Catio Ideas: How to Give Indoor Cats Safe Outdoor Time

Indoor cats are protected from traffic, predators and fights with neighborhood cats, but many still stare longingly out the window. A catio, short for cat patio, is an enclosed outdoor space that gives your cat fresh air, sunshine and sights and smells to explore while keeping them safely contained. Here are catio ideas for every size of home.

Why build or buy a catio?

• Enrichment: birds, breezes and new smells keep indoor cats mentally stimulated.
• Safety: your cat gets outdoor time without roaming.
• Wildlife friendly: contained cats can't hunt birds and small animals.
• Calmer cats: extra territory can ease boredom and tension in multi-cat homes.

Catio ideas by space

1. Window catio (smallest spaces)

A window box catio attaches outside a window, so your cat can hop out through the opening and sit in the fresh air. It's ideal for apartments and rentals where you can't use a yard.

2. Balcony or patio catio

Freestanding catios fit neatly on a balcony or deck. Look for multiple platform levels, a solid roof for shade and rain, and a door you can open for cleaning.

3. Walk-in catio (multi-cat homes)

Walk-in catios are large enough for you to step inside, with room for several cats, climbing levels and sleeping boxes. A large walk-in wooden catio is a good fit for households with three or more cats.

4. Catio on wheels

Some catios roll, so you can bring them inside in winter or move them around the yard to follow the sun.

Compare sizes and styles in our catios and outdoor cat houses collection.

What to look for in a catio

• Secure mesh on every side, with no gaps a cat can squeeze through.
• A waterproof roof or cover for shade and light rain.
• Multiple levels and ramps, because cats love height outdoors too.
• A sleeping box or shelter where your cat can retreat.
• Easy access for cleaning, and a door big enough for you to reach in.

Making your catio cat-friendly

• Add a cozy bed or blanket in a shaded corner.
• Provide fresh water, especially on warm days.
• Grow cat-safe plants like cat grass, catnip or valerian nearby. Avoid lilies, which are highly toxic to cats.
• Place it where your cat can watch a bird feeder or garden activity.

Catio safety tips

• Check the mesh and latches regularly for wear.
• Don't leave your cat outside in extreme heat or cold.
• Make sure your cat is up to date on vaccines and parasite prevention, since they'll be closer to outdoor wildlife.
• Supervise the first few sessions until your cat is comfortable.

FAQ

Is a catio worth it?

For most indoor cats, yes. A catio adds enrichment and exercise without the dangers of free roaming, and it can help bored or restless cats settle down.

How big should a catio be?

For one or two cats, a freestanding catio with several platforms is plenty. For three or more cats, consider a walk-in model so everyone has room to climb and rest.

Can cats stay in a catio overnight?

It's best to bring cats inside at night and in bad weather. Use the catio for supervised daytime outdoor time.

Find the right fit for your home in our catio collection. Every order ships free within the US.