Build a Catio!

Catios can be simple or elaborate; inexpensive or extreme. They have the common goal of keeping a cat safe while allowing outside time, but otherwise come in many different forms. Consider these design ideas then see below for a list of links to resources. We do not recommend any particular style or brand but hope to make it easier to keep Cats Safe at Home™!

1. Cat-only catios can be fairly inexpensive to build, can be small, and can be built in an otherwise unused space.

2. Cat and human shared catios can be transformed from an existing patio just by enclosing it with screen or wire or can be a new addition to your home. This option can also provide a great shaded, bug-free setting for people.

3. Construction can be pre-made kits or fencing, DIY, or built by a hired handyman or contractor.

4. Catio access can be through a window, door, or wall cut, and either direct or through a tunnel to another location (or add the tunnel just for fun!). You can also carry kitty to a free-standing feature.

5. Cool features are limited only by space, weather, safety concerns, and creativity! Consider ramps, cat trees, and boulders for climbing; driftwood and posts for scratching; cat-safe plants for shade and catnip for enjoyment; and fountains and perches for relaxation. Some designs incorporate a litterbox to reduce odors indoors. And of course, if space allows, lounge chairs for humans to relax with their favorite felines!

PORTLAND AREA CATIO BUILDERS

We do not specifically endorse these builders. Help us grow our list! If you build catios send us a message!

CAT FENCING, DOORS, SCREENING & WOOD

  • Cat Fence-In: Cat Fence-In specializes in cat fencing systems that attach to existing fences. Their products include cat fence conversion kits and components designed to create a safe and secure outdoor space for cats.

  • Easy Pet Fence:  The Kitty Corral Cat Fence from EasyPetFence.com is DIY cat fencing available in heights 6 and 7.5’ and offers superior protection against external predators while providing safe, easy outdoor time.

  • Habitat for Humanity ReStore: Support the community and shop reclaimed building materials at one of 4 Portland metro locations.

  • Kittyfence: Kittyfence offers a range of cat containment solutions, including cat fencing, cat enclosures, and cat gates.

  • MeowSafe: Low visibility catio netting that's UV resistant, creating a discrete yet strong DIY catio outdoor cat enclosure for your fur-baby.

  • Mr. Plywood: Locally owned, the Mr. Plywood team has experience helping people build catios, and even building their own catios - including Bret, the store’s owner. Bret says, “It’s one of the best things we did for our fur babies!” Contact: (503) 254-7387.

  • Oscillot: Oscillot is a cat containment system that consists of a series of patented paddles that prevent cats from scaling fences. The system can be installed on existing fences and is designed to keep cats safely contained within the property.

  • PetDoors.com: Wide variety of cat-specific doors and flaps for any entry type you can think of: screen, glass, walls, sliding doors - you name it!

  • Purr...fect Fence: Purrfect Fence has protected nearly 50,000 cats for individuals, vet clinics, rescues, and shelters across the globe (on every continent except Antarctica!) Purrfect Fence offers patented fencing systems, catios, and enclosures to ensure your cat(s) are safe and happy outdoors!

  • ReBuilding Center: Build the community through reuse and shop reclaimed building materials at the Rebuilding Center.

CATIO DIY & CUSTOM PLANS

  • Catio Spaces offers both custom designs and a variety of DIY Catio Plans that take the guesswork out of building a catio for window, deck, patio or garden.  Do-it-yourself plans start at $39.95 and include a materials list, step-by-step instructions and diagrams for a successful project to complement your home and your feline’s fancy.

  • My Outdoor Plans: Free step-by-step, totally DIY, catio plans. Includes tools and supply lists.

  • This Old House: Free DIY guide to create a screened-in window catio space. Includes step by step images, a cut list, tools and supply lists.

  • DIY Portable Catio: Local handyman, Mike Peroni, created, built, and donated the portable catio you see us with at trade shows and posted on our facebook page! Here are the plans for that catio!

  • ReStore Habitat for Humanity, Portland: The Business Relations Manager at Portland's Restore made a catio out of found materials, then a lucky raffle winner took it home! Check it out!

PREMADE & CUSTOM CAT ENCLOSURES

  • CDE Animal Cages has been hand-making quality catios since 1984. Offering the highest quality in both materials and craftsmanship, they have very happy clients who have enjoyed their catio for 30 years or more. Family-owned and operated, they can design, create, install and make all your catio dreams come true.

  • C&D Pets has various enclosure kits to choose from as well as other indoor enrichment products.

  • Catnets provides safe and affordable catio solutions across the USA. Whether you need a portable pre-fabricated catio for a rental or are looking to build a more permanent catio, Catnets supplies secure and durable products and materials for any space. 

  • Cat Topia is a catio company that specializes in building custom outdoor cat enclosures. An outdoor cat enclosure is a home addition that provides cats with the ability to be outside in a safe space.

  • Cats with an Altitude has developed window enclosures, called Kitty Peepers, which come in a few different sizes and can be quickly installed and removed.

  • Habitat Haven has pre-designed cat enclosure kits, build your own enclosures, and a fancy RV series for kitty life on the road.

  • Home Depot sells a ready-made catio with shelving and a roof.

  • Kittywalk enclosures has a variety of lawn, deck and patio designs to choose from.

  • Kritter Kommunity has ‘kondos’ for kitty with little assembly required.

  • Omlet has options that give your cat a secure area that they can call their own.

  • Purr...fect Fence has fencing, but sometimes there just isn’t room for a catio, so they created a Purrfect Play Tent! Perfect for people in apartments, it sets up and takes down quickly and can fit on a patio or balcony or travel to a park. Wherever your kitty is looking for a little fresh air while being safely confined.

Get more ideas at catssafeathome.org/catio-resources