Building a Catio – DIY Project
From Linda Gallagher,
Grandma and Granddaughter, Sammy, decided to build the catio. Little or no experience. Got the plans, bought the supplies. Son-In-Law loaned his nifty tools – chop saw, vital for 45 degree cuts, power screwdriver, etc., and was always ready to add some advise. We got it together, moved it into place, and introduced our primary cat, Gypsy, who is about 1 year old and full of energy but scared to be outside. She is in love with it!!!! Spends hours out of every day outside and safe, and sleeps when she is in! Other 3 cats showing no interest, but they are in and out kitties.
We used chicken wire instead of the other wire. It is MUCH cheaper and much easier to work with. I painted the wood before cutting and assembling. It might have been better to have put on the wire on each wall before assembling, not sure. I got lots of scratches from the wire!!! I found a screen cat door that we put in the window screen to our house. It works great. Got it for $10 from Lakeside collection. I see there are several on Amazon!
Recommend highly. Kitty learned to use it in about 1 day, with treats as incentive. We are still working on cat shelves and will probably build a cat tree. And, we need to add a ramp. Currently using a step ladder that is, actually, perfect, but will build a wooden ramp so they have more “scratching and sharpening” opportunities. All in all, Sammy and I had a great time! Learned a lot! Want to continue to build!