When it comes to building a catio—an outdoor cat enclosure designed to keep your feline safe while giving them a taste of nature—one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right materials. The materials you select will impact not just the durability and aesthetics of your catio, but also how safe, secure, and enjoyable it is for your cat.
Let’s break down the main options for the frame, walls, and roof of a catio and help you decide what works best for your needs.
Frame Materials: Metal vs Wood vs Plastic
Wood
Wood is a classic and popular material for catio frames. It’s relatively easy to work with, widely available, and offers a natural, attractive look that blends well with garden landscapes. Cedar and redwood are particularly popular choices because they are naturally resistant to rot and pests. However, wood does require regular maintenance like sealing or painting to prevent weather damage. Over time, it may warp or crack, especially in climates with extreme temperatures or high humidity.
Metal
Metal frames—typically aluminum or galvanized steel—offer high durability with low maintenance. They’re resistant to pests, rot, and weather, and are ideal for those wanting a long-lasting, secure structure. Metal also offers a modern look and can be great for larger or more permanent catios. However, it’s less forgiving when it comes to customization or DIY builds, and metal can get hot in direct sun, so proper shading is important.
Plastic (PVC)
PVC or composite materials can be lightweight, easy to clean, and resistant to moisture. They’re typically lower in cost and easy to assemble, making them a good choice for temporary or small catios. However, they aren’t as strong as wood or metal and can become brittle with prolonged sun exposure. Plastic frames are best suited for smaller enclosures or indoor-outdoor hybrids rather than large or fully exposed setups.
Bottom Line
- Go with wood for a warm, natural aesthetic and easy customization.
- Choose metal for durability and minimal maintenance.
- Consider plastic for lightweight, budget-friendly, or semi-permanent options.
Wall Sides: Wire Mesh vs Plastic Netting
Wire Mesh
Galvanized wire mesh is the gold standard for catio walls. It’s strong, chew-proof, weather-resistant, and keeps your cat safe from predators (and keeps wildlife out). You can find it in different gauges and grid sizes, depending on how secure you need it to be. It’s also ideal for climbing and gives cats a good view of their surroundings.
Plastic Netting
Plastic netting is more flexible and easier to work with, but it’s also less durable. Some UV-resistant nettings can work for temporary or less-exposed enclosures, but many cats can chew through them or tear them with claws. It also offers less security against raccoons, birds of prey, or other wildlife.
Bottom Line
- Wire mesh is your best bet for safety and longevity.
- Plastic netting may work for supervised use or in secure backyards but isn’t ideal for unsupervised time or large catios.
Roofing: Open, Netting, or Solid Roof
Open Roof
An open-top catio gives cats maximum sky views and airflow, and it works well if you have a fully fenced or screened-in yard. But it comes with obvious risks: cats might escape if the walls aren’t high enough, and it offers no protection from rain, sun, or predators.
Netting Roof
Using wire or netting for the roof can prevent escapes and keep out birds or larger animals, while still allowing light and airflow. It’s a good compromise between safety and openness, but it won’t protect against the elements.
Solid (Corrugated Plastic or Polycarbonate)
A solid roof offers the best weather protection, shielding your cats from rain, snow, and strong sun. Corrugated plastic or polycarbonate panels are lightweight, waterproof, and let in natural light. They’re great for year-round catios and can extend the time your cat wants to be outside. The downside is they may block some views and can heat up in summer unless ventilated properly.
Bottom Line
- Use a solid roof for all-weather protection.
- A netting roof is a good middle-ground for airflow and security.
- Only choose an open roof if your catio is in an already safe, enclosed area.
Final Thoughts
The right combination of materials depends on your budget, location, and the level of safety and comfort you want for your cat. A cedar wood frame with galvanized wire mesh walls and a polycarbonate roof might be the perfect all-weather setup, while a plastic frame with netting might be ideal for a lightweight, temporary catio on a balcony.
Ultimately, the best material choice is one that fits your lifestyle and keeps your cat happy, secure, and safe from harm—while giving them the joy of the great outdoors.