Catio 1: Ember’s Den
WHAT TO LOOK FOR: Efficient Design | Attached with Catwalk | Cat Use | DIY Built
SPECIAL DISPLAY: Portland Urban Coyote Project
ACCESSIBILITY INFO: Flat paved driveway. Some grass and a gravel pathway to access backyard.
ABOUT THE CATIO:
Year Built: 2025
Materials Used: Pressure-treated 2" x 4"s and 2" x 2"s, clear polycarbonate roofing, 1" x 1" black PVC coated fence wire, wood stain, rope for scratching posts, hardware for hatches, T-post fence clips, staples, zip ties.
Dimensions: Main structure: 6' x 4.5' x 8', bridge: 6' x 1' x 2.5', maze patio area: 6' x 2' x 3'
Features: Ember’s Den, named in memory of one of their kitties, begins with a cat door that leads into a maze of twists and turns at patio level. The creative pathway works around the home’s existing egress while giving the cats an enriching route to the main catio. A short staircase leads to an elevated wooden bridge and the three-level catio, with plenty of places to climb, lounge, and play. Features include a warm “sauna” corner with sun-warmed stones, a hammock, tiny hideaway house, wall stairs, four corner platforms, tree branches, and a 6-foot scratching post that reaches the top level. Clear polycarbonate roofing keeps the cats dry while letting them enjoy the outdoors in any weather, and solar-powered string lights make the space inviting for evening hangouts.
Reasons to visit: Explore a catio designed with four very different cats in mind. Visitors can follow the maze and elevated bridge to a three-level playground packed with unique features, including a “sauna,” hammock, hideaway house, sun-warmed pavers, climbing branches, and a 6’ scratching post. The covered design and solar lights make it an all-weather space that is just as enjoyable for the humans as it is for the cats.
How many cats use the catio? Four: Moonie, Lisbeth, Noodle, and Fern.
Who designed/built it? DIY, but with previous construction experience.
What inspired the design of the catio? The design grew from an existing cat door and stairway that two of their older cats already used for outdoor access, making the transition from free roaming to catio time easier. They wanted a space large enough for all four cats to enjoy together, with both vertical and horizontal areas for climbing, chasing, and lounging. The twisting, turning catwalk and bridge began as practical solutions for the space but evolved into a creative, cat-focused design. The main structure is also large enough for the humans to join the cats inside.
Why was this location chosen? They chose the location for its abundant sunlight, nearby trees, proximity to the existing cat door, and views of the backyard. Its location beside the patio also allows them to spend time with the cats while they enjoy the outdoors.
How do the cats enter the catio? The cats enter the catio by exiting the house at a cat door that was there prior to building the catio. There is an enclosed pathway that leads to a staircase and up to a bridge that the cats cross to enter the main structure.
What are the cats’ favorite features? All four cats love sun napping on the bridge. Moonie has created a den inside the mini house box and relaxes in the hammock. Lisbeth enjoys guarding the catio as a solo escape from the top of the staircase. Noodle’s favorite spot is the “sauna” corner. Fern loves to spring around to all the high places and settles down on the sun-warmed paver stones for a nap.
Did the Hosts notice any behavioral changes in the cats after adding the catio? All four cats love the catio and have made it part of their daily routine. Each morning, one or more rush outside as soon as the door opens. The cats who previously had limited outdoor access seem noticeably happier, and the catio’s secure design allows the door to remain open even when their humans are away. It also gives the cats an additional space to retreat and enjoy some alone time.
What advice would you give to someone looking to build a catio? They highly recommend doing it. Although it was a big project, both the cats and humans are happier because of it. They suggest designing around the cats’ individual interests and needs, working with the available space, and getting creative rather than relying on a kit.
Is there anything the Hosts would have done differently? They would invest in a miter saw from the start, as using a circular saw required extra time and precision. They also recommend making greater use of vertical space rather than creating multiple crossing paths. Zip ties proved more secure and effective than staples for attaching the fencing. Finally, they would widen the bridge or add a turnout area to prevent feline traffic jams.
The 14th Annual Catio Tour - September 12, 2026
Hosted by Feral Cat Coalition of Oregon and Bird Alliance of Oregon
Presented by Catio Craftsman
The Catio Tour is part of the Cats Safe at Home™ campaign, which seeks to reduce the number of cats living outdoors in the Portland metropolitan area in a humane and environmentally responsible manner. We believe that every cat deserves a safe home where they are loved, cared for, and kept free from hazards. The Catio Tour was created to offer inspiration for those looking for ways for their cats to have safe outdoor time. We hope you enjoy this year’s Catio Tour!