If you have a pregnant cat, you know how important it is to give her a safe, quiet, comfortable space to have her kittens. A nesting box is the perfect solution — but store-bought options can be expensive, or too big for small apartments.
You’ve probably asked yourself:
- How do I make a nesting box for my pregnant cat at home?
- What size should a cat nesting box be?
- What do I put inside a cat nesting box?
You’re in the right place. This easy 2026 DIY guide will show you how to make a simple, comfortable nesting box for your cat, with just a few basic supplies — no fancy tools required.
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How to Make a Nesting Box for Cats: 5 Easy Steps
You don’t need a lot of supplies to make a great nesting box for your cat. Here’s what you’ll need first:
- A large cardboard box (or a foldable fabric storage box, if you want something reusable)
- A utility knife
- Soft, washable bedding (old blankets, towels, or pet beds)
- Tape
- Non-toxic paint (optional, if you want to decorate it)
Step 1: Cut the Entrance
First, cut a 6-8 inch wide entrance hole in the front of the box, about 3-4 inches from the bottom. This is low enough for your cat to get in easily, but high enough to keep the kittens from crawling out when they’re tiny.
Step 2: Reinforce the Box
Use tape to reinforce all the corners and edges of the box, so it doesn’t fall apart when your cat moves around. If you’re using a cardboard box, this will make it sturdier.
Step 3: Add the Bedding
Line the bottom of the box with 2-3 inches of soft, washable bedding. Avoid blankets with loose threads, which can wrap around kittens’ legs — old fleece blankets or pet-safe bedding work best.
Step 4: Add a Lid (Optional)
If you want to make the box extra quiet and private, you can add a lid. Just cut a piece of cardboard to fit the top of the box, and tape it on one side so it opens like a door. This will keep the box dark and quiet, which pregnant cats love.
Step 5: Set It Up in a Quiet Place
Put the box in a quiet, low-traffic area of your home, away from dogs, kids, or loud noises. A spare bedroom closet, or a corner of your bedroom, works perfectly.
If you don’t have time to make a DIY nesting box, our foldable cat nesting box is the perfect ready-made solution. It’s pre-assembled, washable, foldable for storage, and designed to be the perfect size for pregnant cats and kittens.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How big should a nesting box for cats be?
A: A cat nesting box should be about 18×24 inches, and 12 inches tall. This is big enough for the mom cat and her kittens, but small enough to feel safe and cozy.
Q: What do you put in a nesting box for cats?
A: Put soft, washable bedding inside the box — old fleece blankets, towels, or pet-safe bedding work best. Avoid anything with loose threads, which can hurt tiny kittens.
Q: When should I put out the nesting box for my pregnant cat?
A: Put the nesting box out about 1-2 weeks before your cat’s due date, so she has time to get used to it and make it her own.
Q: Can I use a fabric box instead of cardboard?
A: Yes! Fabric nesting boxes are even better — they’re washable, foldable for storage, and sturdier than cardboard, so you can reuse them for future litters.
Final Thoughts
Making a nesting box for your cat is easy, and it’s a great way to give your pregnant cat a safe, comfortable space to have her kittens. But if you don’t have time to DIY, a ready-made foldable fabric nesting box is the perfect solution.
For pet brands, Amazon sellers, and retail buyers looking to offer these popular pet products to your customers, our custom foldable cat nesting boxes are designed to be the perfect small-space solution. With low MOQs, full customization, and pet-safe materials, we help you build a best-selling product for 2026.
