A catio is a portmanteau of ‘cat patio’, an outdoor cat enclosure that provides safety and enrichment. Your cat will still get fresh air and exercise, but won’t be able to roam too far.
They’re mostly used by people who have indoor cats but who want the cats to get fresh air. They have space to explore, without damaging your home.
A catio can either attach to your home, be freestanding in your garden or be fitted to a balcony. Access can be granted through an open door or window, or through a cat flap if you want to give them a bit more free rein (and prevent cold draughts!)
It allows your cat a sensory experience they otherwise wouldn’t have, whether you can’t allow them out because of where you live or because of medical conditions such as FIV.
When choosing a catio, there is a lot to consider. You need to think about the space you can afford to give to the enclosure, as well as the material. Wood will drill into the brickwork of a house easier than metal, yet metal needs less upkeep.
Below are the best catios and outdoor cat enclosures available to buy online, in various sizes and for various uses.