While it is recommended that cats live in freedom inside the owner’s home, there are certain situations where a cat cage is a necessity. If you are new to adopting cats or introducing a new cat to your home, chances are you will want to train them to use a litter box and treat your home with respect. A cat cage can help encourage your cat to use a litter box by keeping them in a confined space until they are trained. If you have multiple cats, cat cages are helpful to narrow down which cat has a health or behavioral issue by placing them one at a time alone in the cage until you determine which one needs attention.
If your cat tends to disappear on vet visit days or when he needs medication, a cat cage can save you time trying to locate your cat. It is also useful when you are moving or traveling. You will always know where your cat is and he will be able to be in a familiar place while his environment is changing. Interested in purchasing a cat cage but do not know where to start? We reviewed dozens of cat cages to identify the best of the best. Check out our top five selections that give your cat enough space to be safe, easy to assemble and clean, and travel-friendly.
Perfect for small spaces, the Midwest Cat Playpen / Cat Cage will not let you down. Constructed with strong metal, easy to maneuver doors for cleaning, and quickly folds flat for travel.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Cat Cages
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Midwest Cat Playpen / Cat Cage | 4.6 |
| Runner Up | Prevue Pet Products Premium/Deluxe Cat Home | 3.9 |
| Best Budget Buy | Necoichi Portable Stress Free Cat Cage | 4.1 |
| Best Indoor | IRIS Multi-Level Cat Condo/Cage | 3.4 |
| Best Outdoor | PawHut Large Wooden Outdoor Cat Enclosure Catio Cage with Ramp and Covered House | 4.8 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change.
Our Top Pick: Midwest Cat Playpen / Cat Cage
This cat cage is built to last. If you are looking for a versatile cat cage that accommodates 1-3 cats, this is our top pick. The cat cage is built with strong metal wire and a coated finished so you will never have to worry about rust.
It features two sets of large cabinet style doors on the top and bottom levels of the cat cage with secure door latches so you can easily retrieve your cats and give the entire cage a regular cleaning with ease. It also includes a deluxe chenille cat bed that is secured and perfectly fits one of the three available resting platforms for supreme cat relaxation. A leak-proof plastic pan that is perfect for housing a messy litter box, and 4-wheel casters that lock so you can easily change your cat’s scenery or give them some personal space when you have house guests. Plus, it folds down so you can take it with you on your travels or store it away in a closet until needed.
Whether you live in a small space and need a safe place to keep your cats or run a cat shelter or rescue, the Midwest Cat Playpen / Cat Cage is an excellent choice to keep both cats and cat owners happy.
Midwest Cat Playpen / Cat Cage Key Features:
- Built to last with strong metal wire and coated finish
- Large cabinet doors (for easy cleaning)
- Deluxe chenille cat bed included
- Leak-proof plastic pan
- Wheel casters
Our Runner Up Pick: Prevue Pet Products Premium/Deluxe Cat Home
The Prevue Pet Products Premium/Deluxe Cat Home is easy to assemble and provides your cats with three deluxe spaces to jump and relax on. Two platforms feature soft felt covers and snap in securely to the cage frame. One extra-large plush hammock will keep your cats safe and entertained. Covers and hammock are machine washable.
The cat home is built with heavy duty, rust-resistant aluminum, a black matte finish, and two generously size doors so you can easily access the three deluxe spaces as well as the bottom interior for quick cleaning. Doors close securely with a simple two-finger locking mechanism that can be opened with one hand. Absolutely no gaps or pinch points to keep your cats cozy and safe. Use the rubber casters to move the lightweight cage around your home as needed.
Use the large, one-piece base to add additional toys for your cat’s entertainment such as scratching posts. Great for three larger cats or for young kittens. This cat cage is perfect for quarantining a sick cat or retraining a cat that does not like to use the litter box.
Prevue Pet Products Premium/Deluxe Cat Home Key Features:
- No gaps or pinch points
- Two platforms and hammock included
- Built with rust-resistant aluminum
- Wheel casters
Best Budget Pick: Necoichi Portable Stress-Free Cat Cage
If you do not have a hundred dollars to spend on a cat cage but need one right away, you should consider purchasing the Necoichi Portable Stress-Free Cat Cage. There is no assembly needed and it pops up instantly to provide a safe place for your cat. The fabric is thick and durable. It also works great for having guests over, traveling, a private, stress-free area, and in a disaster/emergency situation.
Large enough to fit two adult cats and tall enough for them to able to walk and move around normally. The cat cage features an included storage carrying bag and a removable waterproof fleece mat. The fleece mat is easy to clean when needed. A Necoichi Portable Cat Litter Box can be purchased separately to use the cat cage for longer periods or training a cat to use a litter box.
Mesh panels can be rolled up for increased ventilation and zipper locks can be used to prevent your cat from escaping while you are away. Great for long road trips.
Necoichi Portable Stress-Free Cat Cage Key Features:
- No assembly
- Zipper locks
- Great for travel
- Waterproof fleece mat and storage bag included
Best Indoor Cat Cage: IRIS Multi-Level Cat Condo/Cage
Some cat cages can be bulky and not blend in with your home decor. The IRIS Multi-Level Cat Condo/Cage is available in white/beige for a aesthetically pleasing neutral color pallet. It is also available in white/yellow to compliment a bright, modern style.
With three levels, there is ample room to add a litter box, toys or scratching posts. With four wheels, easily move the cat cage to different areas of your home without disturbing your cats. The top opens for additional access, while doors on every level make it easy to retrieve your cat or clean one level at a time. To open and secure the doors, simply use the easy twist open door latches.
A unique feature is that the door hooks can leave the doors propped open. Perfect for when you cat wants access to the cage but prefers to have the freedom to roam around.
Use the cat cage in small apartments, cat rescues and pet grooming shops. The cage can also accommodate birds and other small animals.
IRIS Multi-Level Cat Condo/Cage Key Features:
- Easy twist door latches
- Door hooks allow for convenient in and out
- Top opens for additional access
- Aesthetically pleasing design
- Wheel casters
Best Outdoor Cat Cage: PawHut Large Wooden Outdoor Cat Enclosure Catio Cage with Ramp and Covered House
If you cat needs some fresh air in his life, this stylish, fully enclosed outdoor cat cage is the perfect addition to your outdoor patio or backyard. Join the “catio” or cat patio craze. The PawHut Large Wooden Outdoor Cat Enclosure Catio Cage is constructed with solid fir wood, finished with animal safe, non-toxic sealant, and features a strong metal enclosure. The flat roof is coated with asphalt so you will not have to worry about frequent maintenance and your cats will be protected from excess sun and rain. Whether you have one cat or multiple cats, this cat cage has plenty of room for your feline friends to relax and play.
The two-story main house has a window, sliding door, a hinged door, and a ramp for multiple access points and views. The large front door is an excellent access point to retrieve or place your cat into the enclosure.
Additional features include, shelf space for a cat bed, litter box or toys, and a long ramp for multi-cat play. Also works for other small to medium size pets such as dogs, squirrels or foxes.
PawHut Large Wooden Outdoor Cat Enclosure Catio Cage with Ramp and Covered House Key Features:
- Fully enclosed
- Two levels
- Solid wood with non-toxic sealant
- Weatherproof design
- Over-sized door
Who Should Buy a Cat Cage
Cat cages are mostly used by cat owners who are introducing a cat to their new home, family or other pets. Cages can also be used to care for a cat that is ill, keep fragile kittens safe or help secure cats who have litter box or Houdini behavioral issues.
It is important to note that cats should not be kept in cages as a permanent form of housing. They are meant to be temporary in the case of fostering cats, treating or training a cat and for protecting an outdoor cat that might be in danger from other animals or the elements. Cats should be exercised daily to ensure good mental and physical health. Cages should not be used as a punishment but as a place to relax, eat, go to the bathroom or as a safe place to play. Be sure to put some cat toys or even a cat tree in your cat’s cage, depending on the size of the cage, to keep your favorite feline entertained.
Some cat cages can fold up or collapse to a smaller size making them great for travel. If you are traveling with your cats, you should consider a portable cat cage to keep them safe in your car and also to contain them when you reach your destination. Always make sure your cat cage can accommodate the size of cat you have. A litter box is a must if you are traveling long distances. Take frequent breaks when traveling to give your cat food, treats and water so they feel comfortable in their new environment.
Important Features to Consider
- Safety. Any cat cage you purchase must be constructed well to prevent any injury to your pet. High quality construction will also guarantee that your cat cage will last a long time. Look for cages without gaps at crossover points to ensure your pet’s paws will not get caught in between the bars.
- Space. A cat cage should accommodate the number of cats and size of cats that it is intended for. The larger the space, the less stress a cat will feel in the cage. Consider purchasing a cat cage with multiple levels so that the cats can jump and have room to exercise as well as relax. If your cat will be spending time in the cage while you are at work or you live in a space that requires you to keep all of your cat’s things in a small area, purchase a cage that has room for a regular size litter box, toys and a scratching post.
- Assembly. Nobody wants to spend their whole weekend trying to put a cat cage together. When you are bringing home a new cat or already dealing with a wild one, you just want a cage that is grab and go. Look for cat cages that are portable. Portable cat cages need to be able to be disassembled quickly for storage and travel which means they are probably faster to assemble as well.
- Portability. If you lack extra room, search for a cat cage that can be easily folded or collapsed for easy storage. A portable cat cage can also be handy for traveling with cats or if you only use the cage when family or friends visit. Casters are also a handy feature to consider. Find cat cages that have locking casters so that you can easily move the cage from room to room, but can also lock the wheels so the cats’ movements will not change the location of the cage.
- Doors. A good cat cage will have large doors that open on every level. You need to be able to access every nook and cranny easily to keep the cat cage clean and sanitized. Bonus if the doors have a lock that can be opened with one hand and not easily picked by your most mischievous cat.
- Accessories. A cat cage that comes with cat beds or hammocks can be a great cost savings. Not having to purchase extra accessories and know that the beds will perfectly fit the shelves inside the cat cage is a win-win.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it ok to cage a cat at night?
It is generally not recommended to keep your cat in a cage at night, especially if it becomes a nightly practice. Ask yourself why you want to put your cat in a cage at night. Is the cat noisy? Does it tend to disappear at night? Does your cat like to urinate outside of the litter box? While caging your cat may eliminate the above issues, it is important to note that caging your cat permanently at night is not ideal for the cat or the cat owner. Most cats that act up at night are not getting enough mental and physical exercise throughout the day. If you decide to cage your cat at night, make sure there is a litter box inside the cage.
How big should a cat cage be?
The size of your cat cage should be large enough for your cat to freely move around and be comfortable. Use a smaller, portable cage if you will be transporting your pet to the vet or traveling. Choose a larger cage if your home allows or you will be using the cage outdoors.
Should you keep kittens in a cage?
Keeping kittens in a cage with a litter box for the first few weeks of their life can help litter train them for their rest of their lives. Only having room in the cage for food, water and the litter box forces the kittens to use the litter box to keep the rest of the area clean. It can also be helpful to keep kittens caged in order to keep them safe. New kittens may be fearful exploring right away and can tend to hide and get into mischief. You can cage the kittens at night or while you are away to ensure their safety.
Is it okay to leave your cat in a cage all day?
It is not advised to leave your cat in a cage all day. Cats need mental and physical exercise. They should be taken out of the cage frequently so they can explore new areas, It is important to give your cat space to walk and play.
Other Cat Cages We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other cat cages. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best cat cages list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option for your cat. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
Indoor Cat Cages
SONGMICS Multi-Tier Cat Playpen, Cat Cage, Cat Condo
The Songmics cat cage is like a resort for your favorite felines. Doors are optional, allowing your cats to come and go as they please.
Key Features:
- Open air balcony
- Doors are optional
- Very small gaps in metal grates to prevent stuck paws
Cost: $93.00
20 IRIS Wire Pet Cage/Cat Playpen
If you have limited space, the IRIS Wire Pet Cage will easily fit in shelters and apartments.
Key Features:
- Molded base with heavy-duty powder-coated wire
- 6 wheel casters for easy moving
- Locking casters
Cost: $99
Giantex Cat Playpen Cat Cage with 3 Climbing Ladders & 3 Rest Benches & Cushion
Your cats will love the mental and physical exercise they get from the 3 climbing ladders.
Key Features:
- Lockable wheels
- 3 Ladders and resting benches
- Easy assembly
Cost: $87.00
YesHom Large Cat Pets Wire Cage 2 Door Playpen with Hammock 2 Ramp Ladders
Unique design that will encourage your cats to play and rest.
Key Features:
- Sturdy structure with rectangular tubes on the main frame
- Slide out tray
- Wheel casters
Cost: $98.00
This cat cage folds flat for easy storage when not in use.
Key Features:
- No tool assembly
- Spring-loaded latches for extra security
- Perches can be moved in different positions
Cost: $216
Yaheetech 4-Tier Kitten Cat Ferret Cage
This 4-tier cat cage folds down flat for storage and includes a free hammock, bed and ladders. Recommended for 1 to 3 cats or other small animals.
Key Features:
- Folds flat for storage
- Free accessories
- Easy access doors
Cost: $86.00
YML 4-Level Small Animal Chichilla Cat Ferret Cage
Get your cats to exercise with this cage that features ladders connected to multi-tier platforms.
Key Features:
- 2 large front doors
- 3 platforms and ladders
- 3/8″ floor grate comfort bar spacing
Outdoor Cat Cages
Homey Pet New Two Tier Heavy Duty Cage Kennel w/Casters and Feeding Bowls
Safely feed your cats while they are enjoying their large leisure space.
Key Features:
- Feeding doors
- Pull out trays for easy cleaning
- Lockable casters
Cost: $390
La Luna Pet Care Cat Enclosure
Modular cat enclosure that is easy to build to suit the size of your cat or the area of your space.
Key Features:
- Tool free assembly
- Lightweight and portable
- Anti rust aluminum frame
Cost: $199
Tomahawk Neighborhood Cat Transfer Cage
Great for cats that are hard to catch. Easy to load into a vehicle for vet visits.
Key Features:
- Easy release door
- Large double handles
- Galvanized wire mesh
Cost: $77
ToysOpoly #1 Premium Pet Playpen – Large 45” Indoor/Outdoor Cage
Spacious play area with no assembly required. Folds flat when not in use.
Key Features:
- Ready to go out of the package
- Protected seams and reinforced corners
- Zippered door
Cost: $40
JAXPETY Cat Wooden House Small Animal Outdoor Pen Cage Dog Cat Play Enclosure
Weather-resistant wooden house that will keep your cats safe and entertained while they enjoy the outdoors.
Key Features:
- Houses multiple cats
- Green asphalt roof for durability
- Wall mount or freestanding
Cost: $271
Prevue Pet Products Premium/Deluxe Cat Home
Well-built, 3-story cage with platforms, hammocks and easy to use doors.
Key Features:
- No gaps or pinch points
- Easy to assemble
- 2 extra large hammocks and 2 lock-in platforms included
Cost: $157
Modular Cage with Plastic Tray in Ivory
Adding more pets to your family? These modular cages stack when your feline friendly home grows.
Key Features:
- Stack-able or standalone
- Powder-coated steel
- Locking removable divider panel
Cost: $252
Great for groomers, shelters and more, this cat cage will last you for the long haul.
Key Features:
- Fully assembled
- Locking casters
- Waste draining system
Budget-Friendly Cat Cages
Pet Fit For Life Large Collapsible/Portable Cat Cage/Condo with Portable Litter Box
Travel with ease when you choose the Pet Fit For Life cat cage with lined litter box, washable, velour bed pad and collapsible bowl.
Key Features:
- Collapsible litter box and bowl
- Guaranteed durable, nylon fabric
- Large enough for 2 adult cats
Cost: $46
Cool Runners Tall Boy Small Wire Pet Crate With Bonus Faux Sheepskin Mattress
This cat cage is affordable, folds flat for storage and great for travel. Includes a free sheepskin mattress that fits perfectly in the bottom of the cage.
Key Features:
- Easy to carry
- Quick assembly
- Resists rust, made of non-toxic materials
Cost: $30.00
Little Giant Pet Lodge Small Single Door Wire Pet Crate
This cat cage is easy to clean and secure for home or travel.
Key Features:
- Removable plastic tray
- Secure latches
- Rounded corners for safety and sleek design
Cost: $58
Wildwhiskers Outdoor Feline Funhouse
Your cats will be safe outdoors in their portable mesh playhouse.
Key Features:
- Light weight
- Easy to store (includes storage bag)
- Weather resistant
Cost: $60
AmazonBasics 3-Tier Cat Cage Playpen
If you have multiple cats, this is a budget-friendly cage that has practical features.
Key Features:
- Fold down design
- 3 shelves for resting or playtime
- Removable leak-proof floor pan
Cost: $85
