What Is a Catio? Benefits, Ideas, and Why Cats Love Them

A catio, short for cat patio, is a safe outdoor enclosure designed specifically for cats. It gives indoor cats the chance to enjoy fresh air, sunshine, climbing, bird watching, and outdoor enrichment without the risks that come with free roaming. You may have also heard it called a cat enclosure or a cattery.

Over the last few years, catios have become increasingly popular with pet owners who want to create safer and more enriching environments for their cats while also adding something beautiful and functional to their homes.

And honestly, from a feline perspective, they are a pretty great idea.

Why Are Catios Becoming So Popular?

More cat owners are choosing to keep their cats indoors for safety and health reasons. Indoor cats are generally protected from traffic, predators, disease, and getting lost.

The problem is that indoor cats still crave stimulation and enrichment.

Cats are naturally curious. We like to climb, observe, nap in the sun, and pretend we’re hunting birds!

That’s where a catio comes in.

A well-designed catio gives cats:

• Fresh air and sunshine

• Safe outdoor exploration

• Places to climb and perch

• Mental stimulation

• Bird and wildlife viewing

• More daily activity and exercise

For many cats, a catio quickly becomes their favorite spot in the house.

What Types of Catios Are There?

Catios can be simple or elaborate depending on your space, your home, and your cat’s personality.

• Window Catios

  • Smaller enclosures attached to a window. Perfect for apartments or smaller homes.

• Patio Catios

  • Built onto an existing patio or deck so cats and humans can enjoy the outdoor space together.

• Freestanding Catios

  • Standalone structures placed elsewhere in the yard or next to the house, sometimes connected with tunnels or walkways.

• Covered Catios

  • Designed with roofing and weather protection so cats can enjoy the outdoors in more seasons throughout the year.

Personally, I’m a big fan of covered lounging areas with strategic sunbeam access.

What Makes a Great Catio?

A great catio should feel enriching and comfortable, not a cage stuck in the backyard.

Some of the best catios include:

• Multiple climbing levels

• Shelves and ramps

• Scratching surfaces

• Comfortable lounging spots

• Weather protection

• Secure mesh or fencing

• Durable outdoor materials

• Easy cleaning access

A thoughtfully designed catio should also blend naturally with your home and yard rather than looking overly industrial or temporary.

Are Catios Safe?

When built properly, catios are extremely safe.

A quality catio should:

• Prevent escapes

• Protect against predators

• Use durable outdoor materials

• Be securely anchored

• Avoid unsafe gaps or sharp edges

This is one reason many homeowners choose a professionally built catio rather than trying to piece something together with lightweight materials or temporary fencing.

Are Catios Worth It?

In my professional opinion as a cat, absolutely.

A catio gives indoor cats access to sights, sounds, smells, sunshine, and enrichment that can dramatically improve their daily lives.

For humans, catios can also become beautiful outdoor spaces that add character and enjoyment to the home.

The best catios are not just functional. They feel intentional, well-crafted, and designed to last.

Thinking About Building a Catio?

At Elmswick & Oak, we design and build custom catios that focus on:

• Safety

• Durability

• Comfort

• Craftsmanship

• Beautiful integration with your home

Whether you want a simple enclosure or a fully covered catio and patio retreat, we’d love to help bring your vision to life.

And if you ask nicely, I may even approve the final design myself.