Crate Training for Kittens Vet Approved Sleep Solutions for 2025 🐾

By Dr. Duncan Houston BVSc

Thinking about crate training your kitten overnight? You're not alone. While crate training is common for puppies, many new kitten parents wonder: can kittens sleep in a crate? Is it safe? Is it cruel?

Let’s clear it up with this vet-approved guide to using crates or enclosures for kittens, including how to set up a crate that’s cozy, calming, and completely safe. 🐾

✅ Yes — Kittens Can Sleep in a Crate (When Done Right)

Crates are safe, helpful training tools for young kittens when used thoughtfully:

• Helps with nighttime boundaries 
• Prevents accidents or furniture climbing 
• Encourages sleeping in their own space

They’re especially useful for: 

• Newly adopted kittens (still settling in) 
• Multi-pet homes (to keep older pets separate) 
• Travel prep and vet visit conditioning

📦 How to Set Up a Crate for a Kitten to Sleep In

1. Choose the Right Size 

• Big enough to hold: a bed, litter tray, small toy, and food/water (if needed) 
• Too big = less security. Too small = cramped = stress

2. Add a Cozy Bed or Pad 

• Vet-approved options: Donut Bed, Little House Felt Bed, or Flat 3-in-1 Cube 
  
• Line with fleece or sherpa blanket for extra softness

3. Add Familiar Scent

• Use a worn shirt, plush toy, or previous blanket
  
• Consider a calming pheromone spray or diffuser nearby

4. Include a Low-Lip Litter Box 

• If they’re under 10–12 weeks or crate-trained overnight 
• Keep at the far end of the crate, away from bedding

5. Cover the Crate (Partially) 

• Drape a breathable towel or light blanket over one or two sides 
• This helps reduce noise and light exposure overnight

🚫 What to Avoid When Using a Crate 

• Leaving them without warmth (use heat disc for <8-week-olds)
  
• Using crates for punishment or timeouts 
• Overcrowding the crate with toys or large litter boxes
• Crating all day — this should be for nighttime or brief downtime only

💬 Vet Insight: Dr. Duncan Houston

“Crates can be incredibly helpful when kittens are young — especially for nighttime security and routine. Just make sure they’re warm, soft, and not isolated. Think of it as a little nursery space — not a cage.”

🛒 Purrz Picks for Kitten Crate Comfort 

• 🧺 Donut Bed – soft and small enough for crates 
• 🏠 Little House Felt Bed – snug and structured 
• 🧳 3-in-1 Cube (flat mode) – great for travel crates or nighttime setups

🐾 Explore all kitten sleep solutions at Purrz