3 Catio Ideas For A Purrfect Cat Patio Addition On A Home

It seems like there are so many things to do before moving into a new place. You’ll want to clean, unpack and get used to your new normal. While you’re making sure you have everything you need in your new space, remember that you’re also moving with your pet and to take the time to consider if your house is ready for your furry friends.

“Ready” could mean a great many things to you, but in general, you’ll want to ensure your pet has its own safe and enriching environment to play, sleep and live in. A great way to do this for your feline companion is with a catio.

What Is A Catio?

A catio, or cat patio, is a safe space for your cat and typically includes an outdoor section for fresh air. It offers a variety of benefits, including enrichment and exercise, while protecting your cat and local wildlife from harm.

The best part about a catio is that you can customize this space based on your pet’s needs, creating the perfect safe environment. Catios also come in all shapes and sizes, making it easy to find or make one that fits into whatever space you want to fill.

The Benefits Of Adding A Catio To Your Home

There are many reasons to think about putting up a catio; here are just a few:

• Provides enrichment: A happy cat starts with daily stimulation. Sometimes this is hard to keep up with, especially with jobs and other commitments. Enclosures like this are a great way for your cats to exercise their minds on their own.
• Keeps local wildlife safe: Cats are natural hunters and like to get into all sorts of trouble, a catio gives your feline a way to experience wildlife from a safe distance.
• Protects your cat: Just like hunting, cats are naturally curious creatures. Catios protect your cat from wandering too far, getting lost or hurt all while providing sunlight, fresh air and entertainment.

3 DIY Catio Ideas

Catios are becoming an increasingly popular addition to homes. As a result, many tutorials and DIY projects have popped up on the internet. This is great in helping you figure out what you want your catio to look like, how it’s going to function and any costs it’ll take to build or buy.

If you’re still unsure of what you want or how to start, here are just a few popular catio ideas that could be a good option for you.

1. Window Nook

Window nooks are the smallest of the options to consider, but a great way to incorporate all of the benefits of a catio. It’s essentially a shelf attached to the outside of your window and encased with grid fencing wire, creating a little nook your cat can sit or relax in. This is a simple way to make sure your cat is still getting sun, fresh air, and a good view outside without having to build a huge structure.

The trick is finding or making a box that fits within the frame of your window. If you’re trying to DIY, take the time to get your measurements right so you know how much material you need. Once installed, it’s important to make sure the platform is attached securely and that it has proper support. Like floating shelves, adding triangle brackets underneath will provide extra support to your structure, that way when your cat decides to snooze there or gets extra excited by a bird, you know the shelf won’t fall.

You’ll also want to consider which window you will attach this to. Depending on the types of windows you have, you’ll have to figure out how to best attach the nook so that your windows are still slightly functional. This can be tricky, but some type of removable cover or cat door would work to regulate how much air is getting in or how many bugs could slip through.

2. Extended Porch

If you’re willing to invest in a bigger project or already have an extended porch, try converting that space to a catio. This will be an outdoor room for your cats to roam, play, sleep and observe. With a larger space, you have the room to curate the area to your pet’s liking. Place their favorite bed, scratching post and other enrichment toys to create a fun environment to explore.

To make sure the space is safe for cats to roam, you’ll need to screen in the porch. This will take a bit more effort to construct than a window nook, but it can be a simple process if you take the time to research and prep. Measure the structure you have so you know how much screen to get. Next, you’ll want to make sure you’re getting the right screen. There are two main types of screen material: fiberglass and aluminum. Aluminum is going to cost more but is more durable than fiberglass. This is a good option for a catio, as it’s less likely to break and stands a better chance against claws.

3. Pre-Built Catios

Not a fan of DIY projects? Or maybe you’re nervous about getting those pesky measurements right? Not to worry, you can find many different catio kits or pre-built catios online.

Keep in mind that pre-built catio kits are going to cost you more, with prices typically ranging from $350 - $600. Depending on your budget and preferences, you’ll have to decide if the higher cost is worth not having to build it yourself.

Catio Decorating Ideas

Now that you have your structure, big or small, it’s time to figure out what to put in it. Start with the obvious options: things that your cat enjoys already. If you’re unsure what else to put in, or have extra space, here are some other decorating ideas to consider for your catio that are also great from providing enrichment.

• Scratching posts: Scratching posts give your pet a designated place to scratch, so they’re not taking it out on your couch. These can be as simple as a cardboard box, or some type of rope wrapped on a pole.
• Tunnels: Tunnels have many different purposes for cats, making it a good investment. Cats will use tunnels for play, stimulating their instincts for stalking and hunting. They are also great in encouraging play with other cats and can also be a nice spot to take a nap.
• Hammocks: Make sure you create a nice place for your cat to take a break from their enrichment and get some rest. Cats enjoy lounging in high places to get the best vantage point, so install these platforms and hammocks up high.

How To Build A Catio

Trying to build anything is going to take some preparation, research and time. Start with brainstorming all of the features you want to include to better help you plan out where to place things. Here are some common areas and components of a catio to consider.

Door Entrance

You’ll want to make sure that no matter what kind of catio you’ve built or purchased, your cat can come and go freely. Installing a cat door is a great way to regulate any air or bugs coming inside and out, while still letting your cat enter or leave the space as they please.

Lounging Areas

Enrichment is very important for a cat to have a healthy as well as a fun environment to play in, but it’s just as important to create a space where your cat can relax and be lazy. Place a lounging area in your catio and try to separate it as much as you can from the stimulating toys. Cats will appreciate a bit of solitude and relaxation to balance out their playing.

Perches And Shelves

Like a hammock, cats will love a high vantage point to survey the area. Attaching perches or shelves is a great way to accommodate for that, while getting your cat the exercise and movement it needs throughout the day by climbing.

How Much Does It Cost To Build A Catio?

Cost varies depending on your design, size and amenities. A window nook is going to be relatively cheap, while an outdoor tunnel system could cost you hundreds in supplies and hours of your time.

Blueprints start around $50, but handy pet parents can design their own structure. If you’re starting from scratch, you’ll need lumber, hardware and fencing. Depending on the size and intricacy of your design, this can cost anywhere from $100 – $1,000.

You can also purchase pre-built designs that ship with instructions and supplies. These run $1,500 or more depending on the design. Custom builds are also available for additional costs, ranging anywhere from $3,000 – $10,000 or more depending on your preference.

The Bottom Line: Catios Are A Paw-sitively Safe Way To Expand Your Cat’s World Indoors And Out

If you’re looking for a way to give your cat its own space to play, grow and thrive, look into installing a catio. With so many benefits, it’s a great investment to consider that can be an easy way to improve the quality of their lives and your home.

Figure out your plan and budget, and apply for a personal loan with Rocket Loans^SM to finance this home upgrade.