If you want your cat to enjoy some fresh air, consider installing a cat patio. Cat patios—or “catios”—are safe enclosures meant to allow housecats a bit of outdoor time.
Follow these tips for building a catio for your cat to enrich your furry friend’s mental and physical health.
Where To Build Your Catio
The type of catio you build will determine its placement. If you live in a small house or apartment, you may choose a balcony or window box catio.
Window boxes are compact and can be removed when needed. You can also use your balcony if you screen it in with fencing and zip ties. Classic catios are kept on the porch or deck.
You can customize a cubed wall catio however you want and design it to fit any space. A freestanding catio may be considered a cat condo, especially if it is big enough to encompass multiple levels.
How To Build Your Catio
Make sure you use durable materials when constructing your catio. You don’t want your feline to break out of a fence or fall through a window box.
Cedar, plywood, and pallet wood are sturdy materials you can use to create your structures, and chicken wire is strong enough to prevent cats from escaping. Use quality fencing staples and pet-friendly paint to keep your feline friend safe.
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How To Decorate Your Catio
DIY cat patio design is about more than just the exterior. You’ll want your feline to feel just as at home in her new outdoor space as she does indoors. Depending on the available space in your structure, consider adding plants, ramps, and shelves for your pet to enjoy.
Make sure the plants your cat has access to are pet friendly. If you have an older feline, consider adjusting ramps and platforms to fit your senior pet’s needs.
- Pro Tip: Make sure your cat has access to water and shade in their catio! Your cat might not be used to the warm temperatures outside.
Ways Your Cat Will Access Your Catio
Don’t forget to plan how your cat will access their brand new space. You may want them to have 24/7 access to the patio, which means your cat will need a pet door in the window or door. If you don’t want them to access the patio regularly, keep locks secure.
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Generally, people advise that you supervise your cats while they use their catios. You never know when your clever feline might find a way through the wire in an effort to escape.
Keep these tips for building a catio for your cat nearby next time your furry friend begs to go outside.
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Image credit: building a catio for your cat by twenty20.com
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