Catio 3: Paws & Recreation
WHAT TO LOOK FOR: Expansive Design | Covered Patio | Cat, Dog & Human Use | Contractor-Built
SPECIAL DISPLAY: Bird Alliance of Oregon
ACCESSIBILITY INFO: Flat. All grass with no pavement.
ABOUT THE CATIO:
Year Built: 2026
Materials Used: Douglas fir, 2”x2” metal welded wire, and clear top roofing.
Dimensions: 23’ x 18’ x 12’
Features: This spacious catio is designed for the whole household, with plenty of room for cats and humans to enjoy it together. The cats have climbing steps built along a wooden beam, a lounging shelf, and a “cat barn” rooftop perch with a front-row view of birds in the nearby trees. The space also includes a hot tub, a section of artificial grass, and a dedicated litter box area, making it a true multi-purpose retreat. The dogs are welcome too, turning this into a shared outdoor hangout for the entire four-legged family.
Reasons to visit: This spacious, multi-purpose catio is more than an outdoor enclosure. Cats, dogs, and humans can all enjoy the space, which features a hot tub, turf grass, covered litter boxes, climbing areas, lounging shelves, and a rooftop “cat barn” perch. With a covered deck and easy access from the bedroom, it offers the cats a front-row seat to the sights and sounds of nature in every season.
How many cats use the catio? Three: Earl Grey, Sebastian, and Leia.
Who designed/built it? Contractor built.
What inspired the design of the catio? What started with a need evolved into a dream. After moving from California, they wanted to maximize outdoor access year-round for both their humans and pets. Their cats love soaking up the sunshine and watching birds, while their dogs benefit from having access to an outdoor potty area. Their Siamese and Ragdoll were both formerly strays who landed on their doorstep in Southern California, and their previous home featured a tall, fenced catio that provided safe outdoor access.
The contractor designed the catio to work with the home’s existing structures while maximizing the available space. He also considered the home’s future resale potential, designing the structure so it could easily be converted into a standard covered deck. The result gives the cats a safe way to enjoy the outdoors while still feeling connected to nature, with views of the surrounding yard and trees.
Why was this location chosen? They chose this location for its privacy and its convenient connection to the backyard, giving the cats a secluded retreat with easy access to the rest of the outdoor space.
How do the cats enter the catio? The cats access the catio directly from the bedroom through a dog door, giving them easy, convenient access to their outdoor space.
What are the cats’ favorite features? The cats love sunning themselves on the deck, lounging on the top shelf, and relaxing in their cat tree. They also appreciate having covered outdoor litter boxes surrounded by nature.
Did the Hosts notice any behavioral changes in the cats after adding the catio? As former strays, they were thrilled to be outside again, enjoying the sounds of birds and the sights of the natural world. The covered deck gives them year-round access to the outdoors, rain or shine.
What advice would you give to someone looking to build a catio? They encourage others to do it and give their cats the best life possible.
Is there anything the Hosts would have done differently? They would like to add a fountain or other water feature to the catio in the future.
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!