Why does a small cat cave'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 cave's walls are close enough for the cat to feel their presence. A small cat in an oversized cave 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 cave 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 caves are sized so a small cat feels the walls close by, while still having room to move.

Which small cat caves are available?

The range includes 2 product lines designed for smaller cats.

HIDE'IN CAVE is a rectangular cave 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 queening box for smaller breeds.

RATTLE CAT CAP is a round cave 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 cave - they approach the toy, play at the entrance, and eventually make their way inside. RATTLE CAT CAP is available in several color variants. RATTLE CAT CAP LOVE is the version in the LOVE NATURAL collection.

A small cat cave and accepting a new space

A small cat who's never had a cave before may need time to accept it. From my own observations in the cattery, some cats go into a new cave 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 cave can make this easier - the toy at the entrance draws a cat's attention and encourages them to explore the cave without needing to go straight inside. It's a gentler introduction than placing a cat in a cave by force.

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

Hygiene and care

PRASKA's small cat caves have replaceable cushions with silicone fiberfill, washable at 86°F (30°C). Replacing the cushion instead of washing the whole cave 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 cave should I choose?

For a cat up to 12-13 lbs (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 13 lbs (6 kg), we'd recommend the large cat caves instead.

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

HIDE'IN CAVE is a rectangular cave, open at the front - a cat walks in freely and lies stretched out on their side. RATTLE CAT CAP is a round cave with a built-in toy at the entrance that encourages exploration. Both lines are designed for small cats up to around 12-13 lbs (5-6 kg).

Will a small cat cave fit on a wall shelf?

The caves in this category are meant to be placed on the floor, a couch, 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 cave be washed?

Yes. The replaceable cushion with silicone fiberfill can be washed at 86°F (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 cave?

Put the cave 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 color of the cave?

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

My cat weighs 15 lbs - will the caves in this category fit them?

For cats over 13 lbs (6 kg), a better choice would be the models in the large cat caves category - BONBON or the ARENA caves. They have more room inside and a wider entrance opening.