Cat lovers were treated to a feline feast of inspiring outdoor enclosures at the 2024 Catio Open House, an event organized by Catio Tour Seattle in partnership with Catio Spaces and The Humane Society of the United States. Catio Tours are a growing trend for showcasing how cats can safely enjoy the outdoors, free from the dangers of cars, predators, poisons, and other hazards, and provide peace of mind. Attendees can see catios up close and personal and learn about the benefits of protecting cats, birds, and wildlife.
The Seattle catio tours are an annual event, alternating with a free, educational Catio Open House (even number years) and a Catio Tour (odd number years) featuring 6-8 catios built by homeowners and contractors. Ticket sales for the tour benefit local animal welfare organizations. The events are a fun and inspiring way to connect with the cat-loving community.
This year’s educational Open House featured two catio host locations with various catios, from small and compact spaces to larger catios with space for humans, too!
ASHWORTH MANOR CATIOS
“Providing cats with outdoor access in enclosures ensures we are good cat owners and good neighbors. It means being responsible for wildlife, responsible for community space, and responsible for the safety of our cats.”
~ Jennifer Hillman, VP Wildlife Protection, The Humane Society of the United States
Nestled in abundant gardens surrounding their home, six lucky cats enjoy a series of catios created by Jennifer Hillman, her husband Dan, and their handyman. It’s truly a cat haven!
A covered deck catio overlooking the backyard garden provides an inviting space for feline and human bonding. Tabby Daisy enjoys a lazy afternoon relaxing on a shelf while Lily poses for the camera.
Lily was adopted in 2006 through the Feral Cat Spay Neuter Project, where Jennifer and Dan first met as board members, and her cute face has become a spokesmodel for the organization. She was rescued on the side of a freeway along with three littermates and her mama and now lives a happy and safe catio life.
Cat tunnels connect the house to Jennifer and Dan’s outdoor offices and several catios throughout their garden, offering exercise and stimulating views.
Window box catios in two locations provide a bird’s eye view of bird feeders and backyard gardening activities, a favorite spot for tabby Little to enjoy a treat and hang out.
SERENA’S GARDEN GETAWAYS
“Cats naturally want to be outside where they can breathe fresh air and experience the sights, sounds, and stimulation of the natural world. A catio provides a solution for the indoor/outdoor dilemma to keep cats safe, healthy, and happy outdoors.”
~ Cynthia Chomos, Founder & Catio Designer, Catio Spaces
A backyard oasis features a gable-roof Catnap catio and the purrfect setting for tabby Serena to follow the sun, from several catios and cat tunnels to a window box in the front yard.
After exiting the house through a wall-mounted cat door, Serena travels through an elevated cat tunnel and arbor catio, providing a territorial view of the garden.
Inside the gable-roof Catnap catio, multiple horizontal and vertical shelves, including a cat spiral staircase, provide spaces for walking, lounging, and exercising.
In addition to the staircase, Serena’s favorite spot is a comfy lounge where she can enjoy birdwatching, catnapping, and bonding with her mom, Cynthia.
Another 40 feet of cat tunnels along the fence lead to a small birdhouse-style catio.
A window box catio overlooks the front garden where Serena enjoys lounging in the afternoon sun.
Whether a catio is large or small, simple or luxurious, there are many ways to build a catio to complement your home. Your cat will thank you for it, and so will the birds and wildlife in your community!
Are you interested in attending a catio tour in your area for inspiration? Check out the national catio tour directory.
How can you have a catio for your cat? Various options include catio kits, DIY catio plans, or hiring a local contractor to build one for you.
Life is good in a catio!
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.
