It’s springtime. The weather is warming up and your cat is feeling more than a little frisky to get outside. You know your feline friend is longing for some fresh air and sunshine but you worry about their safety, as well as the safety of local wildlife.
Enter the catio. A catio is a patio for cats, and is typically built just outside a door or a preferred window that your cat likes to frequent. You can even get creative with your catio and build it according to your home and particular taste (and your kitty’s, of course!).
Wonder why you should consider building a catio for your cat? Learn the benefits below.
The top benefits for building a catio
- Provides enrichment for your cat. Cats are designed to leap, balance on thin ledges and climb anything and everything. A catio provides them the opportunity to tap into their inner ancestral forest hunter, while also giving them access to the ever-changing sights, sounds and smells of the outdoors. Translation: they’ll never be bored!
- Protects your cat from vehicles, diseases, conflicts with other cats, predators, potential poisoning, getting lost and any other dangers that affect free-roaming cats.
- Ensures local wildlife can safely enjoy their habitat. Outdoor cats can cause harm to birds and other wild animals. By keeping them in their catio, you’re giving your cat the outdoor experience they crave while also protecting wildlife.
- Decreases conflict between cats. If you have two or more cats, there can sometimes be unwanted conflict and stress. Catios provide additional space for your cats to get some distance from each other.
- Avoids neighbourhood conflicts. Not everyone loves your cat as much as you do. Catios can help avoid conflicts created when your cat chooses to use your neighbour’s vegetable garden as their outdoor litter box.
Now that you know about the benefits of building a catio for your furry friend, you still might have a few questions. Below are some of the most common FAQs.
How do I transition an outdoor cat into a cat who lives indoors with access to a catio?
It’s important that a cat has the opportunity to express their innate behaviours when they are kept indoors. A catio is the perfect way to help transition an outdoor cat into the home as it provides the stimulation of an outdoor environment while protecting them from the dangers they would otherwise encounter outside.
How do I know if my cat would like a catio?
Catios are great for cats who are curious or playful. They can help cats to expend that extra energy by exploring their new space. Or perhaps they love basking in the sunshine on a windowsill, and a catio will give them additional space to do just that.
If your cat is shy or timid, they can still enjoy a catio. You might want to consider including some hiding spots to help them feel safe, and anything else that they enjoy.
I have a senior cat. Would they enjoy a catio? What about my new kitten?
Cats of any age can reap the benefits of a catio. Just add items to fit the personality or life stage of your individual cat. For example, if you have a senior cat who has trouble with jumping, add ladders or ramps to help them explore their new space and perches that allow them to snooze in between taking in the sights.
If you have a kitten, ensure there aren’t any spaces or holes they can squeeze into and potentially harm themselves or even escape from the catio.
My cat is a bit skittish. Would they benefit from a catio?
Absolutely! Skittish cats may appreciate some tunnels for privacy. Cautious cats would love hanging out on a high perch to take it all in. Cats on the curvier side may benefit from some “sneaky exercise” from bridges or walkways. Catios cater to all types of cats!
How long will it take for my cat to get used to a catio?
Every cat is unique, but cats typically take to catios in about one to two weeks. Providing toys and other enrichment, a comfortable place to relax and fresh water all help to pique your cat’s curiosity. If you have the space, place a human-sized chair or two inside your catio to enjoy your cat’s company!
When it comes to introducing your cat to their new space, it’s best to take your time and create one that is best for their temperament. Soon, you’ll have a happily adjusted indoor cat who has the benefits of the great outdoors thanks to their very own catio.
Additional resources
Learn how to build a catio
How to create an outdoor cat tunnel
Decor ideas for your catio