Catio FAQ's

A catio, or cat patio, is a great way for your feline friends to enjoy the outdoors safely. However, during the winter months, the cold weather can present some challenges. Here’s what you can do to make sure your catio is winter-ready:

1. Provide Shelter: Make sure there’s a sheltered area within the catio where your cat can escape the wind and cold. This could be a small, insulated cat house or even a covered area with warm bedding.

2. Use Heated Pads: Consider adding heated pads or a heated cat bed to provide extra warmth. Make sure any electrical components are safe for outdoor use and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

3. Check for Drafts: Seal any gaps or cracks that might let in cold drafts. You can use weather stripping or caulking to close up any openings.

4. Add a Windbreak: If the catio is in an exposed area, consider adding a windbreak using tarps, clear plastic sheeting, or other materials. This can help reduce the wind chill factor inside the catio.

5. Provide Fresh Water: Make sure your cat has access to fresh water that’s not frozen. You might need to check and refresh the water more frequently in freezing temperatures, or use a heated water bowl.

6. Monitor the Temperature: Keep an eye on the temperature inside the catio. If it’s too cold, it might be best to keep your cat indoors. Remember, if it’s too cold for you, it’s probably too cold for your cat.

7. Keep it Clean: Snow, ice, and wet conditions can make the catio messy. Regularly clean the space to keep it comfortable for your cat.

8. Consider Temporary Enclosure: If the weather is particularly harsh, you might want to enclose the catio with clear plastic sheeting or other materials to create a greenhouse effect. This can help trap warmth inside.

9. Supervise Your Cat: Always supervise your cat when they are in the catio during the winter months. Be ready to bring them inside if they seem uncomfortable or if the weather takes a turn for the worse.

10. Provide Entertainment: Since your cat might be spending less time in the catio during the winter, make sure to provide plenty of indoor entertainment and enrichment.

11. Consult a Veterinarian: If you have any concerns about your cat’s health or well-being in cold weather, don’t hesitate to consult with your veterinarian. They can provide specific advice tailored to your cat’s needs.

Remember, not all cats will enjoy being outside in the cold, even in a sheltered catio. Pay attention to your cat’s behavior and preferences, and be prepared to keep them indoors if that’s what they prefer. By taking these precautions, you can ensure that your catio remains a safe and enjoyable space for your cat all year round, even in the chill of winter.

For more: check out our outdoor heated cat house.

1. Material

The most commonly used materials for catios are wire mesh or chicken wire. Both are durable and can prevent cats from escaping while also keeping potential predators out.

2. Gauge

• 16-gauge wire is a popular choice for catios.
• 19-gauge wire can also be used for smaller catios.
• Consider 14-gauge wire for areas with larger predators.

3. Mesh Size

• Common sizes: 1 x 1 inch or 1 x 2 inches.
• For protection against smaller pests, use 1/2 x 1/2 inch mesh.

4. Durability

Consider choosing galvanized wire, which is rust-resistant.

5. Visibility

Larger mesh size or thinner gauge provides better visibility.

6. Location and Size

Ensure sturdiness for higher floors or larger catios.

7. Additional Protection

Add hardware cloth or similar barrier for extra protection against predators.

1. Number of Cats: If you have multiple cats, you’ll need a larger space to ensure each cat has enough room to move, play, and rest.

2. Activity Level: Active cats will appreciate a larger space with climbing structures, while less active cats might be content with a smaller space.

3. Duration of Stay: If your cat will spend long hours in the catio, it should be larger and more enriched. For short visits, a smaller catio might suffice.

4. Available Space: Your available outdoor space will dictate how large you can make the catio. Some people have expansive catios that take up a significant portion of their yard, while others have small balconies with compact catios.

5. Budget: Larger catios with more features will be more expensive. Determine your budget beforehand and plan accordingly.

6. Features: If you plan to include features like shelves, ramps, hammocks, and toys, you’ll need more space.

As a general guideline:

• -Small Catio: At least 3x3x3 feet. Suitable for one cat and short stays.

• -Medium Catio: Around 8x8x8 feet. Can accommodate 1-2 cats comfortably with some play structures.

• Large Catio: 10x10x8 feet or larger. Suitable for multiple cats or cats that spend a lot of time outside. Can include multiple levels and play structures.

• For more information visit: catio types

1. Shelving and Platforms: Cats love to climb and perch. Install various levels of shelves or platforms for your cat to jump onto and lounge on.

2. Cat Trees and Condos: These provide both climbing opportunities and cozy spots for cats to rest.

3. Toys: Dangling toys, balls, and interactive toys can keep your cat entertained.

4. Scratching Posts: These are essential for cats to maintain their claws and mark their territory.

5. Grass and Plants: Consider planting cat-friendly plants like catnip, cat grass, or wheatgrass. Ensure that any plants you introduce are non-toxic to cats.

6. Hammocks: Cats love to lounge in hammocks, especially in a breezy spot.

7. Tunnels: Cats enjoy hiding and playing in tunnels. They can be a fun addition to a catio.

8. Water and Food Bowls: Ensure your cat has access to fresh water at all times. You can also place their food bowls in the catio if you want them to dine al fresco.

9. Litter Box: If your cat spends a lot of time in the catio, consider placing a litter box there. Make sure it’s cleaned regularly.

10. Beds and Cushions: Soft, cozy spots for your cat to nap can make the catio even more appealing.

11. Bird Feeders (Outside the Catio): Placing bird feeders just outside the catio can provide entertainment for your cat as they watch the birds. Ensure the feeders are positioned so that birds are safe from any potential cat paws.

12. Water Features: A small fountain or water feature can be both a source of drinking water and entertainment for your cat.

13. Safe Plants: Some plants can be toxic to cats, so ensure any plants inside or near the catio are safe. Some safe options include spider plants, Boston ferns, and areca palms.

14. Interactive Elements: Consider adding elements like dangling ropes or feather toys that move with the wind.

15. Shaded Areas: Ensure there are shaded spots where your cat can escape from the sun, especially during hot days.

16. Secure Entry and Exit: If the catio is not directly attached to your home, ensure there’s a secure way for your cat to enter and exit, such as a cat door.

1. Framework:

   • Wood: Treated lumber or cedar are popular choices. Ensure the wood is safe for pets and doesn’t have harmful chemicals.
   • PVC: Some people use PVC pipes for a lightweight structure.

2. Enclosure Material:

   • Wire Mesh or Chicken Wire: This is the most common material used to enclose the catio. It’s durable and provides good visibility.
   • Hardware Cloth: A sturdier option than chicken wire, it’s also harder for predators to tear.
   • Netting: Some catios use special cat netting which is softer but still durable.

3. Flooring:

   • Natural Grass: If you’re placing your catio directly on the ground.
   • Wooden Flooring: For an elevated catio.
   • Pavers or Tiles: Easy to clean and can look aesthetically pleasing.
   • Outdoor Rugs: Provides a soft surface for cats to walk on.

4. Shelter & Shade:

   • Roofing: This can be made from corrugated plastic, tarp, or even wooden slats.
   • Plants: Non-toxic plants can provide shade and an element of nature. Ensure the plants you choose are safe for cats.

5. Access Points:

   • Cat Door: Installed on a window or wall to allow your cat to enter and exit the catio.
   • Human Door: If the catio is large, you might want a door for human access for cleaning and maintenance.

6. Furniture & Enrichment:

   • Cat Trees & Shelves: For climbing and perching.
   • Hammocks: For lounging.
   • Toys: To keep your cat entertained.
   • Scratching Posts: Essential for any cat space.

7. Safety Features:

   • Locks: To ensure the catio can’t be opened by intruders or curious cats.
   • Double Door System: A safety feature where there’s an extra door or chamber preventing the cat from darting out when the main door is opened.

8. Weather Protection:

   • Waterproofing: If you’re using wood, make sure to waterproof it to prevent rot.
   • Wind Shields: Clear plastic or tarp can be used to block wind or rain.

9. Tools & Supplies:

   • Saw: For cutting wood or PVC.
   • Hammer and Nails or Screws: For assembling the structure.
   • Wire Cutters: For cutting mesh or wire.
   • Staple Gun: To attach the wire mesh to the wooden frame.

10. Optional Features:

• Litter Box: If you want your cat to have the option to do their business outside.
• Water & Food Bowls: Especially if your cat spends a lot of time in the catio.
• Beds or Cushions: For added comfort.