Catios, or outdoor cat enclosures, offer a safe space for your curious feline friend to explore the wonders of the outdoors without the risks associated with roaming freely. Whether you have a small balcony or a spacious backyard, there’s a catio design to suit every type of cat breed and their specific needs.
Because most house cats get bored easily, allowing them access to the sights, sounds, and smells of the outside world can actually help keep them mentally engaged and enriched. A sturdy and safe catio can come to your rescue by letting your kitty be exposed to the many stimuli present outside of your home.
You can definitely consider DIYing it, but with pre-built structures readily available in the market, you can save yourself time and effort by investing in one that suits your cat’s breed and needs the best. But before we share our list of recommendations, let’s find out if cats really are happy in a catio.
Are Cats Happy in a Catio?
Yes, cats can be very happy in a catio! Catios give cats a chance to go outdoors and get fresh air and sun, and, at the same time, keep them safe from harm or any hazardous things around them. Here’s why cats love catios:
Mental Stimulation
There is always something in catios to explore, meaning that the cats will not get bored and have their minds occupied. Cats can observe the exciting outside world and also climb, jump, and play in their catio, keeping their minds engaged and active.
Physical Exercise
Many catios are designed with multiple levels, climbing structures, and cozy spots for lounging, catering to a cat’s love for climbing and perching. Climbing, jumping, and playing in the catio help cats stay active and maintain a healthy weight.
Sunbathing
Cats love to bask in the sun, and a catio provides the perfect spot for sunbathing. Sunlight can help regulate their body temperature and promote vitamin D production.
Fresh Air
When cats spend time outdoors, they get exposed to fresh air and natural scents that can be very good for their overall well-being. Fresh air can also help improve their respiratory health.
Reduced Stress
A catio can help reduce stress and anxiety in indoor cats, especially those who crave outdoor experiences. Not only can they explore the outside world safely, but a catio can also help them overcome feelings of confinement.
Customizable
Catios can be customized to suit the specific needs and preferences of different cat breeds. For instance, more active breeds like Bengals may benefit from larger spaces with plenty of vertical elements, while more sedentary breeds might prefer comfortable resting areas.
How to Introduce a Cat to a Catio?
Introducing your cat to their new outdoor sanctuary requires patience and positive reinforcement. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Prepare the Catio
Before introducing your cat, make sure the catio is fully set up and secure. Ensure the catio is clean, safe, and inviting. Feel free to add comfortable bedding, toys, and scratching posts to make it appealing.
Gradual Introduction
Start by leaving the catio door open and allowing your cat to investigate at their own pace. Spend time near the catio, offering treats and praise to encourage curiosity.
Positive Reinforcement
Reward your cat for entering the catio with treats and praise. This will assist them to understand that the catio is a place where they are bound to have a good experience.
Gradually Increase Time
As your cat becomes more comfortable, gradually increase the amount of time they spend in the catio. Monitor their behavior to ensure they are relaxed and at peace. If they seem anxious or stressed, reduce the time and try again later.
Observe and Adjust
Pay attention to how your cat interacts with the catio. If they seem to favor certain areas, consider adding more features like perches or hiding spots in those locations. Adjust the setup to better suit their preferences and enhance their comfort.
The Best Catios to Buy in 2025
Here are our picks of the top-rated catios on the market. Let’s find the perfect fit for your furry companion.
BEST OVERALL
Aivituvin Catio Outdoor Cat Enclosure
PHOTO CREDIT: Amazon
Why We Love
Five removable doors for easy access
Spacious design
Walk-in door for humans
Seven platforms for climbing and jumping
Waterproof roof
Compatible with the Aivituvin cat tunnels
But…
Setting up the catio may require time, tools, and effort
Ideal for multiple cats, the Aivituvin catio is our top pick. This fir-wood enclosure has several doors that can easily connect the catio to the window or pet door. The spacious design, complete with seven platforms and two cozy sleeping houses, caters to your cat’s natural instincts to climb, explore, and relax. A walk-in style, 64-inch tall door lets you easily enter the enclosure to interact with your cats, making feeding and cleaning a breeze.
With a waterproof roof cover, the outdoor cat enclosure allows your kitty to come out to play regardless of the weather. The flexible design means that the parts can be assembled and rearranged easily to fit the size of the room and your cat’s behavior. What’s more? You can combine it with the Aivituvin Cat Tunnel for an even more expansive playground!
Best for Multiple Cats
Kitty City Outdoor Catio
PHOTO CREDIT: Amazon
Why We Love
Made from breathable nylon mesh
Rearrangeable cubby cubes
Can accommodate multiple cats
Zip door provides convenient entry and exit
Durable
Safe and spacious design
But…
No adequate protection from rain or harsh weather
If you’re looking to create a feline paradise, then this spacious outdoor catio from Kitty City is ideal for you. It offers a stimulating environment for your cat to explore and play while being safely contained within. The durable mesh construction allows for fresh air and visibility, while the interior cubbies (which can be rearranged) serve as cozy retreats for your kitties.
It is suitable for use in homes with more than one cat because it has enough space to allow the cats to play, run, and chase each other, and have their own space to hide. Additionally, the spacious outdoor catio is easy to access with a giant zipper door and can be extended with tunnels for your cat to play with.
Best Metal
Amazon Basics Large 3-Tier Cat Cage
PHOTO CREDIT: Amazon
Why We Love
Made from rust-resistant steel wire
Three-tier structure provides ample vertical space
Easy assembly
Removable floor pan
Locking wheels allow mobility
Collapsible for easy storage
But…
Designed primarily for indoor use
The Amazon Basics Large 3-Tier Cat Cage is an ideal indoor playpen for your feline friends. Made from top-quality rust-resistant steel wire, this catio can be used for a long time. In addition, secure-locking door latches provide peace of mind. Its tall, three-tier design provides ample vertical space, allowing your cat to explore, perch, and nap on the three interior shelves.
This cat cage has lockable castors for easy movement and comes with a foldable frame for easy storage to save space. What’s more? The removable floor pan simplifies cleaning, and the swing-open doors allow for easy access to do just that!
BEST Portable
Pettzery Outdoor Cat Enclosure
PHOTO CREDIT: Amazon
Why We Love
Combines an outdoor playpen with a cat tent tunnel
Made from breathable mesh and Oxford fabric
Good ventilation
Can be set up in one minute
Includes a carry case
Easy maintenance
But…
Doesn’t feature shelves or posts for cats to perch on
A complete cat playhouse set, this enclosure from Pettzery is the stuff your kitty probably dreams about! It combines a spacious, tent-like enclosure with a tunnel that offers a perfect blend of action and relaxation for your cats. You can use it as a single unit or zip it together to make five separate combinations that your feline friend will love.
Made from top-quality materials such as mesh and Oxford fabric, the enclosure’s material is not only durable but also comfortable and, therefore, can be used both indoors and outdoors. It is one of the most versatile outdoor cat enclosures since you can easily set it up anywhere with a simple pop-up structure. It is also lightweight, so your kitty can have a fun area to play in at any time.
Best for Indoor/Outdoor
X-Zone Pet Catio
PHOTO CREDIT: Amazon
Why We Love
Multi-level design
Made from durable wood
Includes a hammock
Features small doors with secure latches
Easy to assemble
Breathable wire mesh
But…
Doesn’t have a single full-length door for humans to enter
Safety and convenience are at the forefront of the X-Zone Pet Catio’s design. Made from durable wood and featuring three spacious floors, it offers ample room for your feline friends to explore, climb, and rest. The top and bottom of the enclosure are equipped with openable small doors with secure latches, preventing escapes and ensuring easy access for cleaning.
The use of the wire mesh ensures that there is sufficient air circulation and visibility so you can observe and engage with your cats comfortably. It has a small wooden house for your cats to rest and a hammock in between, which can be exciting for them. Plus, you’ll find the assembly easy thanks to the pre-drilled screw holes and numbered parts.
Best Customizable
Eiiel Large Cat Enclosure
PHOTO CREDIT: Amazon
Why We Love
Customizable design
Ample room for one to four cats
Metal panels ensure stability
Features eight doors
Easy assembly
But…
The metal construction may not be ideal for outdoor use
Create a customized haven for your feline friend with the Eiiel Large Cat Enclosure. This playpen can be arranged in any layout and can be adapted to fit the needs and desires of your cat or multiple cats. It incorporates a multi-door system with eight doors to facilitate interaction, feeding, and cleaning with ease.
The durable metal panels and reinforced structure provide a safe and secure environment for your cat to roam, play, and relax, and the safe platforms and ramps ensure no harm to their paws. Easy to assemble with clear instructions, the cage can be disassembled for transport and storage.
Best for Yard
MAMI&BABI Catio Outdoor Cat Enclosure
PHOTO CREDIT: Amazon
Why We Love
Suitable for both indoor and outdoor environments
Made of breathable mesh
Features a steel frame
Lightweight and portable
Quick and simple assembly
Can be used as a cat house, delivery room, etc
But…
The height of the enclosure might be restrictive for some cats
The Mami&Babi Catio Outdoor Cat Enclosure is a versatile playpen designed to provide a safe and engaging environment for your pets, both indoors and outdoors. This enclosure, which consists of a large tent and a tunnel around it, will allow your cats to lounge in the sun, play with toys and treats, and even use a litter box!
The breathable mesh design ensures your indoor cats can experience fresh air without the risk of escape or injury, while the durable steel framing and solid Oxford fabric base withstand vigorous play. It also doubles as a cat house, delivery room, or nursery for kittens. In addition, the foldable structure provides convenience in setup and storage, and it can be set up in one minute.
BEST modular
PAWING DIY Catio
PHOTO CREDIT: Amazon
Why We Love
Suitable for up to three cats
Exercise-friendly
Sturdy construction
Modular panels let you reconfigure the setup
Multi-door access
Easy assembly
But…
Best suited for indoor use
Give your indoor cats the ultimate workout zone with the PAWING DIY catio. The built-in ramps and weight-tested platforms — each supporting up to 30 pounds — encourage climbing and active play. Best of all, it’s modular — so you can reshape it as your space or cat’s mood demands. No matter if you’ve got one curious kitty or a trio of playful explorers, there’s space to add scratching posts, litter boxes, food bowls, or even a small cat tree to make it feel like home.
Assembly is straightforward thanks to improved connectors, a provided rubber mallet, and load-tested panels that click into place with ease. It also has four doors (including three tall ones for humans),
and secure locking mechanisms make interaction and cleaning simple.
Best for Windows
TIMHAKA Cat Catio
PHOTO CREDIT: Amazon
Why We Love
Perfect for window use
Three mesh sides
Solid wood build
Wall-mounted stability
Spacious lounge area
Comes with pre-drilled, labeled parts
But…
Lacks multiple levels or perches for climbing or vertical play
If your indoor cat loves staring out the window, the TIMHAKA cat catio might just be their new favorite hangout. This solid wood enclosure is made to fit top and bottom sliding windows. With it, cats can safely explore the outside world without ever leaving the house. Its three-sided open design lets your cat see everything, so they can get lots of fresh air and play without worrying about their safety.
Perfect for smaller spaces, this window-mounted catio doesn’t require a yard or patio — just a compatible window frame under 37.75 inches wide. It’s strong enough for active cats up to 44 pounds thanks to the triangular brackets that hold it to the wall. It’s also easy to assemble and clean, with pre-drilled parts and a convenient open-access design.
Best with Storage
BestPet Cat Playpen Kennel
PHOTO CREDIT: Amazon
Why We Love
Built-in litter box and storage case
Can be used indoors and outdoors
Comes with a free hammock, two platforms, and two ladders
Heavy-duty construction
Large front door
Easy to clean and maintain
But…
The metal frame may not blend well with all home decor styles
The BestPet Cat Playpen Kennel makes it easy to keep your cat’s space neat and multifunctional. Designed with a built-in litter box area and a storage case, it helps you stay organized by keeping everything — extra litter, scoopers, and toys — within reach.
Beyond storage, this roomy playpen is a comfortable hangout for 1 to 3 cats, complete with a cozy hammock, metal ladders, and platforms for climbing and lounging. The sturdy metal frame is rust-resistant and built to last, while the large front doors and slide-out tray make cleanup simple. Within this well-thought-out enclosure, your cat is sure to be safe, happy, and entertained.
How We Chose the Best Catios
At CatTime, our experts curated this list of the best catios by assessing factors such as durable material, capacity, easy assembly, portability, additional features like ramps and platforms, accessibility, and ease of cleaning. They further consulted with industry professionals to gain more insight into the top-selling products, using their guidance and experience to bring our readers the very best. When you choose one of our recommended products, you can rest assured that you’re making an informed purchase from the best brands available on the market.
FAQ
Is it cheaper to build or buy a catio?
Building a catio can be cheaper if you have the skills and materials, allowing customization to your budget. However, buying a pre-made catio offers convenience, professional design, and durability, which might justify the higher cost for some pet owners.
What are the downsides of a catio?
Drawbacks of a catio include cost to buy or construct, size constraints that might not fit every house, and care and attention that need to be paid to ensure the catio is safe for cats and can last long. Additionally, some cats may take time to adjust to the enclosure.
What is the best material for catios?
The best material for catios is a combination of durable, weather-resistant materials. Wood, metal, and mesh are common choices. Wood provides a natural look but requires regular maintenance. Metal offers durability, but can be harsh on paws. Mesh allows for ventilation and visibility but may require additional support.
Do catios need a roof?
A roof is highly recommended for catios, especially in areas with inclement weather. A roof protects the cat from rain, snow, and too much sun so that your cat can be outside regardless of the season. Also, a roof will ensure that your cat is safe from any predators as well as other dangers that might be in the area.
Can you leave a cat in a catio?
Yes, you can leave a cat in a catio, but it’s essential to supervise them, especially initially. Ensure the catio is secure, provide plenty of water and shade, and monitor for signs of distress or discomfort.
Can cats sleep in a catio?
Yes, cats can sleep in catios. Many cats enjoy the outdoor environment and find it a comfortable place to rest. Provide a cozy bed or blanket within the catio to make it even more inviting. Just ensure the catio is secure and protected from extreme weather.
Will my cat get fleas in a catio?
Cats can potentially get fleas in a catio, as fleas can enter from the surrounding environment. Regularly check your cat for fleas and use preventive treatments to minimize the risk while they enjoy their outdoor space.
Should I put a litter box in the catio?
Yes, placing a litter box in the catio is a good idea, especially for extended stays. It makes the lives of your cats easier and also ensures that the outdoor area that they play in is clean and germ-free.
Do cats get sad when caged?
Cats may experience stress or anxiety when confined to a small space for extended periods. While catios are designed to be spacious and stimulating, it’s important to provide your cat with opportunities to explore and interact outside the enclosure.
