It’s a common desire for cat owners to provide their feline friends with the best of both worlds: the safety and comfort of indoor living combined with the enriching experiences of the outdoors. While letting cats roam freely outside presents numerous dangers, Inside Cat Enclosures offer a purrfect solution. These dedicated spaces allow your cats to safely enjoy fresh air, sunshine, and the stimulating sights and sounds of nature, all while remaining protected from hazards.
Originally, I understood the appeal of outdoor access for cats but worried about their safety roaming freely. Like many, my cats were indoor-only, but I knew they would thrive with a secure outdoor space. This led to the creation of a custom cat enclosure, and it’s been a game-changer for their happiness and well-being.
We decided to integrate a cat enclosure into our home during a deck renovation. Working with a contractor, we designed an enclosure that seamlessly attached to the deck and connected to the house through a secure chute accessible via a basement window. Initially, the contractor was surprised by the request, but quickly embraced the idea once we explained the benefits for our cats.
A spacious cat enclosure attached to a wooden deck, featuring multiple levels for climbing and a dog house for shelter.
Inside the enclosure, we focused on creating an enriching environment. We installed shelves at varying heights to encourage climbing, jumping, and exploration – catering to their natural feline instincts. A dog house, topped with a comfy outdoor bench cushion, became an instant favorite spot for relaxation and observation. These vertical spaces are crucial in inside cat enclosures as they maximize the usable area and provide cats with different vantage points, mimicking a more natural outdoor environment within a safe and contained setting.
Interior view of a cat enclosure showing mounted boards at different levels for cats to climb and explore.
Our enclosure spans a generous 8 feet by 16 feet, providing ample room for our cats to roam. Access is easy for humans too, thanks to a full-sized door. This size is ideal for multiple cats and allows for comfortable movement and play. When planning your own inside cat enclosure, consider the available space and the number of cats who will use it to ensure adequate room for them to comfortably enjoy their outdoor experience.
A view of the cat enclosure door, highlighting the secure access point for owners.
To give our cats independent access, we replaced the basement window with a dog door. We then built a ramp inside the basement, leading to the window, allowing the cats to come and go as they please. This integration with the house is a key element of successful inside cat enclosures, providing seamless and safe access for your feline companions.
The result? Our cats are undeniably spoiled and absolutely love their enclosure! Despite being fully enclosed with plastic chicken wire for safety, they still manage to “hunt” and present us with “gifts” like squirrels and birds – a testament to their natural instincts remaining sharp, even in a protected environment. It’s still a mystery how these small creatures find their way in, but it adds to the enrichment and stimulation for our cats.
An inside cat enjoying its enclosure, showcasing a happy and content feline in a safe outdoor environment.
Was building an inside cat enclosure worth the investment? Absolutely. Seeing our cats thrive and enjoy their outdoor space is priceless. If Bob had his way, he’d be outside in his enclosure 24/7, 365 days a year! The enclosure has a roof, so they can enjoy the outdoors even during rain, and even when there’s snow on the ground.
A cat lounging happily inside its enclosure, demonstrating the contentment and enjoyment these spaces provide.
The only minor drawbacks are the lack of grass growth inside the enclosure and the cats’ tendency to use one corner as a litter box, requiring regular cleaning. However, these are small prices to pay for their immense happiness.
Initially, visitors might find the idea of a cat enclosure a bit unusual. But, after seeing how much our cats love it and understanding the benefits, many leave wanting to build one for their own feline families. Inside cat enclosures are not just a luxury; they are a fantastic way to enhance your cat’s life, providing safety, enrichment, and a deeper connection with the natural world.
