5 Stylish Catio Ideas That Will Let Your Kitty Play Outside Safely

Tower Catio

Using what you already have is often a great place to start when building your catio. Consider incorporating a catio into an existing structure, like an otherwise unused shed. 

“My team and I transformed the area above this shed into a tower catio with a cat lookout and connecting tunnel to the family room to accommodate both functions,” says Cynthia Chomos, a catio designer and founder of Catio Spaces. “The catio is painted the same color as the house and trim to harmonize with the surroundings, with a few extra special touches, including a window planter box and striped awnings. The pyramid-shaped, polycarbonate roof provides weather protection for enjoyment all year long.”

Ground-Level Catio

If you’re wondering how to fit a catio into your smaller yard, look up. “Another option if space is limited is a tall and narrow footprint that provides lots of vertical space for cats who enjoy heights,” says Chomos. A compact, ground-level catio is a great choice that still gives cats plenty of access to sunshine and the cool outdoor breeze. 

“These catios can be placed in a garden bed, on a deck, or patio, especially when there are walking paths to work around. Flooring can include grass, pavers, or decking. Multiple shelves offer vertical and horizontal movement.” 

Deck Catio

If you want to be able to enjoy the great outdoors safely alongside your cat, consider converting your deck into a catio. “An open or covered deck enclosed with wire creates an escape-proof catio ideal for cats and humans to share outdoor space,” says Chomos. “Existing railings, seating, additional shelves, and cat enrichment create a safe and stimulating outdoor room. This type of catio flows from the home interior directly into the shared space.” Chances are you’ll enjoy the cat-friendly extension of your home just as much as your kitty.

Window Box Catio

You don’t necessarily have to have a large yard to create a catio for your cats to enjoy. Sometimes, all you need is a window with a beautiful view. If space for a catio is limited, a window box catio provides a perfect place for cats to watch birds and garden activities while enjoying an expansive view, says Chomos. “The window box dimensions can extend beyond the window frame to provide more space for single or multiple cat households.” You can even decorate your window box catio with cat-safe plants, like cat grass, toys, and a water feature.

Destination Catio

Just because catios are functional doesn’t mean they can’t be absolutely beautiful, and you might even want to consider making your catio the focal point of your garden or yard. “Whether large or small, elaborate or simple, painted or natural wood, there are many ways to create a visually appealing catio,” says Chomos. “As a focal point for my backyard, I designed a unique catio where my tabby Serena and I could enjoy bonding together in nature.”

Similarly to a deck catio, a destination catio can be enjoyed by both humans and cats. “A comfy six-foot human lounge with pillows creates a welcoming space for a cat nap together. Accessible through a 30-foot elevated cat tunnel connected to the house, cats can enjoy the sights and sounds between their safe interior and exterior spaces for the best of both worlds.”