Outdoor Catios & Cat Enclosures

Climbing Opportunities

Providing various climbing structures is essential for any catio, especially if you plan on using your catio year-round.

Think sturdy cat trees, multiple timber shelves mounted at different heights, and ramps, encouraging your cat to stretch, climb, and perch.

Sensory Delights

To further enrich your cat’s experience, introduce cat-safe plants like catnip or cat grass, providing them with enticing smells and textures to explore.

You could also consider using a wood framework and leaving it natural for your cat to enjoy.

Interactive Toys

Cats love to play, and incorporating various toys in a catio is essential for mental and physical stimulation.

Provide a selection of toys, such as balls, wand toys, scratching post, and puzzle feeders. You can even add a bird feeder outside the enclosure.

Provide a selection of quality backyard toys, such as balls, wand toys, a scratching post, and puzzle feeders.

However, ensure it’s at a safe distance, preventing any frustration from not being able to access it.

Private Retreats

While cats are social, even the most extroverted felines enjoy private time. Consider this by including cosy hiding spots where your cat can retreat when they want peace and quiet.

This is especially important in large cat enclosures, where cats may need a break from the excitement.

Provide shelter and sturdy walls for protection from the elements, including wind, rain and harsh sun.

The Benefits of a Catio

A catio offers a range of benefits for both cats and their owners. Primarily, they provide a safe and controlled environment where cats can indulge their natural instincts to explore, climb, and observe their surroundings.

This allows your cat to experience the outdoors without the threat of getting lost, injured, or encountering other animals.

Strengthening the Bond

Enjoying a catio with your cat, like a morning coffee or afternoon tea, provides a wonderful shared experience. It also offers a chance to observe your cat’s behaviour and interact with them in a new, exciting environment. This shared enjoyment can strengthen your bond.

Protecting Wildlife and Your Cat

Catios help to protect local wildlife. Cats are natural hunters, and if allowed to roam free, can significantly impact bird populations and other small creatures.

A catio ensures that your cat can enjoy the thrill of observing wildlife without harming it. A catio acts as a safe haven for your cat.

They are protected from larger predators, traffic, and potential hazards like poisonous plants or busy roads.It also minimises their risk of parasites such as ticks and fleas.

Physical and Mental Stimulation

Cats are intelligent and curious creatures that thrive on mental and physical stimulation.

A well-designed catio, much like a dog kennel or chicken coop, offers plenty of opportunities for exercise and entertainment.

Imagine climbing trees, lounging on timeber shelves, chasing toys, or simply basking in the sun – a catio can be a feline playground that caters to all these desires.

This helps combat boredom, which can lead to destructive behaviours in some cats.

Are cats happy in catios?

Absolutely. Catios are designed to cater to a cat’s natural instincts – they get to enjoy fresh air, mental stimulation and a sense of freedom in a safe environment.

This keeps them engaged and less likely to get bored and destructive, which contributes significantly to their overall well-being.

A well-designed catio will provide opportunities for your cat to safely enjoy the outdoors.

What are the downsides of a catio?

One of the most frequently cited downsides is the initial investment required.

DIY catios are significantly more expensive if you are buying new materials. Pre-made catio kits will save you money and require less skill to assemble.

Catios, particularly free-standing ones, take up space, which might be limited for people with smaller backyards or gardens.

Do you need planning permission to build a catio?

This can vary depending on your location and the complexity of your catio design. Some smaller, attached structures might not require permission.

It’s always advisable to check with your local council or relevant authorities. Doing so beforehand saves you the hassle of unexpected regulations or potential demolition orders.

Can you leave a cat in a catio?

Yes, a catio cat house can serve as an outdoor home for your feline friend.

Just ensure it meets their basic needs onsider their basic needs – fresh water, food, a litter tray, adequate shelter and company.