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There are several types of cat playpens out there and it can be difficult to know which one to choose, that’s why we crated this cat playpen guide where we list our favourite cat playpens, as well as a buyers guide full of useful information on important factors when choosing a cat playpen.
In a hurry?
Here’s a quick overview of the best cat playpens in each category.
- – Best indoor cat playpen – MidWest Cat Playpen
- – Best outdoor cat playpen – Outback Jack Outdoor Cat playpen
- – Best budget cat playpen – Wildwhiskers Outdoor Feline Funhouse
- – Best portable cat playpen – Ruff ‘n Ruffus Portable Foldable Pet Playpen
Top Cat Playpens of 2023
Below are some recommended cat playpens. They have been specially chosen to fit your lifestyle.
MidWest Cat Playpen
Specifications
- Size: 36 x 23.5 x 50.50 inches
- Area:
- Material: Metal
More about MidWest Cat Playpen
If you are looking for something more permanent, then this metal cat playpen is exactly what you need. Built to last and easily accessible, it provides a really cool hangout space for your cat. The playpen is not that wide which makes it perfect for small spaces. Instead it’s tall with a covered top, so your cat can’t escape. If you live in a small apartment, this might just be what you need.
Pros
- Collapsible Fold Down Design
- Great for small spaces
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Not the easiest to assemble
- Not that sturdy
Outback Jack Outdoor Cat Playpen
Specifications
- Size:74 x 63 x 36 inches
- Area:
- Material: Nylon
More about Outback Jack Outdoor Cat Playpen
Made from mesh, this playpen comes in the form of a tent and is great for giving your pet a day out in the sun. The mesh material means that your kitty can take in the view from any side of the playpen. Even though it can be used indoors, it is quite large, so if you don’t have the necessary square feet indoors, it will work best as an outdoor playpen. It is easy to set up and folds into an easy to carry bag. Definitely handy for carrying around, which makes it great for a day at the park or for camping with your cat.
Pros
- Portable and lightweight
- Great for indoor cats
- Can be used both indoor and outdoor
Cons
- Not the easiest to assemble
- Not that sturdy
Wildwhiskers Outdoor Feline Funhouse
Specifications
- Size:72L x 34W x 28H inches
- Area:
- Material: Nylon Mesh
More about Wildwhiskers Outdoor Feline Funhouse
This is another mesh playpen and is a nice way to give an indoor cat an outside day. Easy to set up, it provides a safe space for your cat to play and have fun in the sun. It is not very sturdy on the ground though and can easily be moved by a cat so if you are using this, you would need to get something heavy to keep it solid on the ground. Remember that it is not safe to leave your cat unattended outdoors.
Pros
- Light weight
- Great for kittens
Cons
- Not escape proof
- Not that sturdy
Ruff ‘n Ruffus Portable Foldable Pet Playpen
Specifications
- Size:29 x 29 x 17 inches
- Area:
- Material: Polyester
Ruff ‘n Ruffus Portable Foldable Pet Playpen
This playpen comes with a carrying case, a collapsible water bowl and removable shades. Made with water resistant material, this portable playpen is a great way for your cat to travel in style. Lightweight and easy to carry, it is made with the safety of your cat in mind. This playpen is suitable for all kind of cats, regardless of the size, it is roomy and comfortable and your cat is going to love it. Although this playpen might not be suitable for every kind of pet, it works perfectly well for cats. It is strong, durable and sturdy.
Pros
- Easy to fold
- Great for travel
Cons
- Not that sturdy
Things to Consider When Choosing a Cat Playpen
With all these different cat playpens out there, how do you choose the right one for your cat? Basically, it is matter of your cat’s safety and your convenience.
1. Safety
Is the playpen completely safe for your cat? If the answer is yes, then the playpen might be worth considering. It should also be sturdy on the ground to prevent your cat to be able to move it around. If there is a latch, make sure it’s solid and not one that any intelligent cat can escape the playpen.
You also want to make sure that there’s no sharp points or edges which could harm your cat. For metal playpens, the space between the bars should be close together to prevent your cat to try to escape the playpen.
2. Comfort
Cats are creatures of comfort so you need to make sure that it’s furnished with a cat bed, some fun toys and food and water especially if you’re going to leave your cat in it for a longer period of time. If the playpen is not comfortable, your cat will not like it and will protest loudly if you insist on placing her in the playpen.
3. Indoors or Outdoors or Both?
Where will you primarily make use of the playpen? Most cat playpens can be used both indoors and outdoors. However, there are those that are not quite portable and not very easy to move around.
If you only going to use the playpen in one place, you might consider one of the less portable versions.
For cat playpens used outdoor, it is a good idea to get one that is water resistant and easy to clean.
4. Traveling
A portable cat playpen is the best option if you’re planing on travel with your cat. These kind of playpens are often lightweight, foldable and easy to setup and dismantle. Foldable cat playpens are usually made from mesh and fabric, although there are some that are made with plastic materials as well.
In Conclusion
A cat playpen is a great idea if you want to give your cat a nice, safe space to play, a place your pet can retreat to whenever he feels the need. It is also a nice way to introduce an indoor cat to the outside.
There are several types of cat playpens out there, however once you are clear about your needs, choosing the right one will be much easier.
