Cat-lovers have a variety of reasons for building their cats a catio.
- To keep them safe
Every week there are dozens of posts on Facebook about missing indoor/outdoor cats who wander off or get spooked by a noise. A catio allows cats to be outside and keeps them safe at the same time. Cat owners know that most kitties love to explore outside. But allowing cats out on their own can be dangerous. A catio keeps cats away from moving cars, toxic substances, vicious animals, and loose dogs. - To enrich their lives
“A cat’s natural behaviours include hunting and chasing, which many domestic felines don’t have the opportunity to do when cooped up in their homes. This lack of activity may result in boredom, which experts say can lead to more serious health issues.”
Source: Why ‘catios’ are great for your cat’s well-being — and how to build one your pet will love
A catio encourages jumping, balancing, and climbing on safe perches instead of being lazy or destructive indoors. Cats can feel the sunshine and the breeze. - To keep birds and other wildlife safe
Catios provide the space and visual stimulation needed for cats to tap into their apex-predator instincts without getting lost or harming the environment, such as killing birds and other small animals.