Oh My Catio manages 2 data types including quote requests. Helps you organize, track, and share your work in 1 place for teams and solo users.

What exactly is a catio?

A catio is a safe outdoor room made just for cats. It has walls and a roof made of strong mesh or bars so your cat can feel the breeze, watch birds, and sit in the sun, but they cannot run away or get hurt. Think of it like a little screened-in porch built for your cat.

Does my indoor cat really need outdoor time?

Yes. Cats are born to climb, sniff, watch, and explore. Inside-only cats often get bored, lazy, or stressed, which can lead to weight gain, meowing, or scratching the furniture. A catio gives your cat a safe way to do all the things cats love to do, every single day.

Is letting my cat roam free really that bad?

Free roaming is the number one reason cats get hurt or go missing. Outdoor cats face cars, dogs, wild animals, traps, poisons, and people who are not kind to cats. A cat that roams free also hunts songbirds. A catio gives your cat the outdoor fun without any of that danger.

Will my cat actually use a catio?

Almost every cat does. Some cats walk right in and act like they have lived there forever. A shy cat may take a few days. We build in things cats love, like shelves to climb on and sunny spots to nap. Once your cat learns the door, they will ask to go out all the time.

Is it mean to keep my cat in an enclosure?

Not at all. A catio is not a tiny cage. It is a big, fun outdoor room made for climbing, napping, and playing. It is much kinder than letting a cat risk being hit by a car. Cats feel safe in spaces that are their own, and a catio becomes their favorite spot in the house.

My cat is happy indoors and never tries to go out. Do I still need one?

Many cats never try the door until the day they do. A catio gives them a safe way to enjoy outside whenever that day comes. It also adds fun and exercise to their life, which keeps them healthy as they get older.

I thought cats do not like being closed in. Is that true?

Cats actually love small, cozy, safe spaces. That is why they hide in boxes and under beds. A catio feels like a big cozy room that is theirs. Most cats relax and nap more once they have one.

Will it work for more than one cat?

Yes. We love building for multi-cat homes. We add extra levels, more shelves, and wider spaces so every cat has a spot. Even cats that do not always get along do well when there is room to spread out and pick their own perch.

My cat is older or has health issues. Can they still use it?

Yes. We can add low ramps, gentle steps, and easy-to-reach shelves instead of big jumps. Senior cats love a sunny spot to nap and watch the world. Being outside gently is good for older joints and mood.

What about a kitten or a very active cat?

Kittens and high-energy cats benefit the most. A catio lets them climb, jump, and burn off energy in a safe place. This means less zooming around your house at night and less scratching of your furniture.

How do my cats get in and out of the catio?

Usually through a cat door in a window, a wall, or a screen door. Your cats choose when to go out and come back in. They do not need you to open a door every time.

Will the catio smell or attract bugs?

No. With good airflow and a clean design, there is no smell. We can add a built-in litter area that is easy to clean and keeps mess outside your home. Bugs are not a problem because there is no food left out.

Can my cat get stolen or bothered by other animals?

No. The strong mesh keeps other animals out and keeps your cat safe inside. The door is only on your side of the home, so no one else can reach your cat.

Can you attach it to my window, deck, patio, or yard?

Yes to all of them. We build catios that fit onto a window, sit on a deck or patio, connect to a fence, or stand alone in the yard. We look at your space and tell you the best option.

I live in an apartment or a rental. Can I still get one?

Window catios are made for this. They sit in your window like an air conditioner and do not change the building. Some landlords say yes once they see how clean it looks. We can talk through options that do not require drilling holes.

I have a homeowners association (HOA). Will they allow it?

Many do, especially for smaller catios and ones that match your home. We design to blend in with your house color and style so it looks tidy. We can give you photos and details to show your HOA. Often it is easier than people think.

Will it make my house look bad?

No. That is the whole point of what we do. We build catios that look like they belong on your home, not like a cage bolted to the side. We use real cedar wood and finishes that match your house. Many people think they add charm and value.

My yard is small or has an odd shape. Can it still work?

Yes. Every build is custom. We have fit catios into tiny side yards, on small decks, and around corners. If you have a few feet of space, we can usually make something your cat will love.

Do I need to own my home, or can a renter get one too?

Renters can get one too. A window catio often needs no permanent changes. For bigger builds, we suggest asking your landlord. We can design something that is easy to take with you when you move.

Can it add value to my home?

Yes. A well-built catio is a real outdoor feature. Buyers with pets see it as a bonus. It looks like a custom outdoor room, not a pet cage. Many of our clients get compliments from neighbors.

Can you match my house and style?

Yes. We pick wood, colors, and shapes that go with your home. We want it to look like it was meant to be there. You can choose the wood finish, the roof style, and the trim to match.

What kinds of roofs do you offer?

We offer open mesh roofs, clear roofs that keep rain out but let light in, metal roofs, and shingled roofs that match your house. We help you pick based on your weather and your cat.

What fun things can go inside?

Lots. We can add climbing shelves, ramps, bridges, a hammock, a hideaway box, a scratching post, a peek-out bubble window, driftwood branches, and more. You pick what fits your cat.

Can you add extras like a name sign or a feeding station?

Yes. We can make a custom name plaque for your cats, a built-in feeding and water spot, cat-safe planters, solar lights for the evening, and even a security camera so you can watch them from your phone.

Can it connect two spaces, like a window and a yard?

Yes. We can build tunnels or runs that connect a window to a bigger yard catio. This lets your cat travel safely from inside to a larger outdoor play area.

How big should it be?

It depends on your cat and your space. A small window catio gives one cat a sunny spot. A bigger build lets them run and climb. We help you pick a size that fits your home and your budget. Most cats are happy even with a modest size, as long as there is something to climb on.

How much does a catio cost?

Our Nook starts at $1,995 installed. Our most popular model, the Classic, starts at $3,295 installed. The Retreat starts at $4,495 installed. The Courtyard starts at $5,695 installed. A fully custom Signature project starts at $5,995. You can also buy DIY plans or a pre-cut kit for any standard model. The final price depends on site conditions, finish, roof, and the extras you pick. See our pricing page for more detail.

Why does a catio cost what it costs?

Because it is a real, custom-built outdoor structure. We use strong cedar wood, heavy-duty mesh, and hardware that lasts for years. It is built to handle snow, wind, and sun. A cheap catio falls apart in one season. Ours is made to last and to look good doing it.

Is it worth the money?

Most owners say yes. Think about vet bills you avoid when your cat is not hit by a car or in a fight. Think about years of your cat being happier and calmer. A catio is a one-time cost for many years of daily joy for your cat.

Can I start small and add on later?

Yes. Many people start with a Classic and add shelves or a bigger roof over time. We design with room to grow so you are never stuck.

Is getting a quote free?

Yes. Using the estimator and getting a quote costs nothing and there is no obligation. You find out the price before you decide anything.

Do you offer payment plans?

We are happy to talk about payment options when we send your quote. Just ask and we will work with you.

How do I get a quote?

Use our estimator on this site. Pick your model, size, and extras. Upload a few photos of your space. We look at everything and send you a personal quote. It is free and easy.

What happens after I ask for a quote?

We review your details and photos, then reach out within one to two business days. We talk about any changes, answer your questions, and set up a visit if needed. Then we start the build.

How long does it take from quote to finished catio?

Usually two to four weeks. The build itself often takes one to three days, depending on size. We tell you the exact timeline with your quote.

Do I need to measure my space myself?

Only rough measurements, if you have them. Photos work great to start. We take exact measurements before we build, so you do not have to worry.

Do I need to be home for the install?

Usually yes for the first part, so we can check access and answer questions. For most of the build you do not need to be there. We keep you updated as we go.

Do you clean up after the build?

Yes. We leave your space tidy. We take away scraps and materials. Your cat can start exploring as soon as we are done.

What materials do you use?

We mostly use premium cedar wood because it is beautiful and stands up to weather. Our mesh is strong and escape-proof. Our finishes are non-toxic and safe for cats. We use roofing that does not fade in the sun.

Will it survive Minnesota winters?

Yes. We build for cold, snow, ice, and wind. Our cedar handles freezing and thawing. Our roofs hold snow load. Many of our cats use their catios all winter long, sitting in the sun even on cold days.

What about summer heat and storms?

We add shade with roofs and screens so your cat does not get too hot. Our structures are built to handle strong winds and heavy rain. You can always close the cat door on the worst days.

Will the wood rot or the mesh rust?

Not for a long time. Cedar naturally resists rot and bugs. Our hardware is made to resist rust. With basic care, your catio lasts for many years.

Are the materials safe for my cat to touch and chew?

Yes. We use non-toxic finishes and pet-safe mesh. There are no sharp edges or gaps where a paw could get stuck. Your cat can rub on, climb on, and chew on the wood safely.

Can my cat escape from a catio?

No. The mesh is strong and the doors close securely. We design every opening so a cat cannot push through or squeeze out. Your cat stays safely inside.

Can other animals get in?

No. The strong mesh keeps dogs, raccoons, and other animals out. Your cat can watch the world from a safe spot without any worry.

Will my cat get fleas or ticks in a catio?

It is much less likely than free roaming. Because your cat is not in the grass and bushes, they are far less exposed to fleas and ticks. Regular flea protection keeps them safe just like indoors.

Is it good for my cat's health?

Yes. More movement keeps cats at a healthy weight. Sunlight and fresh air improve mood. Watching birds and bugs gives their brain a workout. Many cats sleep better and scratch the furniture less after they get a catio.

Can my cat get sunburned or overheated?

We add shade and airflow so this is not a problem. On very hot days, your cat can choose to come inside. We design so there is always a cool, shady spot.

How do I clean a catio?

It is easy. Sweep out leaves now and then, wipe down shelves, and clean the litter spot if you have one. Wood can be wiped with a damp cloth. A few minutes a week is usually all it takes.

Do I need to treat or stain the wood?

It is up to you. Cedar looks great even as it ages. If you want to keep the fresh color, you can stain it every couple of years. We can do this for you too.

Your Questions, Answered

What a Catio Is and Why Cats Need One

Your Cat and How They Will Use It

Will It Work for My Home

Design and Making It Yours

Cost and Payment

How the Process Works

Materials and Minnesota Weather

Safety and Health

Care and Maintenance

Common Worries and Myths