Introduction & Research

For assignment 2 I have chosen to create a cat house for an American shorthair Cat.

The typical American Shorthair Cat has an overall height of 8”-10” (20-25 cm) and body
length of 12”-15” (30-38 cm). An average American Shorthair Cat weighs between 10-
15 lb (4.5-6.8 kg) and has a typical lifespan of 15-20 years.

A good size shelter/cathouse should be 2 feet by 3 feet and at least 18 inches high.
Larger isn't always better, because the heat will disperse quickly, and the cats will need
a warm shelter during the winter. A space large enough for three to five cats to huddle
is perfect. (American Shorthair Cat. n.d)

I have designed an average size cat house which, even though, is big for a single cat,
keeping in mind 2 things:

1. If this is used indoors, blankets or cat beds can be added to this as cats prefer
snug and soft surroundings.
2. If this is used outdoors, there is enough room to add a 1” insolation layer all
around inside along with a cat bed or a blanket.

A cant house doorway should only be big enough for cats—about 6-8 inches wide to
help keep out other animals. Face the entry away from the wind or use a door flap or L-
shaped entry to keep out the elements. (Providing shelter.n.d)

House length: 2’ - 0”
House width: 3’- 0”
House height (slope): 2’- 0” to 1’- 6”
Doorway width: 0’ - 8”
References
American Shorthair Cat Dimensions & Drawings. RSS. (n.d.). Retrieved October 30, 2021,
from https://www.dimensions.com/element/american-shorthair-cat.

Providing shelter. Alley Cat Allies. (n.d.). Retrieved October 30, 2021, from
https://www.alleycat.org/community-cat-care/providing-shelter/.

Image Reference
American Shorthair Cat Dimensions & Drawings. RSS. (n.d.). Retrieved October 30, 2021,
from https://www.dimensions.com/element/american-shorthair-cat.