Why does a small cat den's size matter?

An enclosed space gives a cat a sense of security by limiting the directions stimuli can come from - but that effect only works when the den's walls are close enough for the cat to feel their presence. A small cat in an oversized den ends up lying in the middle of open space - they don't feel sheltered, and they miss out on the isolating effect that's the main reason cats choose hideaways in the first place.

At the same time, a den can't be too small. A cat should be able to get in without squeezing, lie on their side, change position while sleeping, and get up comfortably. PRASKA's small cat dens are sized so a small cat feels the walls close by, while still having room to move.

Which small cat dens are available?

The range includes 2 product lines designed for smaller cats.

HIDE'IN CAVE is a rectangular den in upholstery fabric, open at the front. A stable structure holds its shape with no internal frame. HIDE'IN GOODY CAVE is the base model in the GOODY collection. HIDE'IN CAVE PLUS and HIDE'IN CAVE LOVE PLUS are roomier inside, with extra finishing. The rectangular shape lets a cat lie stretched out on their side, not just curled up. HIDE'IN CAVE PLUS also works as a kittening den for smaller breeds.

RATTLE CAT CAP is a round den with a built-in sensory toy at the entrance. The swinging toy (a rattle or a piece of fur) encourages play and makes it easier for a cat to accept a new den - they approach the toy, play at the entrance, and eventually make their way inside. RATTLE CAT CAP is available in several colour variants. RATTLE CAT CAP LOVE is the version in the LOVE NATURAL collection.

A small cat den and accepting a new space

A small cat who's never had a den before may need time to accept it. From my own observations in the cattery, some cats go into a new den within a few hours, others need a few days, and some take as long as two weeks. It's a natural process of acceptance, and it's not worth trying to rush.

The RATTLE CAT CAP den can make this easier - the toy at the entrance draws a cat's attention and encourages them to explore the den without needing to go straight inside. It's a gentler introduction than placing a cat in a den by force.

It's worth putting a small cat den somewhere quiet and calm - next to a bed, by the sofa, or in a corner of the room where your cat usually rests.

Hygiene and care

PRASKA's small cat dens have replaceable cushions with silicone fibre filling, washable at 30°C. Replacing the cushion instead of washing the whole den is quicker, and extends the life of the fabric. Waterproof mats are also available as an extra protective layer under the cushion.

Which small cat den should I choose?

For a cat up to 5-6 kg, the models in this category work well: HIDE'IN CAVE (rectangular, open at the front) or RATTLE CAT CAP (round, with a sensory toy at the entrance). For cats over 6 kg, we'd recommend the large cat dens instead.

What's the difference between HIDE'IN CAVE and RATTLE CAT CAP?

HIDE'IN CAVE is a rectangular den, open at the front - a cat walks in freely and lies stretched out on their side. RATTLE CAT CAP is a round den with a built-in toy at the entrance that encourages exploration. Both lines are designed for small cats up to around 5-6 kg.

Will a small cat den fit on a wall shelf?

The dens in this category are meant to be placed on the floor, a sofa, or a stand. For wall shelves, closed beds such as the COCO tunnel-burrows or raised-edge nests are designed for that.

Can the cushion from the den be washed?

Yes. The replaceable cushion with silicone fibre filling can be washed at 30°C. It doesn't pill after repeated washing. Waterproof mats are also available as a protective layer.

How do I help my cat accept a new den?

Put the den somewhere quiet and calm, in your cat's usual resting zone. Don't place your cat inside by force. Accepting something new takes anywhere from a few hours to two weeks - that's normal. The RATTLE CAT CAP model, with its toy at the entrance, can make that first approach easier.

Can I choose the colour of the den?

Yes. PRASKA dens are available in the following colour collections: GOODY, LOVE, FOREST, GARDEN, AQUA, ORCHARD. You choose the fabric and faux fur colour at order stage.

My cat weighs 7 kg - will the dens in this category fit them?

For cats over 5-6 kg, a better choice would be the models in the large cat dens category - BONBON or the ARENA dens. They have more room inside and a wider entrance opening.