Does your cat sit by the window, tail flicking and eyes locked on the birds fluttering by? Or perhaps your door-dashing feline has brought a feathered “gift” to your doorstep?
For indoor cats like Mimi, Janey’s senior tabby, the desire for fresh air and outdoor stimulation is a natural instinct. With the arrival of a new kitten in her family, Janey wanted additional space and protection so that both cats could enjoy a safe and engaging environment. The solution? A catio – one that has made Mimi, her new kitten George, and even the local wildlife happier.
After assessing Janey’s backyard, we found the perfect spot for the catio outside the kitchen window, overlooking a cozy patio and a delightful backyard. From inside her home, Janey can look out the window and watch her cats enjoying catio life with peace of mind.
The window catio seamlessly blends into Janey’s home, but it’s the joy it brings Mimi and George that truly stands out. With multiple climbing shelves and cozy sunbathing perches, Mimi can watch birds flutter by while George pounces around, turning every day into a playful adventure.
The dynamic duo also participates in outdoor activities, watching Janey putter in the garden or dining with friends on the patio.
To help the playful new kitten, George, acclimate to the catio, the cat door was taped open for him to come and go for a few days until he got the hang of it. By fall, both cats had adapted to each other and continue to enjoy their catio adventures.
“The catio was the best home improvement project I did this year!” – Janey Elliot
The backyard is a wonderful haven for birdwatching, featuring several feeders, a birdbath, and plenty of bird activity. The addition of a catio is a purrfect example of how cats and birds can coexist harmoniously in the great outdoors.
CAT AND BIRD-FRIENDLY TIPS FOR YOUR BACKYARD
Birdwatching is the best cat TV from the safety of a catio! If you’re new to attracting birds to your backyard, a great resource for bird feeders, food, and finding local expertise is Wild Birds Unlimited. Consider planting bird-friendly native plants with Audubon’s plant list by zip code to keep your backyard fluttering with activity all year. Also, winter doesn’t have to stop the birdwatching our cats know and love. There are several ways you can enrich your cat’s winter view and help the birds enjoy a healthy and safe winter too.
HOW CAN I HAVE A CATIO FOR MY CAT?
There are many ways to add a catio to your home, including a window, deck, porch, patio, or garden. Catios come in various designs, and larger catios provide space for you to enjoy birdwatching and bonding with your cat outdoors. After all, fresh air and nature is good for humans, too! Catios are a win/win and a great addition for a cat and bird-friendly home.
Ready to give your cat the freedom to explore and birdwatch safely?
Our award-winning DIY Catio Plans make it easy to create a secure, enriching space where your cat can thrive, and nature can stay protected. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or prefer to leave the building to a pro, we’ve got you covered. Turn your weekend into a rewarding project and watch your cat purr with happiness while birds flutter by in peace. Life truly is better in a catio—let’s get building!”
Cynthia Chomos is a Feng Shui Consultant, Catio Designer and the Founder of Catio Spaces, creating harmonious indoor and outdoor spaces for her 4-legged and 2-legged clients. She lives in Seattle with her adorable tabby Serena (who has four catios) and is the inspiration for Catio Spaces. Cynthia offers free catio tips, DIY Catio Plans and custom catios to keep cats safe and protect birds and wildlife. You can contact Cynthia at CatioSpaces.com.
