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What is a catio?

Curious about giving your cat safe outdoor freedom? Discover the world of catios—clever enclosures that let your cat explore nature without risk. From simple pens to jaw-dropping DIY builds with treehouses and skywalks, these feline havens are popping up everywhere. See how one stunning catio in France blends style, safety, and fun—while protecting local wildlife. Ready for some serious inspiration?

A catio is basically any kind of construction providing cats with a safe outdoor area connected to the house.  They are a very familiar concept in the US, Canada and Australia where fewer people allow their cats to roam but the idea is spreading!  All kinds of commercial versions are available via the internet and there are also lots of videos on YouTube showing homemade versions. They vary in size and complexity from something which is hardly more than a small pen to the ultra-deluxe version shown here which was built in France by the husband of one of our cat fosterers for their own cats. 

While something the size and scope of this one may not be possible for many, there are plenty of ideas which could be incorporated into a smaller version. The unobtrusive linking walkways which are fastened along the fence, the enclosure built round a living tree, and the second life given to an outgrown children’s play hut – all these are definitely food for thought. 

Fresh air, safety, and no decimation of wildlife – and looking at the video, what is remarkable is how well the ‘cat space’ is integrated so that humans and felines can all enjoy the garden. 

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