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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 downsides, such as dangerous humans, fast cars, pesticides, and wild animals. There’s also the concern about the declining bird population.
Allowing your cat outside dramatically benefits their mental 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.
How Much Does a Catio Cost? DIY, Kits, or Custom?
- 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.
2. Catio Kits
Catio kits are structures delivered to your home. The company sends you the materials, and you assemble the structure. This option costs $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.
The 3 Additional Costs to Anticipate
Let’s look at other costs that sneak into the budget.
1. Building Permits
You’ll have to obtain a building permit in some counties and neighborhoods to begin construction on your catio. Building permits vary greatly based on the size of the structure. Thankfully, catios are generally small, so you shouldn’t have to pay too much.
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.
- 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 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.
How Often Should I Let My Cat Outside?
How often you let your cat outside is entirely up to you. Still, there are a few rules regarding the weather and animals 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 $10,000, 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.
Featured Image Credit: SariMe, Shutterstock
