Building or Buying a Catio in the UK: A Beginner's Guide
A catio is a secured outdoor enclosure that gives indoor cats access to fresh air, sunshine, and outdoor sights and smells without the risks of free outdoor access. Even a modest catio significantly improves quality of life for most indoor cats.
Why a catio is worth considering
For indoor cats, the outdoor world is largely inaccessible. A catio opens up a new dimension of enrichment: fresh air and natural light, sounds and smells of the outdoors, watching birds, insects, and garden activity, safe sunshine, and different textures underfoot including grass and soil.
Types of catio
Window box catio
The smallest and least expensive option. A mesh box that attaches to an open window, giving the cat a small shelf to sit in outdoors. Good for small spaces and cats who mainly want to observe outside. Cost: approximately £50 to £200 DIY; £100 to £400 for a pre-built kit.
Lean-to or attached enclosure
A larger enclosure attached to an exterior wall with a cat flap for access. Can be sized from a few square feet to a proper outdoor room. The most popular catio type in the UK. Cost: £200 to £2,000 or more depending on size and whether built or bought.
Freestanding enclosure
A separate structure in the garden connected to the house by a tunnel. Allows for larger possible sizes but is more complex to build.
Garden-enclosing system
Systems that fit around your existing garden fencing prevent cats from climbing out, giving access to the whole garden rather than an enclosed structure. Effective but requires a securely fenced garden to start with.
Building a catio: the basics
Materials: Timber frame, galvanised mesh (19mm x 19mm, 1.2mm gauge is standard), fixings, and an access door.
Key considerations:
- Include some covered area for shelter from rain
- Provide shade in summer as cats can overheat
- Add shelves, perches, or a log to climb on
- Include cat-safe plants or cat grass for sensory enrichment
- Use an easy-clean floor surface such as paving slabs or outdoor astroturf over mesh
Planning permission
Most small catios attached to a house fall within permitted development rights in England and do not require planning permission. Larger structures, listed buildings, or areas with specific planning conditions may be different. Check with your local council if you are unsure.
Buying a catio
Pre-built catios and catio kits are increasingly available in the UK from suppliers including Omlet, who make cat enclosures alongside their chicken house range, and ProtectaPet, who sell enclosures alongside their garden fencing systems. Various independent makers also build custom catios. Quality and price vary significantly. Read reviews carefully before purchasing and ensure any structure uses appropriate mesh gauge.
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Frequently asked questions
How much does a catio cost in the UK?
A basic window box catio can be built for £50 to £200. A lean-to attached enclosure ranges from around £200 to £2,000 or more depending on size. A freestanding garden enclosure or custom-built catio can be considerably more. DIY builds are significantly cheaper than buying pre-built if you have basic DIY skills.
Do I need planning permission for a catio?
Most small catios fall within permitted development rights in England and do not require planning permission. Check with your local planning authority if you are in a listed building, conservation area, or if your proposed structure is large. Rules in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland may differ.
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