Catios are life-changing for house cats, especially for cats with behavioral issues. Having built nearly 350 enclosures to date, I regularly see the positive impact catios have on fur families and their guardians. Today, I want to highlight a few builds involving cats exhibiting negative behaviors that were either fixed or significantly improved with the addition of a catio. These stories are typical.
Romeo’s Remarkable Transformation
Romeo’s story is one that resonates with many cat owners who have faced behavioral challenges. When his devoted guardian moved in with her new husband in Santa Barbara, Romeo’s world was turned upside down. The stress made Romeo pee and mark all over the house daily, ruining most of the furniture. Desperate to solve a problem impacting her marriage, Romeo’s guardian turned to a catio as a last resort.
The day Romeo was introduced to the outdoor catio was a turning point. As soon as he stepped into his newfound haven, his guardians observed a remarkable change. The peeing and marking stopped, and a sense of calm washed over Romeo. With access to the enriched environment, Romeo flourished. Today, Romeo not only enjoys the outdoor space, but he also relishes spending quality time with both guardians.
Garfield’s Journey to Health and Vitality
Garfield’s story is one of transformation from an obese, sluggish cat to a vibrant and active furball. Worried about diabetes and other adverse health consequences, Garfield’s veterinarian recommended a diet change and exercise. That’s when his guardian contacted me about building Garfield and his feline siblings a giant outdoor playground.
The effects were nothing short of astounding. With exercise, Garfield shed excess weight, gained newfound energy, and played more with the other house cats. The 10-foot climbing pole, other climbing structures, and interactive elements rejuvenated the furball’s spirit and rekindled his zest for life. The massive cat Disneyland transformed not only Garfield’s physique but also his overall well-being.
Simba and Nala: From Strife to Harmony
The tale of Simba and Nala showcases how catios can bridge gaps and mend relationships in multi-cat households. Simba, a large, handsome Maine Coon, had an ongoing feud with a petite tabby named Nala. His tendency to ambush and pounce on Nala created a tense atmosphere within the home. After trying Feliway, and working with a cat behaviorist, the guardians hired me to build a sleek catio in the backyard of their modern home.
The introduction of the enclosure changed the dynamics drastically. The outdoor space provided Simba with an outlet for his energy, and the sights and sounds of the natural world soothed his disposition. With more mental and physical stimulation, Simba’s aggression towards Nala diminished significantly. The catio also offered a neutral ground where both cats could hang out together without incident. Simba and Nala may never have the close relationship of their namesake in The Lion King, but with the catio they can live happily ever after.
The Universal Benefits of Catios
While individual experiences with catios vary, the common thread is the positive impact outdoor enclosures have on feline behavior and well-being. Catios allow cats to fulfill their instinctual desires for exploration, hunting, and basking in the sun. The fresh air, the sight of birds, squirrels, wildlife, bugs, and the natural sounds all contribute to a more fulfilled life.
Catios foster harmony, health, and happiness. These stories of success underscore the vital role that catios play in addressing behavioral challenges and enriching the lives of our feline friends. I witness it every day.