that out with the amount of room you have to put out the playpen. If you have a tiny yard, or a small balcony on your apartment, one of the larger cat cages isn’t going to fit. Measure your space before you buy, to make sure you have enough room.

Is it Portable?

Most cat playpens are lightweight and portable, making them ideal for moving them around. If you want to be able to bring your pet to the park or allow her to be out front on a patch of grass, a high degree of portability is needed. If you want something more permanent, it’s better to choose a solid playpen that stays where you put it. You should also think about a cat house for outdoors.

How Safe is It?

The safety of a cat playpen is partly about your cat’s actions. Can he find a way to escape? Look for sturdy zippers that can be fastened in place so that your cat can’t move them and get out. Another important safety issue concerns dogs and predators. A mesh tent will not keep out a large dog or hungry coyote. A cat playpen makes life fun for your pet, but be prepared to be present at all times your cat is in it.

How Hard is it to Get the Cat in or Out?

Check out the doors on any cat playpens you are considering. A space with only one door might prove difficult when it comes to bringing your kitty out if she’s reluctant to come. Multiple doors make it easier to reach in from either side and lift out your pet when it’s time to go back into the house.

What Else?

Look carefully at the assembly instructions. Do you need tools to put up the playpen? What about cleaning? Is the floor removable and washable? That can make a big difference if your cat makes a mess in there. What about storage? Does the playpen come with a pouch or other container to store it in?

Considering what you need for your pet helps ensure that you make the right choice when it’s time to buy. Once you select a playpen, set it up in a safe place and let your pet enjoy the day.