Building an outdoor enclosure for your cats can provide them with a safe, stimulating space to enjoy the fresh air and sunshine. An enclosure allows your cats to experience the outdoors while keeping them secure and preventing them from roaming free or getting lost. With some planning and DIY skills, you can create a customized cat enclosure suitable for your space, budget and your cats’ needs. This comprehensive guide provides tips and instructions for constructing a high-quality outdoor cat enclosure from start to finish.
Planning Your Outdoor Cat Enclosure
When embarking on an outdoor enclosure project, careful planning is key to creating a structure your cats will enjoy for years to come. Here are some important factors to consider during the planning process:
Location
Choose a flat area of your yard that gets plenty of shade, especially midday when the sun is hottest. Opt for a spot with natural barriers like fences or hedges to limit visibility from the street. Avoid placing the enclosure next to loud equipment like air conditioning units.
Size
Bigger is usually better when it comes to cat enclosures! Aim for at least 16 square feet of roaming space per cat. Taller ceilings give them room to climb and jump.
Layout
Include multiple levels like ramps, platforms and catwalks to add vertical space. Incorporate hiding spots and cozy nooks so shy cats can retreat. Having separate lounging and elimination areas helps keep things clean.
Materials
Use safe, durable materials that won’t easily break or decay. Powder-coated steel and aluminum frames prevent rust. Hardware cloth, aviary mesh and shade cloth are good fencing options. Avoid chicken wire as claws can get stuck.
Accessories
Add amenities like scratching posts, hammocks, litterboxes and toys to keep your cats active and entertained. Consider weatherproof cat houses or cubbies for shelter.
Budget
Factor in costs for materials, tools and labor if hiring a contractor. Basic DIY models can cost $500+ for a large enclosure. More complex designs with higher-end materials can cost $2000+.
Designing Your Cat Enclosure Layout
Once you have a suitable outdoor spot selected, it’s time to design the layout. Visit our cat enclosure plans and designs page for inspirational photos of DIY enclosures. When designing your layout, consider including the following elements:
Multiple Levels
Incorporate ramps, platforms and catwalks at different heights to add vertical space. Shelves mounted on walls create cozy perches. Freestanding cat trees work too.
Separation of Spaces
Having distinct lounging, feeding, elimination and play zones helps minimize odor and prevent litter from spreading throughout the enclosure.
Litter Box Area
This high-traffic area should be easy to access and clean. Provide 1 litter box per cat plus 1 extra, on an impermeable surface like concrete or linoleum.
Scratching Posts
Include sturdy posts wrapped in sisal rope or natural wood for claw conditioning. Place near resting areas so cats can stretch and scratch.
Enrichment
Tunnels, treat puzzles, dangling toys and moving prey like balls or motorized mice give cats physical and mental exercise.
Cozy Hideaways
Boxes, tents, cat caves and enclosed cat houses or cubbies provide security and shade when they need alone time.
Walkways and Bridges
Interconnected ramps, tunnels and catwalks let your cats explore every nook and cranny while avoiding dead ends.
Constructing the Enclosure Frame
The frame establishes the fundamental size, shape and height of your cat enclosure. Pressure treated lumber or powder-coated steel/aluminum are suitable framing materials. Here are the basic steps for assembling the frame:
Map Out the Shape
Using stakes and string, map out the shape and perimeter size. For square/rectangular designs, construct a simple box frame. For organic shapes, bend flexible garden fencing.
Set Support Posts
Dig holes and anchor vertical 4×4 posts into the ground with concrete. Space support posts 4-6 feet apart around the perimeter.
Attach Horizontal Framing
Using corner brackets or screws, attach 2×4 or 2×6 boards horizontally between the posts. Create door frames as needed.
Add Cross Bracing
Install diagonal cross braces at each corner and every few feet along straight sections for lateral strength and stability.
Elevate Off the Ground
Raise the frame 3-12 inches off the ground on concrete piers or pt lumber to prevent rotting and keep pets cleaner.
Level the Frame
Use a 4 foot level and shims to ensure the frame is perfectly level. This prevents structural issues down the line.
Choosing Appropriate Fencing Material
The fencing is what encloses the enclosure space and keeps your cats safely contained. Be sure to select pet-safe, climb-resistant fencing designed for outdoor use:
Hardware Cloth
Galvanized steel wire with 1⁄2 inch openings. Sturdy and secure but very rigid. Must be attached to framing.
Chicken Wire
Galvanized steel wire with 1 inch openings. More flexible than hardware cloth but can snag claws.
Aviary or Pet Mesh
Vinyl coated steel wire with 1⁄2 – 1 inch openings. Softer on paws but still quite sturdy.
Shade Cloth
Breathable polyethylene fabric that blocks 30-90% of sunlight. Available in varied transparency.
Welded Wire
Rigid panel fencing of steel wire with 2”x3” openings. Provides privacy with some visibility.
Lattice
Crisscrossed wood strips spaced 2-4 inches apart. Offers a natural look with airflow.
Completing the Exterior Structure
Once the frame is built and fencing chosen, it’s time to enclose the space. Follow these tips for cleanly installing the exterior fencing:
Cut Fencing to Fit
Measure between framing posts and cut fencing material to size using wire cutters. Leave 1-2 inches extra length.
Fasten Securely to Frame
Use zip ties, metal clamps or galvanized staples to firmly fasten fencing to frame posts and cross bracing.
Cover Raw Wood Edges
Wrap any exposed cut wood edges in aluminum or galvanized sheet metal to prevent chewing and rotting.
Add a Roof Layer
For sun protection, staple a second top layer of shade cloth 1-2 feet above the main fencing.
Hang Privacy Panels
To block street views, suspend removable lattice or shade cloth panels using hooks and grommets.
Install the Door
Attach a full-size steel door using hinges for easy human access. Add a cat door for pet access.
Dig Barrier Fencing
Bury hardware cloth 6-12 inches below ground around the perimeter to prevent digging escapees.
Adding Fun Amenities and Accessories
Now for the fun part – decking out your cat enclosure with enriching amenities to keep your pets active and entertained! Shop pet stores, craft stores and online retailers for accessories.
Litter Boxes
Provide 1 more box than you have cats, with lower sides for aging pets. Use pine pellets or recycled paper litter.
Lounging Hammocks
Hang weatherproof hammocks at various heights for relaxing. Cats love dangling near the top of their space.
Natural Scratching Posts
Look for posts at least 3 feet tall wrapped in sisal, hemp or natural wood. Rough surfaces are ideal for scratching.
Shelves and Perches
Mount shelves and covered perches on walls for extra lounging. Place near low windows that let them survey outside.
Tunnels and Tents
Interconnect tunnels and hideaway tents so cats can dart between them for exercise and adventure.
Food and Water Bowls
Use heavy, tip-proof bowls. Place water in the shade to prevent algae. Separate food away from litter boxes.
Cat Trees and Towers
Multi-level trees with perches and scratching posts encourage climbing, scratching and bird watching from up high.
Maintaining Your Cat Enclosure
With your new outdoor cat enclosure complete, be sure to perform regular maintenance to keep it clean and hazard-free:
- Remove feces, old food and soiled litter daily
- Fully change out litter 2-3 times per week
- Check for and repair any damage or holes
- Pressure wash surfaces to control odors and germs
- Trim back nearby plants to avoid poisonous growth
- Check fencing for rust and hardware for integrity
- Keep rain gutters clean and roof watertight
- Watch for fallen items like sticks or debris
- Ensure latches and locks are secure
- Monitor for pest infestations like insects or rodents
With vigilant care and cleaning, your outdoor cat enclosure can remain a safe, sanitary space for cats to enjoy for years on end! Reach out to a veterinarian if you ever have concerns about your pets’ health while using their outdoor space.
FAQs About Building Outdoor Cat Enclosures
How much does it cost to build an outdoor enclosure for cats?
For basic DIY enclosures using cost-effective materials like wood and chicken wire, expect to spend $500-800 depending on the size. More complex designs with premium materials can cost $1500-4000 and may require hiring a professional.
How big should a cat enclosure be?
Aim for at least 16 square feet of interior space per cat – bigger is better. Ceilings over 6 feet tall allow for climbing. Add extra space if cats will lounge, eat and eliminate all in one area.
What is the best material for a cat enclosure?
Steel hardware cloth, aviary mesh, welded wire panels or lattice are ideal as they are climb-resistant, durable and keep cats contained safely. Chicken wire can snag claws.
How many litter boxes should be in a cat enclosure?
Provide at least one litter box per cat, plus one extra box in case a picky cat refuses to share. Use pans with lower sides for easy entry and pine or paper litter.
What can I put in my outdoor cat enclosure for enrichment?
Tunnels, scratching posts, cat trees, treat puzzles, motorized toys, dangling items at different heights, cubbies to hide in, and window perches create an engaging environment.
How do I make an outdoor enclosure safe for cats?
Use pet-proof fencing, brace and anchor it firmly, bury barriers underground to prevent escape tunnels, check for holes, remove hazards like plants and debris, install a roof, and place water in the shade.
Should I cover my outdoor cat enclosure?
A covered enclosure offers weather and sunlight protection. A roof of shade cloth or corrugated plastic lets air flow. You can also use removable tarps to cover just part of the space.
How do I keep my outdoor enclosure warm in winter?
Add insulated cat houses, use an outdoor-rated space heater on dry days only, position houses out of the wind, add extra straw bedding, cover part of the enclosure, and bring pets indoors when very cold.
Can cats be outside in an enclosure at night?
It’s ideal to bring cats indoors overnight, but if they must stay outside, ensure the enclosure is predator-proof, temperature controlled and kept lit with solar path lights. Provide houses for shelter.
Conclusion
Building an outdoor haven for cats may require an investment of time, money and effort, but the payoff is immense. The exercise, fresh air, sunshine and enrichment an enclosure provides can dramatically improve your cats’ health and happiness. By following the tips in this guide during planning, construction and maintenance, you can create a customized cat enclosure your pets will adore for years to come. Be sure to monitor your cats closely during the transition period as they get used to their new outdoor space. With patience and care, an outdoor cat enclosure can be a wonderful addition to both your home and your cats’ lives!