BC SPCA Catio Tour 2018/19
The BC SPCA is hosting its inaugural catio tour in Spring 2019 in the city of Vancouver. Check back in winter 2018 for information to register for the tour!
Do you want to win a free catio?
We are currently seeking homeowners who want to win a catio for their property. Interested homeowners in the neighbourhoods of Kitsilano and Mount Pleasant in Vancouver will be considered to receive the free catio. The deadline for applications is September 30, 2018.
If you are a homeowner that already has a catio at your home, get in touch by emailing catio@spca.bc.ca.
Volunteer
We are currently recruiting outreach volunteers to help spread the word. Find out more and apply.
Frequently asked questions
What is a catio?
A catio is a screened-in space, a patio for cats if you will! The structure can be attached to the home or free-standing and often includes perches, ramps and other enrichment for cats.
What are some benefits of a catio?
Besides keeping your cat safe from outdoor hazards such as predators, disease, poisons, and cars, catios provide safe and supervised outdoors time. With perches and ramps, cats can snooze in the sun and exercise in the outdoors! By keeping your cat enclosed in a safe space, catios help to protect birds and other wildlife. For those with multi-cat households, the added space provided by a catio may help to reduce territorial issues by providing extra stimulation and room to roam. Finally, catios provide cat guardians with peace of mind knowing that their cat is exploring the outdoors in a safe and protected environment.
How does a cat enter a catio?
There are lots of ways to attach a catio to a home, including door inserts in a window, a single or double flap pet door from the wall, or a tunnel from your home. All types of entries provide 24/7 safe access to the catio.
My cat is a bit skittish. Would they benefit from a catio?
Absolutely! We can help you design the perfect catio for your cat. Skittish cats may appreciate some tunnels for privacy. Curious 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 1-2 weeks. Providing toys, 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!
I live in an apartment building and I have a patio/balcony. Can I apply?
We think it’s great that you’re considering turning your outdoor space into a catio, but only those with spaces with easy outdoor access for our Catio Tour may apply. This is likely a ground-level apartment with an unobstructed pathway. In addition, you will need to provide documentation to support your strata’s authorization to proceed with building a catio.
I’m planning to adopt a cat in the future, but I don’t have one now. Can I still enter the contest?
We’re so happy that you’re adding a cat to your family! As we will be working with guardians to design the perfect catio for their cat, this contest is only open to homeowners who currently have guardianship of a cat.
What happens if I win?
Congratulations! If you’re one of the lucky homeowners, we will be in touch in early October to arrange to meet you and to see your home in Kitsilano or Mount Pleasant. You will need to be available during the winter to support and liaise with the builders installing your catio. You will also need to be available in June 2019 to participate in our inaugural Catio Tour. Your job is simple – greet and answer questions from visitors about your catio!