iN PHOTOS: DIY guide to building a catio for your feline

Your cat deserves the best, and it doesn't get better than lounging on a sunny outdoor patio.

As the weather warms up and cats are anxious to get outside, the B.C. SPCA encourages pet owners to build a catio.

Not only will your feline friend be safe from predators, traffic and other threats outdoors, but if you build it big enough you can enjoy the catio too. 

If you want to build a catio, the first thing you need to consider is location. Your cat will need access to their catio, so building it on a deck or up against the house are potential options. 

Once you choose the location, pick a matching design template to follow.

The SPCA has created four templates for catios:

• Window Catio

• Enclosed Porch Catio

• Stand Alone Catio

• Catio Enrichment (to add onto pre-existing catio)

Next, you'll need to gather the building materials.

The SPCA provides the following list of supplies to build a basic catio:

• Wooden Boards for the roof and floor of the enclosure

• Deck screws

• Wire mesh

• Staple gun and staples (¾ inch or longer)

• Electric drill and drill bits

• Wire cutters (to cut mesh)

• Table saw

Lastly, accessorize the catio. Because cats love to climb, leap and balance on ledges, the SPCA suggests incorporating some ramps, stairs and ledges.

Toys are also a must, as you want to keep your cat entertained. Other items like a water dish, litter box and bed will make the space more comfortable for your feline friend. 

To contact a reporter for this story, email Brie Welton or call (250) 819-3723 or email the editor. You can also submit photos, videos or news tips to the newsroom and be entered to win a monthly prize draw.

We welcome your comments and opinions on our stories but play nice. We won't censor or delete comments unless they contain off-topic statements or links, unnecessary vulgarity, false facts, spam or obviously fake profiles. If you have any concerns about what you see in comments, email the editor in the link above.