How to Make a Catio (Cat Sunroom) | Safely Enjoy Fresh Air Outdoors | ブリちょく
Cats| ✍️ BreederDirect Editorial
How to Make a Catio (Cat Sunroom) | Safely Enjoy Fresh Air Outdoors
We explain the design and DIY methods for catios (cat outdoor enclosures). From window-mounted types to balcony types and garden installations, we introduce how to build a catio where cats can safely enjoy fresh air and important precautions.
Key Takeaways
We explain the design and DIY methods for catios (cat outdoor enclosures). From window-mounted types to balcony types and garden installations, we introduce how to build a catio where cats can safely enjoy fresh air and important precautions.
For indoor-only cats, a catio is an ideal facility where they can safely enjoy fresh air and sunlight. Catio is a coined term combining "cat" and "patio," and refers to a dedicated outdoor space for cats surrounded by mesh or wire. We'll explain how to build a catio where cats can experience the outdoors without the risk of escape or accidents.
Types of Catios and How to Choose
There are several types of catios to choose from depending on your living environment.
The window-mounted type is the most compact option. It has a box structure that attaches to the window frame, allowing cats to enter and exit through the window to breathe fresh air. The advantage is that no construction is required and it's easy to install in rental properties. While size is limited, it's sufficient for one or two cats to enjoy sunbathing.
The balcony-enclosure type encloses an existing entire balcony with mesh or wire. It provides ample space and allows for the installation of cat walks and hammocks. For apartments, you must check the management regulations.
The garden-installation type offers the greatest flexibility. An independent structure is installed in the garden, allowing direct access through windows or pet doors. Larger versions can accommodate cat towers and plants, making them an ideal play space for cats.
Catio Installation Type Comparison
Type
Features
Cost Estimate
Rental
Window-mounted
Compact, no construction
¥30,000–80,000 (portable)
◎
Balcony enclosure
Spacious, cat walks possible
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If you're building one yourself, keep these points in mind.
Frame materials are typically wood (SPF lumber or hinoki) or aluminum pipe. Wood is easy to work with and inexpensive, but requires weatherproofing for outdoor use. Aluminum pipe is lightweight and rust-resistant, making it easier to maintain in the long term.
Stainless steel wire mesh (0.8–1.2 mm wire diameter, 25–30 mm openings) is the most durable mesh material. Plastic netting is inexpensive but not recommended because cats can tear it with their claws. File the edges of wire mesh smooth to prevent injury to cats and cover with a wood frame.
As a size guideline, a minimum of about 0.5 tatami mat (approximately 4.6 sq ft/0.42 sq m) per cat is needed. Ensure a height of at least 120 cm so cats can stand up and stretch. Installing shelves at different levels allows for vertical movement, increasing satisfaction even in limited spaces.
Essential Amenities and Layout
Set up amenities inside the catio for cats to stay comfortable.
Shaded areas: Always install a roof or shade to avoid direct sunlight. Cats are sensitive to heat, so shaded areas are essential to prevent heat stroke in summer
High perches: Create vertical pathways with shelves and cat walks. Cats gain a sense of security by overlooking their surroundings from high places
Scratching posts: Install posts wrapped with logs or sisal rope. Outdoor scratching is effective for stress relief in cats
Hammocks and beds: Provide comfortable lounging spaces for sunbathing. Mesh hammocks offer good ventilation
Water station: Essential, especially in summer. Place it in a location away from direct sunlight
Placing planters with cat grass, catnip, and silvervine helps cats connect with nature and increases their enjoyment. However, never place toxic plants such as lilies.
Safety Measures and Escape Prevention
The most critical aspect of a catio is preventing escape. Ensure there are no gaps in the enclosure.
Cats will escape through any gap their body can fit through. Gaps of 7 cm or more are dangerous. Pay special attention to mesh joints and frame corners, securing them firmly with screws or clamps, not just zip ties. If you have a door, use a double-door structure for added safety.
Seal the floor with concrete or decking to prevent digging out. If installing on soil, lay mesh on the ground or bury the frame about 20 cm deep.
Use pet-safe paint on wood where cats might chew, not preservatives. Preservatives and standard paints may contain substances harmful to cats.
Do not place cats in the catio during typhoons or high winds, and regularly inspect the frame and mesh for deterioration.
Catio Design and Construction
Design Points
A catio (dedicated outdoor enclosed space for cats) should ideally have a structure allowing direct access from windows or doors. Points to consider when designing are as follows:
Size: A minimum of about 2 tatami mats (approximately 32 sq ft/3 sq m) per cat is desirable
Height: Ensure a height of at least 2 m to allow for vertical movement, with shelves and logs installed inside
Mesh material: Stainless mesh or welded wire fencing is safest. It resists tearing from cat claws and is rust-resistant
Roof: A roof is essential for rain and sun protection. Polycarbonate is lightweight and durable
Entrance/Exit: A cat door (flap) allowing free access maintains the cat's autonomy
DIY or Professional?
Simple DIY versions cost around ¥50,000–100,000, while professional installation costs around ¥300,000–800,000. For rental properties, a portable balcony-mounted type (¥30,000–80,000) is recommended.
Safety Measures
Do not place toxic plants (lilies, ivy, pothos, etc.)
Thoroughly check for escape gaps (cats can escape through gaps as small as 3 cm)
Ensure shaded areas to prevent excessive direct sunlight
Provide a warm space for winter (box with blankets, etc.)
Cat-Safe Plants for Your Catio
Placing plants in the catio provides a more natural environment for cats. However, toxic plants must be strictly avoided.
Cat-Safe Plants
Cat grass (oat, wheat): Aids in hairball expulsion
Catnip (Nepeta cataria): A scent cats enjoy with relaxing effects
Cat thyme: An herb that is safe for cats
Basil and parsley: Harmless to cats in small amounts
Rosemary: May interest some cats
Plants to Avoid
Lilies and related plants (all lilies, tulips, hyacinths) are highly toxic to cats. Even licking a small amount of pollen or water from a vase can cause acute kidney failure.
Installation Methods for Rentals and Apartments
There are ways to enjoy a catio even in multi-unit housing.
If enclosing a balcony, first check the management regulations. If there are restrictions on using the balcony as an emergency exit route, design it so emergency hatches or barriers remain unobstructed. Tension rod-style frames can be installed without drilling holes in walls or railings, making restoration to original condition easier when moving out.
Window-mounted types can be installed in most rental properties. Choosing a type that mounts inside the window frame won't damage the building. Use strong tension rods or clamps to secure it firmly against wind.
You can also recreate the catio atmosphere indoors. Place a cat tower by the window and use a window screen to bring in fresh air. This alone provides significant refreshment for cats.
On Br-choku, you can consult with breeders about cat breeds suited for indoor-only living and highly active cat breeds. When considering the right size catio for your cat's personality and exercise needs, breeder expertise can be valuable.
