What do you do when the sun is shining, and your cat constantly meows at the door? How can you offer your little house panther a taste of the great outdoors? And let’s be honest, an open window just doesn’t cut it at times.
There’s a simple solution: catios. Catios are like little patios for your cat. They require a little money and work upfront, yet they are totally worth it.
We know what you’re thinking—what will this cost me? Well, that depends, but we’ll break it down for you, one dollar at a time. Generally, DIY catios can cost anywhere from $0 to $500, catio kits are around $300 to $1,500, and custom catios can cost $3,000-$10,000.
Should You Let Your Cat Outside?
Allowing your cat outside is a controversial subject in the cat community. Cats are, by nature, hunters of the great outdoors. No amount of domestication can take away their desire for “the hunt.”
However, letting your cat roam freely outside has risks, such as fast cars, poisons, infectious diseases, and wild animals. There’s also the concern about the declining local wildlife population.
Many experts believe that allowing your cat outside dramatically benefits their mental and physical health and overall well-being, and a catio will allow them to “explore” outside without leaving the comforts of home. Your cat can enjoy fresh air, experience natural weather exposure, and watch wildlife without killing them.
Image Credit: The Cats, Shutterstock
How Much Does a Catio Cost? DIY, Kits, or Custom?
When you start shopping for a catio, carefully consider these elements:
Size
Materials
Tools
Shipping
Accessories
Skill
Regulations
Labor
Some catios are much simpler than others and don’t cost much to assemble, but high-end models can cost as much as home renovations.
1. DIY Catios
DIY catios are budget-friendly, costing anywhere from $0 to $500. You could spend more if you want; sometimes, you might have to if you’re starting from scratch. But overall, DIY is the way to go if you’re trying to keep a tight rein on your expenses.
Don’t worry if you don’t have construction experience. All you have to do is buy the materials and tools. Many catio companies provide affordable DIY plans that detail your construction step by step.
The nice thing about DIY catios is how versatile you can be with the materials. We’ll talk more about the materials in just a moment, but keep that in mind as we discuss kits and custom catios.
Image Credit: sophiecat, Shutterstock
2. Catio Kits
Catio kits are structures delivered to your home. The company sends you the materials, and you assemble the structure. This option can cost $300 to $1,500.
Clearly, kits are more expensive than DIY projects, especially if you want a larger catio. You’ll also have to consider the cost of shipping. Shipping costs vary from location to location, so try to order from a nearby company to reduce your expenses.
3. Custom Catios
Custom catios are the most expensive option, and they cost anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000. This is because you’re paying for manual labor and the cost of materials.
Although hiring someone to build a catio is pricey, a licensed contractor will do a better job than a first-timer.
Image Credit: SariMe, Shutterstock
The 3 Additional Costs to Anticipate
Let’s look at other costs that sneak into the budget.
1. Building Permits
Depending on where you live, you may need a building permit to construct a catio, especially if it’s a large or attached structure. Requirements vary by city, county, and neighborhood, so it’s best to check with your local building authority before you start. The good news is that because most catios are small and relatively simple, any required permit is usually inexpensive and easy to obtain.
Image Credit: hapibu, Pixabay
2. Catio Accessories and Enrichment
Building the catio is the first step. For extra fun, your cat will need accessories like cat trees and shelves. They will also need to access the catio, so you’ll have to install a cat door.
Other accessories include:
Cat-friendly plants
Litter boxes
Hammocks for shade and lounging
Flooring
Cat tunnels
Ramps
3. Building a Catio on a Budget
If you don’t want to spend thousands on a catio, you can find ways to reduce your costs. Catios can be as cheap or expensive as you want to make them. If you’re looking for something budget-friendly, use recycled materials like wood pallets and dog kennels to keep costs low.
Other materials, such as PVC pipes, tarps, plywood, tree branches, and logs, are easy to find and affordable.
If you’re unsure about the project, don’t be afraid to ask a friend for help. You can pay them for their time or take them out to dinner.
Image Credit: TheCats, Shutterstock
How Often Should I Let My Cat Outside?
How often you let your cat outside depends on both your preferences and your cat’s. Still, there are a few rules regarding the weather and other animals that you’ll need to follow.
Rule 1. Watch for high winds and rainy days, especially during the hurricane and tornado seasons.
Rule 2. Ensure your cat has water and shade in your backyard.
Rule 3. Don’t leave food in the catio for long periods; it will attract raccoons and other wild animals.
Rule 4. If you build a catio, cover the exposed nails and screws, so your cat doesn’t get cut.
Follow these rules, and you and your cat should be good to go!
Conclusion
Catios are cat paradises, and they’re affordable. You can spend any amount on a catio without shame. If you want to hire a contractor and spend thousands, go for it. However, your cat may be just as happy with a smaller DIY catio. Regardless of the design, ensure that you keep your cat safe and follow the local laws.
Cassidy, a former vet tech and professional pet sitter , has transitioned into a pet writer, driven by her passion for animals, both domestic and wild. Having cared for numerous pets over the years, she loves to write about the special bond between animals and humans. Cassidy and her husband now reside in Wichita, sharing their home with a German Shepherd named Raven, two cats named Lucy and Strudel, and a few backyard chickens.
