Living in Georgia comes with a mix of weather conditions—mild winters, hot summers, and plenty of humidity and rain in between. If you’re caring for an outdoor cat (or several!) in the Peach State, finding the right cat house is more than just picking the cutest option. The material you choose—plastic or wood—can make a big difference in comfort, cleanliness, and long-term durability.
In this article, we’ll explore how plastic and wood cat houses perform specifically in Georgia’s climate and how to decide which is best for your furry outdoor friend. We’ll also reference other guides in this series that dig deeper into how these materials compare in cold weather and for large cats.
Georgia Weather Considerations for Outdoor Cats
Before we break down the materials, let’s look at the key climate factors you need to plan for in Georgia:
- Mild to chilly winters: Snow is rare, but the temperatures can still drop to freezing overnight.
- Hot, humid summers: Long stretches of high heat and humidity.
- Heavy rainfall: Especially in spring and summer storms.
Your outdoor cat house should address all of these variables, providing warmth in cooler months, ventilation in summer, and resistance to moisture year-round.
Plastic Cat Houses in Georgia
Plastic cat houses are typically made of molded materials like PVC or polyethylene and are known for being lightweight and waterproof.
Pros in Georgia:
- Waterproof Material: Ideal for rainy months—water won’t soak in or cause rot.
- Low Maintenance: Wipe it down or hose it off when needed.
- Affordable Options: Budget-friendly models are easy to find.
Cons in Georgia:
- Heat Buildup in Summer: Plastic can trap heat, turning the inside into an oven during sweltering days.
- Limited Breathability: Unless it has proper vents, airflow can be a challenge.
- Not Naturally Insulating: You’ll need to add insulation for the cooler months, even if they’re mild.
If you choose plastic, opt for a model with some shade, air vents, and ideally an insulating liner or insert for winter.
Wood Cat Houses in Georgia
Wooden cat houses are often built from cedar, pine, or fir, and have a more natural, rustic aesthetic.
Pros in Georgia:
- Better Insulation: Helps buffer both heat and cold naturally.
- Customizable Ventilation: You can add vents, shades, or modify the structure easily.
- Sturdy Construction: Holds up well against wind and active animals.
Cons in Georgia:
- Needs Waterproofing: Wood can rot in Georgia’s humidity and rain unless treated.
- Heavier and Less Portable: Not ideal if you need to move it often.
- Higher Initial Cost: But possibly more long-lasting with care.
Look for houses made from rot-resistant wood (like cedar) and add a weatherproof sealant to prevent water damage.
Which Material Works Best in Georgia?
Choosing the right material depends on where you live in Georgia, how exposed the area is, and whether your cat is free-roaming or stays close to home.
Plastic Might Be Better If:
- You live in a coastal or very rainy area (like Savannah)
- You want low-maintenance upkeep
- You can place the house in the shade and add cooling features
Wood Might Be Better If:
- You’re in a cooler or more wooded region (like North Georgia)
- You prefer long-term durability
- You’re willing to weatherproof and maintain the house seasonally
Related Reads in This Series
To get the full picture on how each material stacks up, don’t miss the other guides in this series:
- Difference Between Plastic and Wood Outdoor Cat Houses for Winter – Ideal if you want tips for preparing for those unexpected Georgia cold snaps.
- Difference Between Plastic and Wood Outdoor Cat Houses for Large Cats – A must-read if you’re housing a big kitty or more than one cat.
Tips for Georgia Cat Parents
- Place the House in Shade During Summer: Under a tree, porch, or carport is ideal.
- Elevate the House: Keeps it dry and discourages bugs or mold from Georgia’s humidity.
- Straw Bedding for All Seasons: It’s moisture-repellent and keeps cats warm and comfy.
- Add a Cooling Mat for Summer: These can help regulate the temperature inside plastic houses.
- Use Non-Toxic Sealants: If waterproofing wood, make sure it’s safe for pets.
Final Thoughts
Georgia’s climate throws a little bit of everything at you, so your cat house needs to be versatile. Plastic offers great moisture resistance with less maintenance, but may need cooling adjustments in summer. Wood is breathable and insulates better but requires more care and attention to moisture control.
Either option can work beautifully when properly set up for the seasons. The key is understanding your cat’s habits, your home’s surroundings, and being proactive about maintenance.
And remember: If you’re ever unsure about what’s safest or most comfortable for your cat, reach out to your veterinarian for advice—especially during weather extremes.
We hope this helped! For more guides like this, keep exploring the series at OutdoorCatHouses.org—because keeping outdoor cats safe and comfortable is what we’re all about.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional veterinary advice.