13 Catio Design Ideas for Your Purry Friend

There’s plenty of research to support keeping domestic cats indoors. Not only are house cats infamous for taking out native songbird populations, but roaming around outside can also be extremely dangerous for your feline companion.

Every cat owner wants to give their pet the best life possible, and a regular old cat tree doesn’t always cut it. If your cat longs to be outside and enjoy the fresh air, a catio might just be the perfect solution.

Keep reading for some of the best catio ideas that both you and your furry companion are guaranteed to love.

1. Install A Large-Sized Enclosed Cat Enclosure

If you’re looking for a creative and fun way to let your cats do some outdoor exploration at the same time keeping them safe from the dangers of the outside world, consider building a large-sized cat enclosure or “catio”! This kind of large outdoor cat enclosure should have wire mesh walls on top and sides, as well as wood flooring.

Another great option could be an outdoor patio extension tailored to fit your kitty’s needs (for basking in the sunshine and stretching those paws). When planning, remember that it’s all about providing cats with an outdoor experience while protecting them too. A large-sized cat enclosure could be just what they need!

A cozy wooden catio attached to a house, with a cat inside, surrounded by greenery and sunflowers under a clear sky — Source: @catio_living via Instagram

Spacious backyard catio with wooden flooring, mesh walls, cat trees, and cozy spots for cats to lounge and play safely outdoors — Source: @lintula.matti_ via Instagram

Outdoor catio with a wooden frame, mesh walls, tunnels, climbing branches, and a curious black-and-white cat exploring outside — Source: @catio_living via Instagram

Compact wooden catio attached to a brick house, featuring shelves and two cats enjoying the outdoor enclosure near a window — Source: @pumpkinspice_magicmice via Instagram

Spacious wooden catio attached to a brick house, featuring mesh walls, climbing shelves, and a secure outdoor play area for cats — Source: @shatterstarhomedecor via Instagram

Enclosed catio with a transparent roof, wooden platforms, cushioned perches, and a cozy cat house for a safe outdoor retreat

2. Get A Cage For Space Efficiency

Create your cat’s dream catio! Catios are enclosures that give cats safe access to the outdoors without risking their safety, and they come in a variety of sizes and designs based on your cat’s needs. If you need a more efficient option, you can opt for pre-fabricated cat cages.

These consist of basic platforms with adjustable cat gates, ideal for keeping all kinds of pets inside your catio, including birds and lizards. Those who don’t have the time or money to build their own cat cages can also look into custom-built catios, which offer an extra layer of protection while also providing valuable space.

Whether big or small or custom-built, catios are an amazing way to keep your cat safe while also giving them plenty of room to explore the great outdoors!

A wooden outdoor enclosure with a brown animal inside, standing on its hind legs, with a bowl and leaves on the ground — Source: @sarah.jayne_.murphy via Instagram

Stacked black wire cages with bedding inside, situated on a balcony near a window and railing — Source: @caseys.cats_ via Instagram

Outdoor catio setup with a metal cage beside a converted school bus, featuring a cat lounging on a perch under a canopy — Source: @skoolielove via Instagram

3. Opt For A Cage On Wheels

Compact white and brown catio with mesh walls, multiple shelves, and a cozy enclosed space for cats to climb and rest safely outdoors — Source: @catcage2020 via Instagram

Spacious brown and white catio with mesh walls, enclosed sleeping areas, climbing structures, and a secure outdoor play space for cats — Source: @catcage2020 via Instagram

Wooden catio with mesh panels, a slatted door, multiple levels, and rolling wheels for mobility, offering a secure outdoor space for cats — Source: @gazebo.qaleepha via Instagram

Large black metal catio with mesh walls, multiple shelves, and a secure door, designed for a spacious and safe outdoor cat enclosure — Source: @jurukraf.studio via Instagram

Spacious brown wooden catio with mesh walls, climbing shelves, a cozy hideout, and two cats lounging inside at night — Source: @catcage2020 via Instagram

Two-tier metal catio with Sphynx cats lounging in cozy beds, enjoying the outdoor view surrounded by autumn foliage — Source: @princehairypeterbald via Instagram

4. Get Your Cat A House

One fun catio idea is to create a cat house that looks exactly like a real human house. Start with a bungalow roof and add a shiplap on the walls – this will give the cat house a cozy, cottage feel. Add some cat-friendly plants and flowers around the cat house for your cat’s entertainment.

And don’t forget those cute window boxes so your cat can look out at the world from inside their safe haven. With the right supplies, you can easily turn any old catio into a beautiful miniature home for your precious feline friend!

White cat lounging on a stylish wooden cat house with a personalized 'Snowy' sign, a covered entrance, and a side balcony — Source: @acatnamedsnowy via Instagram

Wooden outdoor cat enclosure with mesh walls, a slanted roof, and platforms inside, with a cat sitting at the doorway looking outside — Source: @menssanaincorporesano.a_veces via Instagram

Large wooden outdoor cat shelter with multiple cat-shaped entrances, food and water stations, and a small ramp for easy access — Source: @beautifulworld_world_ via Instagram

A small, triangular-roofed cat house with a porch, white pillars, and a set of miniature white chairs on the porch — Source: @faithsfarmhouse via Instagram

Wooden cat house with clear window, brown pet door, and rope scratching post on the side surrounded by garden plants — Source: @grandadsworkshop111 via Instagram

Cat sits inside a white and brown pet house with a window on a wooden porch next to a pink two-level cat tower — Source: @jocelynfreeman via Instagram

Colorful multi-level wooden cat tree with circular openings, positioned against a white fence — Source: @miainretrolux via Instagram

Rustic wooden cat house with a grass-covered roof, a personalized 'Millie' sign, and a small entrance with a solar-powered light — Source: @millie_blackcat via Instagram

Tabby cat sitting next to a green and camo-patterned outdoor cat house on a patio — Source: @newagepetusa via Instagram

A wooden outdoor cat house with a clear window and small cat door, set on a paved patio, surrounded by trees with autumn leaves — Source: @pethouse.spb_.ru_ via Instagram

Cat yawning in front of a modern, triangular white cat house against a brick wall — Source: @Ideas via Instagram

Cat sitting in a multi-level outdoor cat enclosure on a porch with plants and a patterned rug — Source: @rainbowmccat via Instagram

5. DIY Your Own Catio With Wire Mesh

A DIY catio is a simple but creative project that provides captivating views of birds, bugs, and nature. You can make one yourself by attaching wire mesh or poles around an outdoor space to create a secure outdoor enclosure.

It’s an innovative way to ensure your pet is safe while still enjoying the great outdoors! With just a few items you can make your own DIY catio in no time, leaving your feline friend with plenty of space to explore, exercise and play.

DIY outdoor catio with wire mesh, wooden platforms, a tree branch perch, and three fluffy cats enjoying their secure play area — Source: @anzu.cats_ via Instagram

Enclosed outdoor catio with wooden framing, mesh walls, natural plants, and two cats exploring the secure space — Source: @dashybadkitty via Instagram

DIY outdoor catio with mesh walls, wooden shelves, a cozy cat bed, and three cats relaxing in their secure enclosure — Source: @the_lizaaaaaaaaa via Instagram

Three cats lounging on a sunny enclosed patio with chairs, a cat tree, and feeding bowls — Source: @thenonchalantcat via Instagram

6. Decorate The Catio With Potted Catnip

An exciting way to decorate your catio is with potted catnip plants. Not only does it add some greenery, but it also gives the kitty a special treat as an added bonus!

You can even combine the decor with ornamental grasses and other foraged materials for a truly unique habitat. Your cats will love having their own outdoor space to explore and enjoy in safety, just make sure it provides enough sunshine and you can customize your catio any way you’d like!

Outdoor cat enclosure with platforms, plants, and a cat climbing the mesh; sunlit area with shadows on the brick pavement — Source: @ela_blu_kitty_cats via Instagram

7. Tiered Cages For Multiple Cats

Catios offer endless opportunities for creative enrichment and playtime with your fur babies. From hand-crafted tiered cages to modular habitats, the options are seemingly endless! Creating tiered cages is a great way to make sure multiple cats get an equal share of fun time without disruption.

By attaching multiple cages side-by-side or stacking them on top of one another, you can keep cats off each other’s backs while still giving each one their own safe environment to explore and have fun.

And let’s not forget about the things in your catio that keep it looking nice; use colorful rugs, plants, climbing structures, toys, and other accessories for an inviting space for your cats!

Outdoor multilevel cat enclosure with wooden shelves, wire mesh sides, and a blue litter box placed against a brick wall — Source: @natural.learning via Instagram

8. Experiment With Vertical Spaces

Catios are the perfect way to provide your feline friend with the outdoor access they crave while keeping them safe from predators. When considering ideas for your catio, wall ramps are an easy addition that will give them a fun way to jump up and down; while providing them with vertical lounge space can really help make it something special.

You could also add some plants to give them areas to explore, and clear roofing so they can still bask in some much-needed sun. With just a little bit of creativity, you can easily craft the perfect outdoor oasis for your fur baby.

Outdoor cat enclosure with wire mesh, wooden structure, perches, ramps, and soft bedding attached to a house with lighting inside — Source: @purrdolls via Instagram

9. Match The Cage With Nature

Painting the cage in a green or natural tone will help it seamlessly blend with its surroundings. Place plants around the cage and include bird feeders to offer visual stimulation as well as calming sounds of birds chirping.

Tire swings or scratching posts inside the cage are fun additions that enrich your cat’s life and encourage mental exploration of the outdoors. With a bit of creativity, you can create an enjoyable haven for your pet while promoting environmental sustainability.

A cat sits inside a large green outdoor enclosure surrounded by trees and garden decorations in a forested area — Source: @standuplibrarian via Instagram

10. Build A Durable Catio With Metal Frames

Creating a durable and comfortable catio for your feline friend is easy when you start with quality materials. Metal frames are an excellent choice because they’re strong, durable, and can withstand all sorts of weather conditions.

When you add on durable netting or PVC panels to keep your cat safe, you’ll have the perfect outdoor space that provides much-needed stimulation and fresh air. Then all that’s left to do is to accessorize with a few toys, scratching posts, and even some plants for added environmental enrichment.

With these ideas in mind, you’ll be sure to craft the perfect secure oasis for your beloved feline in no time!

Two cats in an outdoor cat enclosure with a tunnel, umbrella, and toys next to a house with several doors — Source: @tobyovyfien via Instagram

11. Screen Your Porch

Catios, or cat patios, are a great way to co-habitat with your pet and provide them with fresh air. If you’re looking for creative patio ideas, using a porch with a screen is an ideal option. This allows your cat to relax and breathe in the fresh air without being exposed to any of nature’s potential risks!

You can also use this porch to lounge with your kitty and spend some quality time outdoors while enjoying their company in the comfort of your own home. Not only will you be able to make outdoor memories together, but you’ll also be providing a safe environment where your pet can enjoy the best of both worlds – indoors and outdoors!

Cat sitting on a pink rug, looking at an outdoor patio with a beige couch and a basket on a shelf — Source: @cocoaguscaca via Instagram

Black and white cat sitting on a tall white shelf on a porch, with trees visible in the background — Source: @havenkp via Instagram

Cat play area on a wooden deck with tall scratching posts, a small rug, stairs outside, and lush greenery visible through windows — Source: @laurenlapointecoach via Instagram

Spacious porch catio with a black mesh enclosure, attached to a modern house, providing a safe outdoor space for cats and relaxation — Source: @protectapet via Instagram

Enclosed balcony catio with a wooden frame and mesh walls, providing a secure outdoor space with climbing shelves and cozy seating for cats — Source: @shatterstarhomedecor via Instagram

Outdoor patio with seating, red wall, and a glass-enclosed catio with climbing structures and toys; potted plants decorate the area — Source: @Ideas via Instagram

12. DIY Walkway Ramps

DIY walkway ramps coupled with reclaimed wood and scratch boards are all you need to give your feline friend their own private outdoor retreat.

Designing DIY walkways from one level of the catio to another can both provide a sense of exploration and exercise in your cats’ life while also making sure they stay safely inside their catio environment.

Meanwhile perches made with reclaimed wood and enough room for scratching posts can make sure your kitty has plenty of activities right outside your door.

Three cats explore a wooden climbing structure in an outdoor enclosure, with houses and trees in the background — Source: @akitakittenpack via Instagram

Bright yellow and black outdoor cat playground with multiple levels and platforms, surrounded by lush greenery — Source: @catcage2020 via Instagram

A covered balcony with a wall-mounted cat box, a small platform, and a ladder. A view of the city and mountains is visible outside — Source: @catsquad.sa_ via Instagram

Modern multi-level catio with ramps, platforms, and a bamboo-themed backdrop, providing a stylish and secure outdoor space for cats — Source: @citykittykamloops via Instagram

Beautifully decorated catio with lush potted plants, wooden perches, hanging planters, and a relaxed cat enjoying the greenery — Source: @kristyleighahumada via Instagram

Wooden cat play area with plants, a small green-roofed shelter, and a curved walkway — Source: @my_bengals_and_pets via Instagram

13. Set Up A Window Catio Extension

Catios are a great way to give your feline friend some much-deserved outdoor time without worrying about them wandering off. Instead of building a completely new addition to your home, why not consider window extensions?

These window extensions are essentially window-sized balconies and come with screens so that no pests or predators can get in! This practical catio idea is an inexpensive and easy way to provide your kitty with all the sun, breeze, and view they need while remaining secure.

Four cats relax inside a catio with wire mesh, attached to a building under a shaded awning — Source: @aruba_cats via Instagram

Compact window catio with a sturdy black frame, mesh sides, and a secure outdoor perch, providing fresh air and a view for indoor cats — Source: @cat_toy_lady via Instagram

Wooden window catio with mesh walls, multiple levels, and two cats lounging, offering a secure outdoor space connected to the house — Source: @daphnedawn_thecat via Instagram

Two black cats in a multi-level outdoor cage attached to a bus window, surrounded by trees — Source: @soulfulbuslife via Instagram

DIY window catio with a wooden frame and mesh enclosure, featuring potted plants and two cats enjoying fresh air from a secure perch — Source: @Ideas via Instagra

Can you leave a cat in a catio unsupervised?

For your cat’s safety, supervision is recommended. This doesn’t mean you need to be right next to the catio at all times. But you should be close enough to intervene if your cat gets stuck, attempts an escape, or otherwise needs your help.

Do you need to include a litter box in your catio?

It’s always a good idea to include a litter box in your outdoor cat enclosure. If your cat will only be spending short periods of time in the enclosure and space is limited, it’s fine to leave out the litter box. Just make sure your cat has a means of getting to their litter box (or letting you know) if the need arises.

Are there any other risks associated with using a catio?

Keeping cats indoors protects them from a lot of environmental hazards. Staying up-to-date on vaccines is especially important if you want to start letting them spend time outside in a catio. There’s very little chance your cat will catch a mouse or bird in their outdoor enclosure. But there’s still a chance they could be exposed to viruses or parasites.

13 Catio Design Ideas for Your Home