DIY Cat Run/Catio

 

Just like when humans are in a better mood when they’re soaking up some sunshine, the same is often true for cats! Give your cat some sunshine happiness while still keeping them safe by giving them a chance to stimulate their senses with the scents, sounds, and scenery of the outdoors. Here are some tips on how to create your own catio for your feline friend. 

 

If you’ve got a balcony or porch

 

Expand your cat’s environment by providing them with a secure outdoor area. Use netting to keep your cat in a safely enclosed space; rigid netting to safely enclose your space if the top of your balcony is cat-proofed or fully enclosed. If not, then the netting should be floppy (but not stretchy) to discourage climbing.

To prevent your cat from getting caught, the openings in the netting should be about 50mm wide. Check netting regularly to make sure it remains safe and secure.

If you’ve got an outdoor area

 

Let your cat take advantage of the outdoors whilst staying safe by making your backyard escape-proof and allowing your cat to travel indoors and outdoors as they please. 

  • Link your outdoor area to the inside of your house by using a cat flap, to allow your cats the independence to choose where they want to go and when.
  • Make sure to close off gaps and trim overhanging trees to prevent your cat from escaping.
  • Use rolling cylinders, smooth metal, or plastic sheeting to modify the tops of existing fences that are high enough (approx. 1.8m or higher) so that your cat cannot escape over the fence. Regularly check fencing to ensure that it’s still safe and secure.
  • Make sure there are no dangerous items in the yard or sharp edges used in the fencing.
  • Fence extensions are legal in most instances if they are entirely on your side of the fence. However, some properties may have restrictions on the height of fences. It is best to check with your local council to see what restrictions may apply to your property.
  • If you have a problem with other cats coming into your yard, observe whether they are able to climb over the fencing. If so, you may need to make extra modifications which could include talking to your neighbour to install cat proof fencing on their side of the fence. This will stop other visiting cats from getting into and becoming trapped in your yard.

 

Keeping your cat happy and healthy indoors

 

If you don’t have an outdoor space or porch, you can make sure that the great indoors is stimulating for your cat and provides them with lots of choice.  Here are some tips on how to modify your indoor space to keep them happy, healthy and stimulated.

  • Give your cat enough space to move around and ensure they have areas for toileting, sleeping, hiding, exercising and playing. Make good use of the vertical space in your home to provide your cat with extra options for climbing, perching, hiding, observing and exploring.
  • Use cat-proof screens on windows and doors, so that your cat can enjoy the smells, sounds and scenery of the outdoors whilst staying safe indoors.
  • Remember, if your cat is new to being kept inside, take it slow. This can be a big adjustment for your cat (and you!) and you want to ensure you meet all their needs as they transition to a more indoor lifestyle.
  • Make sure to carefully watch how your cat adjusts to this new lifestyle. If you are concerned about your cat’s behaviour, make sure to talk to your veterinarian or a behaviourist.

 

*These tips were compiled from resources by RSPCA and SPCA.

Read RSPCA's website Keeping Your Cat Safe and Happy at Home for more paw-some tips.