A catio is a designated outdoor space for cats, designed to keep them safe while allowing them to experience the outdoors – a freedom that every cat should have. A catio is typically an enclosed structure attached to your home or built separately in your yard.
Here’s a guide on how to build your own catio:
Why build a catio?
Cats, by nature, are curious adventurers and may wander off, get into fights with other animals, or encounter traffic if left unsupervised outdoors. However, keeping a cat indoors all the time is not the solution, either. They, just like us, deserve a bit of freedom outdoors. Outdoor exposure provides mental and physical stimulation for cats, which is important for their overall well-being.
This is where a catio comes in. This enclosure provides a secure environment where a kitty can explore the ‘outside world’ safely. A catio offers them the chance to satisfy these instincts by watching birds, chasing insects, or climbing structures within a safe space.
@chirpycats_ The Chirpies take Vegetable Patch Patrol quite seriously! Throwback to last summer as kitties help with cucumber harvest 🥒 🌞🐈🐈🐈🐈 #catio #catiosoftiktok #catiolife #catsatwork #catgarden #catenclosure #catpeople #catsafeplants ♬ original sound – Chirpycats
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to build a catio at home:
Step 1, planning
First, you’ll need to decide on and measure the available space for your catio.
Determine the area where you plan to build the catio, taking into consideration both the size of your yard and any constraints imposed by your home’s layout.
Then, you’ll need to decide on the type of catio you are going to build. Choose whether you want a freestanding catio, or if it will be attached to your home. When making this decision, it’s important to keep factors such as accessibility in mind. Your cat should be able to access the enclosure with ease.
Your last step of planning will be creating a design plan. Sketch out your catio design – you can get really creative with this, such as including tunnels for kitty to roam through that connect to the larger enclosure, as per the video above. In your plan, include dimensions, layout, and any additional features you may want to include, such as shelves or ramps for kitty to climb, as well as a roof.
Step 2, sourcing materials
You can’t build a catio without a decent frame that will hold.
Purchase sturdy materials for the frame, such as pressure-treated lumber or PVC piping. You will also need pet-safe mesh or screening material to enclose the catio. Make sure it’s strong enough to withstand scratching and won’t tear easily. If you’re adding a roof to your catio for shade and weather protection, select appropriate materials such as polycarbonate panels, outdoor fabric, or corrugated metal.
Step 3, start building
Time to put your hands to work. First, you’ll need to build your frame, keeping in mind the measurements and dimensions you have set out for it. Cut the lumber or PVC piping to the appropriate lengths according to your design plan and then assemble the frame using screws, nails, or connectors, ensuring it’s sturdy and level.
Once the frame has been built, you will need to install mesh or screening next. Using your chosen material, stretch the mesh or screening material over the frame, securing it in place with screws or zip ties. Trim any excess material, and reinforce seams or edges to prevent tears or escape routes. Lastly, add your roofing.
Step 4, interior design
A kitty enclosure without shelves, perches and ramps for your kitty to climb defeats the purpose of building a catio – they love to climb!
Install shelves, perches, ramps, or platforms to provide climbing and exploration opportunities. You can also include toys, scratching posts, and interactive feeders to keep your cat entertained.
It’s also vital to have a cosy spot for your cat to chill in. Add soft bedding, cushions, or a cat hammock for lounging and napping. If you’d like to dress up the space, include cat-safe plants such as catnip, cat grass, or spider plants to provide your cats with a bit of sensory stimulation and a connection to nature.
Most importantly, ensure your cat has access to fresh water at all times, either by installing a water bowl or fountain within the catio or providing easy access to an indoor water source.
Step 5, safety checks
If you didn’t take these steps before building, now’s the time to remove any toxic plants or materials from the catio that could harm your cat. Ensure there are no sharp edges, loose wires, or other potential dangers. Ensure the catio is securely anchored to the ground or attached to your home to prevent tipping or collapse.
Step 6, introducing kitty to the pozzie
Once the catio has been built and checked for safety, it’s time to introduce kitty to the catio. Allow your cat to explore the catio at their own pace, starting with short supervised visits. Encourage positive associations by offering treats and praise for using the catio.
Once introductions are out of the way, it’s important to still keep an eye on your cat while they’re in the catio, especially in the beginning, to prevent escape attempts. Encourage your cat to use the catio regularly by incorporating it into their daily routine and offering rewards for positive behaviour.
Lastly, remember to regularly inspect the catio for signs of wear or damage, and make repairs as needed to maintain its integrity.
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Feature Image: Unsplash
