A very important aspect of keeping healthy, happy cats is environmental enrichment. One of the ways I do that for my males, both neutered and intact, and geriatric rescues is fresh air and “outdoor” activities. Sixteen years ago, I put in a large cat yard that encompassed a garden and trees. It was a cat fence, designed, of course, to keep cats inside. As time went by, the yard changed. Most of the trees were ash and died and had to be removed. I replaced them with shrubby type trees. Over the years, I put in a variety of hosta and some rose bushes along with ferns in the shadier spots. The hosta was a favorite of the cats. Hot summer days were spent lounging in the shade of the large plants.

In the fall the cats enjoyed chasing leaves. It was a an enjoyable experience to watch them play. In the winter, many enjoyed the cold air. Over the years, I did have a handful of escapes. The last escape was last autumn. Mars got out. I could see him, but he was worried. I managed to get him with Churu bribes. At that time, I took a hard look at the then 15 year old fence. It was wearing out. It had numerous repairs. It just wasn’t safe. I either had to replace it or come up with another idea.

The cats went on lock down while I thought about it. With bird flu being an issue, and having a high mortality in cats, I didn’t want the cats to have access to birds anymore. I decided to have a catio built. I combed the internet for ideas. Premade ones, ones with floors, ones with caged tops, different screening …. It was overwhelming. I finally chose an outdoor “room”. If you have been to my house, you know how wet the ground gets. The base was put in, then screenings, and then pavers. It can just be hosed down. They can use the same cat door they used for the yard. I chose 1 inch square wire “fencing” for the walls. It’s sturdy and safe. And a clear roof to keep the birds but not the sun out. My friend Lisa helped with the design. I did not put any fixtures inside it yet other than some yard toys from the days I had puppies. I did order an outdoor cat tower. I haven’t put it together yet. It’s supposed to be water proof.

The verdict so far is: Fireball adores it, S’More spends every evening out there and the others go in and out. If I sit in the chair out there, usually about 5 stay out with me.