Letting your cat roam freely outdoors might seem like a natural part of pet ownership. But in reality, the great outdoors can be a dangerous place for our feline friends, especially in Australia.
From cars and dogs to ticks and snakes, the risks of injury, mishap or worse in the “Lucky Country” are high. So, that’s why more and more cat owners are turning to safer alternatives that allow them to spend time outdoors without being exposed to these hazards.
One of the safest solutions is a cat net enclosure, which lets your furry friend enjoy fresh air and sunshine while staying protected from harm. If you are not familiar with them, this post will highlight why they’re such a great choice for your pet’s well-being. Its benefits should give you a lot of peace of mind.
What Exactly Is a Cat Net Enclosure?
A cat net enclosure is a secure outdoor space made with netting or mesh. It is sometimes called a “catio” and gives your feline access to the outdoors while keeping them safely contained.
These enclosures come in a wide range of designs. For instance, you can install one along a fence line, build a tunnel from a window to a play area, or net off an apartment balcony for vertical lounging.
The best cat net enclosures are made with UV-stabilised materials that are designed to withstand the Australian sun. They’re breathable, see-through, and safe for climbing and lounging. Some are temporary and portable, while others are built into your backyard layout. Either way, they allow your cat to explore and relax without the dangers of roaming the streets.
At present, there are a few trusted brands of catio on the market, with cat net enclosures from Somerzby being one of the most popular.
Why do we need cat enclosures?
While we might all want to give our cat the freedom to wander around the neighbourhood, in reality, doing this is fraught with risk.
Every day, dozens of roaming cats across Australia are injured or killed by cars. In addition, they can also get into fights with dogs or other cats, which might lead to infections or long-term injuries.
Moreover, diseases like FIV and parasites such as fleas and ticks are another concern, especially in warmer climates. Just as worryingly, cats that roam far from home can become lost or stolen, particularly if they’re a rare or recognisable breed.
However, it’s not just the cats that need protecting. Felines are natural hunters and can cause real harm to native birds, lizards and small mammals. Indeed, it is estimated that roaming pet cats kill 390 million native animals in Australia every year.
Benefits of Using a Cat Net Enclosure
Cat net enclosures come in many shapes and sizes. They also provide several benefits to your feline. Some of the most notable are as follows:
1. Keeps Your Cat Safe from Harm
First and foremost, cat net enclosures protect your pet from the risks of the outside world.
This means no cars, no dogs, or other aggressive animals. As a result, your cat can enjoy a slice of the outdoors while remaining protected from injury, disease, poisonous plants, and other prominent risks.
2. Allows for Natural Stimulation
All cats crave stimulation, even those who predominantly remain indoors. Thankfully, an enclosure enables them to bask in the sun, sniff the breeze, watch birds and insects, and engage their natural instincts.
This kind of sensory enrichment is essential for their well-being, especially if they live in smaller homes or apartments.
3. Prevents Boredom and Behavioural Issues
Cats who don’t get enough stimulation can become bored, anxious, or destructive. This could result in them scratching furniture, biting, constant meowing, and over-grooming – all of which are signs of frustration.
With a secure outdoor space at their disposal, they can burn off energy, relax, and be much more settled when they return inside.
4. Gives You Peace of Mind
As a cat owner, it’s hard not to worry when your pet is outside and unsupervised. Thankfully, with an enclosure, you don’t have to stress about traffic, fights, or them getting lost.
Instead, you’ll always know they’re safe and contained, even if you’re not watching them every minute.
Why It’s Better Than Letting Cats Roam Free
There’s a common belief that cats need to roam to be happy. But research and lived experience suggest otherwise. Indeed, cats can live long, healthy, and fulfilled lives without ever leaving their property, and some who are kept indoors or in enclosures often live longer than those allowed to roam.
As mentioned, roaming cats also pose a major threat to Australia’s native wildlife and can kill multiple animals each day. Therefore, by using an enclosure, you’re not only protecting your cat, but you’re protecting your local ecosystem too.
How to Set Up Your Cat Net Enclosure
You might be wondering how easy it is to set up a cat net enclosure. Well, you will be pleased to read that it can be fairly straightforward.
First, you will need to decide where your enclosure will go, for instance, the balcony, window, or garden. Then you should measure the space carefully so you can order the right size or amount of netting. When doing this, think about how your cat will access the area, as you may want to install a cat door or use a window they already enjoy.
You will also need to add elements that your cat will love, such as things to climb, scratch, and snooze on. Cats love height and variety, so platforms or shelves should go a long way.
Finally, be sure to choose durable, weather-resistant materials that won’t degrade under the Aussie sun. It would also be worth checking with your local council or strata body if there are restrictions on outdoor pet structures.
