Every cat is unique in personality, yet their behaviors can sometimes be challenging even for the strongest kitty-human bonds. Over the years I’ve received emails from cat parents all over the world seeking solutions to their indoor/outdoor dilemma. Indoor cats can demand a taste of the outdoors by misbehaving and acting out – or get themselves in trouble when outside – and their well-meaning parents don’t know what to do.
From wishful window watchers and door dashers to fighting Toms incurring frequent vet bills, a catio can help solve a variety of cat issues.
When is it time to get a catio? Here are a few of my “time to get a catio” favorites:
1. Your cat’s indoor antics have become destructive…
A window is a cat’s favorite place to watch the outside world and engage their natural curiosity. Save your blinds and window screens by considering a safe, outdoor space for kitty to watch wildlife, smell fresh air, sunbathe, and catch an occasional bug – so much more than just peeking out a window. A cat door installed in a window, wall or door provides easy access into a catio.
2. Those more-to-love pounds need to come off…
Feline obesity is a common health issue for indoor-only cats. Catios provide additional vertical and horizontal space, so they’re great for offering otherwise sedentary cats the incentive to get more pep in their step and drop a few pounds. There’s nothing like running around the catio looking for the best view of the critters out in the yard.
3. Your adventure-seeking cat needs “space” to explore…
Cats are territorial animals. Experts disagree about exactly how much space is enough and how many cats are too many for any given house—but many experts agree that adding a bit of room and a lot of enrichment—like that provided in a catio—can help alleviate behavioral issues including urine marking, stalking, hissing or attacking other cats in the home.
4. Your backyard has become more of a wildlife war zone…
It’s a fact: free-roaming cats do damage to local wildlife and often leave unwanted “presents” for their people. Catios help cats, birds and wildlife live in harmony. Adding a birdfeeder and native, bird-friendly plants to your garden, can give your feline friend endless hours of entertainment while keeping the local bird population safe.
5. Kitty is nibbling on plants and thinks pots make good litter boxes…
One in 10 cats will have litter box issues in their lifetime, and many a curious kitty has ended up in the Vet ER from nibbling toxic indoor houseplants. Give your cat a natural solution with safe access to the outdoors and cat-friendly plants in a catio. Plus, an additional litter box outdoors can help reduce cat-related odors inside your home.
6. Your cat gets stuck in a tree (and you’re both left calling for help)…
Most of us don’t spend time in the gym training to climb the 20’ maple tree in our yard. Best to plan ahead and avoid the frightening experience of kitty getting stuck up high. Whether she’s scaled a tree to catch a squirrel, or been chased by a dog or other predator, the vertical space available in a catio provides kitty a safe outdoor adventure (and saves you from calling the fire department!).
7. Your cat’s bored of the same-old sights and smells of indoor life…
Is this all there is? Cats lacking stimulation and mental challenges can act out by being aggressive, bullying other housecats, and becoming destructive in other ways. If your kitty is challenging you for something more in life, try adding a catio and some dedicated playtime together to bring the joy back, and reduce stress in your relationship.
What about you? We want to know—when did you finally realize it was #timetogetacatio? Or does your cat need one?
Share your story with us on our Facebook page with the hashtag #timetogetacatio, and make sure to give us a “like” to see more cat-related content. And keep an eye each Tuesday for more fun, and true, time to get a catio moments.
Want to learn more about catios?
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We also offer a variety of DIY catio plans for a window, deck, patio or yard that can accommodate any sized cat family. 10% of purchases through our affiliate program is donated to animal welfare organizations.
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.
