by Cathy M. Rosenthal
Keeping cats indoors has long been the gold standard for responsible pet ownership. It protects them from the many dangers of the outside world—traffic, predators, parasites, and even unkind neighbors. But as much as we want to keep our feline companions safe, many cat parents feel that their cats crave more than just window-watching. Some try leash-training, but let’s be honest, getting a cat to “walk” on a leash often means standing in one spot while they roll around on the sidewalk or stare at a bird for ten minute.
So, what’s the alternative? Enter the catio.
A catio—short for “cat patio”—is an enclosed outdoor space designed just for cats. It offers fresh air, sunshine, and the sights and sounds of the great outdoors while keeping cats safe from harm. While catios have been popular in the indoor rabbit world for years, they are now gaining traction with cat parents who want to provide their felines with the best of both worlds: the safety of an indoor life with the stimulation of the outside world.
If you already have a screened-in porch, you can easily turn it into a catio with just a few additions. Install some cat shelves, a cat tree, and a few cozy resting spots, and then give your cat a way to access the space — perhaps through a cat door, an open window, or a secure door leading to the patio. With those simple upgrades, your porch becomes a feline paradise.
For those who don’t have a screened porch, building a catio from scratch is an option. These enclosed spaces are typically attached to the house, allowing cats to come and go as they please through a window or tunnel. Many people build freestanding catios in the yard, ensuring their cats can enjoy the outdoors without the risk of running into trouble. Most catios are screened-in structures with open flooring, giving cats a chance to feel the grass beneath their paws while remaining protected.
If the thought of building a catio seems overwhelming, don’t worry—there are other options. Carpenters and pet enclosure specialists can build custom catios, or you can purchase a pre-made structure. Big-box retailers now sell outdoor wooden cat houses that are nearly six feet tall, providing ample space for lounging and climbing. Online pet retailers also offers smaller, ready-made catios for those with fewer cats or limited space. These stand-alone structures may require you to carry your cat to the enclosure rather than allowing direct access from your home, but creative cat parents might find ways to modify them for easy entry.
A catio is an excellent way to enrich your cat’s environment, giving them a taste of the outdoors without the associated risks. However, one important consideration is parasite prevention. Many indoor-only cat owners don’t routinely treat their cats for fleas, ticks, or heartworm, assuming they’re safe from exposure. But even a screened-in enclosure doesn’t eliminate the risk. Mosquitoes can slip through screens and transmit heartworm disease, while fleas and ticks can hitch a ride on your clothing or other pets. If you plan to give your cat outdoor access—even in a protected catio—it’s essential to talk to your veterinarian about appropriate preventatives.
For cat parents looking to strike the perfect balance between safety and stimulation, a catio is a wonderful investment. Not only do they provide cats with fresh air and mental enrichment, but they also offer peace of mind to pet owners who want their feline friends to enjoy nature without the risks of free-roaming. Have you built a catio for your cats? If so, I’d love to hear about your setup and how your cats have taken to their new outdoor space!
Cathy is a longtime animal advocate, syndicated pet columnist, animal welfare consultant, and children’s author. Send your pet questions to moc.tidnuptep@yhtac. For more information on Cathy’s books, posters, stickers and tattoos, and workshops, visit CathyRosenthal.com.