If you’ve got a cat that loves spending time outside, but you are worried about their safety, then a catio might be the perfect solution.
These clever outdoor enclosures give your feline the freedom to enjoy the sun, breeze, and birdsong, all without the risks of potentially being run over by a car, being attacked by another animal, or just getting themselves into a difficult situation you can’t protect them from.
Short for “cat patio”, these enclosures offer your furry mate the best of both worlds, i.e. stimulating outdoor access in a secure, contained space. They can be employed just as well in a small CBD apartment as they can in a suburban home with a backyard. And the benefits go far beyond just fresh air.
In this post, we’ll highlight why every cat needs a catio and why every dog mum and dad should get one for theirs.
What Is a Catio and Why Should You Consider One?
As mentioned, a catio is essentially an enclosed outdoor space designed just for cats. They can be as simple as a mesh window box or as elaborate as a multi-level outdoor cat enclosure with tunnels, platforms, and hiding spots. Some attach to windows or doors, while others can be freestanding in your yard or on a balcony.
Even predominantly indoor cats can benefit from safe outdoor time, and with a catio, you get the peace of mind knowing they’re protected from traffic, predators, and getting lost, while still giving them space to explore and enjoy the world beyond your walls.
If you want to see some examples, you can view cat enclosures here.
Benefits of a Catio
For those who own cats, there are several reasons why you might want to provide them with a catio. But here are six of the main ways they can be beneficial for your feline.
1. Keeps Your Cat Safe from Outdoor Dangers
Cats may act like they rule the neighbourhood, but outdoor dangers are very real. From busy roads and territorial toms to poisonous plants and ticks, the outside world can be a risky place for your feline.
A catio provides all the fun of the outdoors, without the hazards. Essentially, it acts like a cat-proof garden barrier, by giving your kitty the freedom to bask in the sun or watch the birds without wandering off or getting into strife.
This means you won’t have any more worries about your cat going missing or succumbing to ill-health.
2. Reduces Boredom and Encourages Natural Behaviours
Cats are natural hunters and explorers, so if they are stuck indoors all day, they can get bored and frustrated. That often leads to destructive behaviours like scratching the couch, knocking things off shelves, or over-grooming.
A catio offers feline enrichment that keeps their mind and body active. It enables them to climb, perch, sniff the breeze, sunbathe, and even chase the occasional bug. Therefore, it’s the perfect way to channel their instincts in a safe, engaging space.
This may even make your feline a much calmer and happier pet, too.
3. Supports Physical Health and Exercise
Cats, like humans, need regular movement to stay in good nick, but some, unfortunately, can be absolute lounge lizards.
However, a catio encourages climbing, jumping, stretching, and exploring, which helps them to maintain a healthy weight and improves joint mobility.
Moreover, if you add a cat climbing frame or some shelves into the mix, you’ll soon see your kitty getting more daily activity. That’s especially important for indoor cats who don’t always get enough stimulation or exercise inside the house.
4. Minimises Neighbour Complaints and Wildlife Impact
Free-roaming cats can be a source of tension in many neighbourhoods. Not least as they might dig up veggie patches, spray on fences, or disturb pets next door. They’re also a threat to native wildlife, particularly birds and reptiles.
Therefore, by installing a catio or enclosed space for your cat, you ensure they won’t be out causing trouble or contributing to declining bird populations. This results in a win for you, your neighbours, and the environment, which has got to be a good thing.
5. Reduces Stress in Multi-Cat Households
If you’ve got several cats at home, you’ve probably seen at least one of them engage in the occasional hissy fit. That is because space, or lack of, can be a big trigger, especially if your cats don’t always get along at the best of times.
A catio gives your cats the option to spread out and enjoy their own space. That little bit of separation can do wonders for reducing tension and territory disputes within your home.
6. Customisable, Stylish, and Easy to Install
Aside from being practical, modern outdoor cat enclosures can also be beautiful. Many options are sleek, weatherproof, and designed to blend seamlessly with your home or garden.
It doesn’t matter if you’ve got a small balcony, a big backyard, or even a garage wall, there’s a setup that can work for your space. And, as most systems are easy to install, you don’t need to be a DIY pro to create something your cat will love.
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