Cat owners are becoming increasingly aware of the need to keep cats contained at all times to protect domestic cats and local wildlife. GeoCatch and the Shire of Capel are running a free, interactive DIY catio building and design workshop in Dalyellup to help you build your feline friend an affordable catio.
Cat owners will learn useful tips and tricks on how to build and design a cat enclosure, including the materials and tools required during the installation process. Dr Heather Crawford, a cat behaviouralist from Murdoch University will be on hand to help navigate what’s required to keep your cat happy in its new catio.
Dr Crawford said that cats can be content in an enclosed space if provided with the right stimulus and enrichment activities. “Cats can live happy, healthy lives in catios, provided its design provides mental and physical enrichment, such as climbing posts, plants and other activities within the enclosure,” explained Dr Crawford.
The workshop will demonstrate that catios can be built on a budget using recycled products and cat netting to enclose the side of your house. Professional catio installers will be on hand to showcase more elaborate designs, encompassing patio and garden spaces with tunnels, vertical spaces and climbing elements to keep cats enriched and entertained.
Cat owners can also access a $200 rebate to help install a catio. Following on from the success of the Geographe Bay Catchment pilot catio rebate in 2023, a second round of rebates is on offer to cat owners living within the City of Busselton, Shire of Augusta Margaret River, Shire of Capel and Shire of Donnybrook – Balingup.
GeoCatch project officer Nicole Lincoln was excited to announce the extension of the rebate program. “The rebate aims to assist cat owners with keeping cats safe and healthy on their properties while having peace of mind in knowing where their cats are at all times. Cat owners will have the confidence to allow their cats outside access while still being mindful of urban wildlife, other pets and neighbours,” said Nicole.
Responsible pet ownership is encouraged by all local governments involved in the rebate program. Shire of Capel President, Doug Kitchen, urged cat owners to take advantage of the workshop and rebate to make sure they are fulfilling their responsibility to keep cats contained.
“The Shire of Capel has many homes located in areas with surrounding natural beauty. Cats can be fantastic pets, but free roaming and wild cats can be devastating for local native wildlife. Come along and check out some designs and ideas to keep your cat entertained and safe, rather than using the local nature corridor as its own jungle gym.”
If you have considered building a catio and would like to register interest in the rebate, or to register for the workshop on Saturday 8th February 10am, visit geocatch.asn.au.
This project is delivered by GeoCatch, in partnership with Shire of Capel, with funding from the Western Australian Government’s State NRM Program.
