Tips for choosing your kitty’s catio (with examples!)

Many cat parents love the idea of their kitty to be able to feel the wind on their furry faces, and to lounge in the sun without veering off next door. Well, we think you probably need a catio (yes, a catio it's a cat patio!) or an outdoor cat enclosure. A catio allows your kitty to safely venture into the outdoors without going too far astray. They're a great way to keep your favorite furry friend safe while you're out of the house, when you welcome a pet sitter, or if you have indoor kitties who try to be free roaming cats. And as with most feline accessories, there is a whole lot to choose from. So, whether it's National Catio Day (yes, that exists and it's on 15th March!) or not, explore different varieties below to find something to suit your feline family members.

Related article: 10 ways to cat proof a fence

Choosing a catio: things to consider

Would you prefurr a temporary or permanent catio? 

Want to dip a paw in first before taking the plunge? If you're new to the wonderful world of catios and outdoor cat enclosures, you're probably feeling a little unsure as to whether your feline friend will actually make use of the new structure - our kitties can be picky creatures, afterall (and rightly so!). So, to avoid wasting your wonga, why not start off with a temporary catio? Often made of nylon and secured with zippers, they're lightweight and portable - so great if you'd like to give your feline friend the freedom they need in different spots around your garden (or the globe!).

Once you're sure your kitty pal is all about the catio life, you might decide to opt for a permanent structure in your backyard so that the fun can continue - long term. Permanent catios come in all manner of shapes and sizes, some are attached to another permanent structure while others are free-standing, plus many are wooden while others are made of metal wire. Something you'll love about investing in a permanent catio is the freedom you have to customize it to both your and your kitty's needs, personality and preferences.

Space - How much room do you have for a building a catio?

Depending on where you decide your kitty's new outdoor hangout is going to sit, you'll need to pick the right size (and shape). You might choose to attach the structure onto the outer wall of your home, on top of your patio (so that it lives up to its cat patio/catio name), or you might have more space if it sits as an external structure on your lawn.

Location - Where's the best spot to build a catio?

As the name suggests, a catio can be placed on your patio, but you can get a whole lot more creative than that if it's not the most practical spot for your set-up. Rather, consider attaching your catio to a window as a free-standing extension of your windowsill, or consider placing an external structure on your deck or porch or even your balcony. Along with thinking about where it will practically fit best, also consider which areas of your outdoor space get the most sun, and where has the best views for your kitty to look out on.

Access - How will your kitty get into the catio?

Outdoor cat enclosures can be accessed through various areas of your house, and the option you choose will be determined by your home's set-up and where you plan to locate the catio. A few options for entrance include windows (slider and sash windows work best here, so that your window door isn't opening out into the catio), along with patio slider doors, garden doors and exterior walls. And remember that a cat flap could come in handy here (if your kitty is willing to use one!).

Price - What can you as cat parents afford?

Catios range in price massively, so pick your range before going ahead. Be sure that your kitty will make the most of it, and make sure you choose the right shape, size and position before investing. If you'd like to test the waters, start with a temporary catio, or simply a small structure that doesn't completely swamp your outdoor space.

Aesthetic - What style of catio suits your feline friend?

While many of the more traditional outdoor cat enclosures are made of metal wire, you could opt for a more modern feel with a catio made of wood. Starting with a paintable material means you can personalize your space and come up with a catio design to suit your outdoor aesthetic and home style down to a tee.

Personality - Does your catio plan have a touch of your cat about it? 

A safe outdoor space for your feline is one thing, but remember you can personalize the interiors to suit your kitty's hobbies and personality! If you're wondering what to put in a catio, consider adding a climbing frame, walkways, a scratching post and maybe even a feline-friendly obstacle course! Kit the space out with your pal's favorite toys and they're sure to warm to their new catio. And if your space is big enough, maybe add a bean bag and rug that you (and your cat!) can snuggle up on.

Temporary outdoor cat enclosures

If you're after a portable outdoor cat enclosure that'll help keep your cat safe while enjoying the outdoors, a temporary catio (or tent for felines) is a lightweight, budget-friendly option to consider.

• Kitty Claw Enclosure - something for your playful, adventurous feline - this catio is perfect for both indoor and outdoor fun, complete with spots to hide and of course, snooze.
• Wrneaoch cat tunnels - an enclosure that's easy to build and perfect if you'd like space for a scratching post or another stand-up entertainment piece.
• Chewy tunnel and tent - ideal for getting your feline used to the outside world in somewhere that still feels safely enclosed and sheltered.

Attachable catios

Many outdoor cat enclosures can be attached to a stationary structure (like your home) so that it's easy to access. Catio spaces can be made accessible through various means (think windows, cat flaps and doors), so the model you choose really depends on your home's set up.

• Cosiwow catio and playpen - complete with mini napping houses and platforms, this attachable catio is perfect for helping your feline enjoy the outdoors. Simply take off the wire mesh to connect the cage to your window, following the instructions on the package.
• Eiiel wire mesh catio - a catio with a sturdy frame, multiple platforms and space for toys, a litter tray and beds, simply attach to your house by removing two panels.

Lawn catios

Outdoor cat enclosures can also easily be placed on your lawn, if that's where you've got more space. Before investing though, make sure the ground is nice and even so that your catio sits safely, and has no chance of wobbling over when your kitty bounds between platforms.

• Magic Union cat enclosure - with five platforms and a spacious runway to play with, you can have more than one kitty leaping (and snoozing) in this multi-material cat enclosure.
• Meow Safe cat house - if you're after a simpler design, this house-shaped catio is ideal for keeping your feline safe (and dry) outside, with lots of room for toys, scratching posts and spots to get cozy in.

Wooden catios

If you're on the lookout for a DIY catio, you're looking to build a catio or you simply want something that's a little more easily personalized, you might want to opt for an (at least partly) wooden catio. Easily stained and painted, you can really make it your own, converting your windowsill snoozer into an outdoor cat in no time.

• Home and Roose outdoor cat enclosure - something we love about this piece is the entrance - your kitty can head up towards this elevated wooden catio or in through the cat door to take cover from the outdoors - perfect for an afternoon snooze.
• Haverchair catio - perfect for painting and ideal for kitties who want the sun on their face or shelter from the rain, it's complete with a fully wooden section, and a wire mesh section ideal for safe, outdoor fun.

Wire mesh catios

Traditionally catios were made of wire mesh, so let's explore a couple of durable enclosures that'll stand the test of time against the weather and your kitty's claws.

• Catland outdoor cat enclosure - complete with platforms, walkways and napping boxes, your kitty will get the natural light and outdoor breeze with protection from the rain and direct sunlight with this catio's removable roof protector.
• PawHut catio - for a more simplistic design for kitties who love nothing more than lounging in the sun, this catio from PawHut will let the sun in and keep your kitty safe outside.

Window box catios

Window catios take up less space than your average outdoor cat enclosure and are a great extension to your kitty's favorite sun spot (i.e. the windowsill).

• Habitat Haven window outdoor cat enclosure - designed to safely attach outside your window, your cat can climb through the access hatch onto a stable platform to enjoy the outdoors without going downstairs!
• DIY window catio instructions - if you're looking to build your own catio, check out these handy instructions that'll allow you to fully customize your kitty's outdoor sun spot.
• Cat Solarium veranda - yes, there is such a thing as a cat veranda and we're totally here for it.

‘Go hard or go home' catios

If you're after something a little extra that your cat will love and it's in your price range, why not explore the luxury catios on the market, so your kitty can enjoy fresh air in style? With heaps of room for toys, beds, accessories, litter boxes and even you, you're going to need a fair amount of space to squeeze one of these in…

• Morgete extra large cat enclosure - complete with cat walks and platforms, this rather huge and pricey catio is designed with your kitty in mind - its simple walk-in structure means it's easy to access and can be used with a tunnel to your home.
• 15 piece urban forest - this catio really speaks for itself - your expert fence hopper will be more than content in this huge sleep-come-play pen.

DIY catio

Please only try to attempt to build a catio if you have experience with carpentry, you have experience building a catio, or you're able to call in a local carpenter. The last option isn't very DIY catio, but it will allow you to create a safe space specifically for your cats needs. A DIY catio could save you a thousand dollars or so, but always put your cat's safety first before fun features.

Catios, yes, but what about cardboard cat houses?

As a well-seasoned pet parent, you’ll probably already know that many of our feline friends love nothing more than making themselves comfortable in a cardboard box or two, so check out these cardboard cat houses for your cardboard-loving kitty.