{"id":1383,"date":"2021-08-02T09:28:30","date_gmt":"2021-08-02T16:28:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bowmanvet.com\/blog\/?p=1383"},"modified":"2021-08-18T11:17:19","modified_gmt":"2021-08-18T18:17:19","slug":"make-your-indoor-cat-happy-build-a-catio","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.bowmanvet.com\/blog\/make-your-indoor-cat-happy-build-a-catio\/","title":{"rendered":"Make Your Indoor Cat Happy; Build a Catio"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
\"Auburn<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

It is, paws down, safer to keep your cat indoors than allow them to roam the neighborhood, cross streets, and come into contact with other animals. In fact, a strictly indoor cat tends to have a longer lifespan than an indoor-outdoor cat because of the decreased risk of illness, injury, or death.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Despite the benefits to their safety and health<\/a>, some indoor-only cats suffer from boredom and depression. A catio can provide exercise opportunities and enrichment activities that will make your indoor cat extra happy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Pet Safety for Indoor Cats<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

A catio is an enclosed outdoor cat space that gives an indoor cat the best of both worlds. No longer confined behind glass windows, walls and doors, they can enjoy fresh breezes, sunlight, bird songs, and so much more through screens or fencing materials.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Beyond the Cardboard Box<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Sure, there are lots of indoor-only cats<\/a> that are purr-fectly happy <\/a>to hop between their bed and yours. But if your feline begs to be let out, or intently watches the birds and squirrels through windows, a catio may be the next step.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Designing a Catio<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Your cat\u2019s enclosure can be any shape or size, and there are loads of DIY catio designs online<\/a> to inspire you. Choose between safe, non-toxic materials, such as cedarwood, galvanized wire, and mesh screening. You can build a catio on a concrete slab, deck, or out on the lawn. Some cat owners build right off of a ground-floor window!\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you build a large enclosure you can even hang out there with your cat. Place a comfy chair<\/a> underneath some shade and watch your cat enjoy the great outdoors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The bottom can be built with wood or open to whatever\u2019s underneath. A concrete bottom can be improved with an outdoor rug or AstroTurf. A sturdy roof and\/or UV protective sunshade are excellent options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Extra Catio Elements<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The sky\u2019s the limit when it comes to your catio\u2019s amenities. Your indoor cat may like any of these additions to their cool, new place:<\/p>\n\n\n\n