Happy Cat, Happy Life: The Benefits of Getting a Catio

Most cats love to be outside. They want to explore new spaces, find new things to sniff, run around and play. If you have a cat in your house, it’s time to expand their space and build a nice catio. This can be a safe space where the cat can relax, walk around and even have fun. It’s very beneficial for their physical and mental health.

What to Consider When Buying

Size

The size is a factor that depends on two things: the available space you have and the number of cats you own. If you have a larger open space, you can opt for a bigger size. Even if you have one cat, it’s always better for it to have more space to move around. But if you’re limited in terms of space, make the best of it and use it as much as it allows.

However, if you own two or more cats, you should shop for spacious and comfortable catios. Cats love their freedom and enjoy roaming around. If you’re limited by floor space, you can always work your way up and build the structure vertically.

Location

Just as its name suggests, this structure was meant to be placed on your patio. But this is not a must. You can get creative and expand the space however you want, or wherever you think is best. You can attach it to a window. This way, you’ll get an extension of your windowsill.

Some people even install it on the balcony. It’s always a good idea to place it on the side of your house that gets the most sunlight and has a nice view so the cat can enjoy every second of it. 

Materials

In general, catios are made from a combination of a few materials. The most common are galvanised wire, rot-resistant wood and polycarbonate mesh. The inside of the structure also includes wooden stairs and shelves, perches and stumps covered in carpet and different types of flooring such as decking, grass or pavers.

The wood is what shapes the structure. You can paint it any colour you want. Some cat owners like to match it with the colour of their house, while others want to make it stand out. This mainly depends on your personal preferences. 

Access point

There are a few ways to create access points for a cat enclosure. This depends on the layout of your home and the location you choose. Windows are a popular choice, especially sliding or sash windows, which can be made more practical with simple adjustments. Patio doors, garden doors, or even exterior walls can also work. Another common option is a cat flap. If your cat is comfortable using one, it’s an easy solution.

Design

A catio is more than just a place for the cat to chill. It’s also an extension of your home, and it should look nice. The newer and more modern designs are made to complement your house. They’re also simple to change, repaint or stain. Some owners like to match the structure with the rest of the house and create a cohesive look. 

On the other hand, you can do the complete opposite and make the cat enclosure stand out. Going for a structure made of wood gives you plenty of creative freedom. This way, you can repaint and change the aesthetics as many times as you want.

Decorations

Decorating the cat’s space is the most exciting part of the whole experience. There are so many things to do. You can choose bedding and cubbies, pick from a wide variety of scratching posts and pet-safe plants, and you can even add a kitty hammock or a cat tree. A lot of experts advise pet owners to incorporate human elements into the catio. This includes carpets, pillows, lighting and even water features. You have so many shapes, sizes, colours and designs to choose from. 

Benefits of a Catio

Protection

Allowing your cat to roam around and explore the outdoors is a great idea until something bad happens. Yes, the outdoors keeps them happy and active, but it can also be dangerous. Things like traffic accidents and run-ins with dogs can be a big problem. The cat can also come in contact with wild animals or get stuck up a tree. Unfortunately, many things can go wrong.

Cats can also be exposed to toxic substances like antifreeze or pest control chemicals, not to mention parasites. Some even end up locked in sheds or garages by accident. A cat enclosure gives your cat a safe space to enjoy the fresh air and sunshine without any of these dangers.

Lower Vet Bills

Cats that spend time outside are more likely to get physically injured. They can also get diseases from other animals. There are diseases such as feline immunodeficiency virus, feline leukaemia, and even rabies that can easily be passed on through close contact or a bite. This results in stressful vet visits and high bills.

Protects Wildlife

They might look sweet, but cats are natural hunters. They can do a lot of damage to local wildlife. Research suggests that cats kill billions of birds each year, and it’s a problem here in Australia, too. Their hunting instincts, while natural, can seriously impact native birds and small animal populations.

A cat enclosure offers a smart solution. It lets your cat enjoy the outdoors without putting local wildlife at risk. It’s a simple way to be a more responsible pet owner while also helping to protect the environment.

Reduce Indoor Odours

If you have more than one cat, placing a litter box in the enclosure can be a great idea. It gives your cats another option to relieve themselves and can help cut down on indoor smells. Just keep in mind that an outdoor litter box shouldn’t replace the ones inside your home; it’s more of an extra convenience. Make sure you have one litter box per cat, plus one more for good measure.