INNOVATION DESIGN OF A MODULAR CAT HOUSE USING ECO-FRIENDLY MATERIALS

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Humans have been domesticating animals since 9,000 BCE, and pet ownership has become increasingly popular, especially following the COVID-19 pandemic, which significantly impacted lifestyles and family structures. The trend of “Pet Humanization” has led to increased spending on pet-related products. Cats are among the most popular pets; however, many commercial cat products do not align with feline behavior or body size, and they also contribute to excessive plastic waste. This research focuses on studying feline behavior to design a modular cat house that accommodates cat’s natural instincts while utilizing environmentally friendly materials. Therefore, this study aims to: (1) Study the behavior of cats and their owners. (2) Explore the use of eco-friendly materials in cat house design. (3) Design a modular cat house using sustainable materials. (4) Evaluate cat owners’ satisfaction with the proposed modular cat house design.

Methods: This study employs a mixed-methods research approach, divided into two main sections: Quantitative Research: (1) Surveying cat owners through an online questionnaire (n = 100). (2) Surveying marketing experts through an online questionnaire (n = 20). Qualitative Research: (1) Conducting in-depth interviews with five design experts. (2) Analysis of feline behavior, including popular cat breeds in Thailand. (3) Reviewing design theories and consumer behavior to inform the initial design process. 

Key Findings: The study revealed that cats exhibit diverse behaviors, prompting the adoption of a modular system for the cat house design. Following the development three initial prototypes and their refinement into a final model, a satisfaction survey was conducted among 100 cat owners. The evaluation results demonstrated high satisfaction rates across all criteria: design (87.00%), aesthetic appeal (87.42%), durability (89.10%), ease of transport (84.80%), environmental friendliness (89.20%). The overall satisfaction rate was 87.55%, which corresponds to a “Good” level.

Implications of the Study: This research is significant in developing a cat house design that aligns with feline behavior and owner preferences. The modular system allows for easy customization and adaptability, thereby reducing waste from repeated purchases. Additionally, the use of eco-friendly materials helps minimize plastic waste and environmental impact. Consequently, this study not only enhances the convenience of cat ownership but also contributes to pollution reduction and sustainable resource utilization.

Conclusion and Future Study: The findings indicate that the modular cat house effectively accommodates various feline behaviors, including sleeping, playing, scratching, and hiding. The design is highly adjustable to fit different living spaces. Wood, selected as the primary material, is eco-friendly, reusable, and biodegradable. Additionally, using corrugated cardboard for scratching surfaces reduces waste and improves cost efficiency. For future research, further structural improvements should be explored to enhance durability and ease of assembly. Integrating smart technology, such as motion sensors to track cat behavior, and investigating alternative sustainable materials could further minimize environmental impact and enhance the sustainability of pet product design.