Cat owners across the Geographe catchment are being encouraged to create safe and stimulating outdoor spaces for their feline companions, with a new catio rebate now available following the success of the GeoCatch catio rebate program over recent years.
The rebate program offers $300 towards the construction of a new catio, helping residents keep their cats safely contained at home while reducing predation risk to wildlife from roaming domestic cats.
Catios can be as simple or as elaborate as owners choose. Budget-friendly options can be built DIY or with the help of a professional catio installer, using recycled materials and cat netting to safely enclose an existing patio, verandah or the side of a house.
Enclosures can incorporate garden spaces along with tunnels, climbing structures and vertical features to keep cats active and entertained.
GeoCatch Project Officer, Kim Loveridge said catios provide significant benefits for both pets and local wildlife.
“Catios are a fantastic way to give cats safe access to the outdoors while keeping them protected from hazards such as traffic, disease and fights with other animals,” Ms Loveridge said.
“At the same time, catios help protect our native wildlife by reducing opportunities for cats to hunt birds, reptiles and small mammals. They’re a practical solution that benefits both cat owners and the environment.”
The rebate program has had strong community interest since its inception in 2023, demonstrating that many residents are keen to find responsible ways for their pets to enjoy the outdoors while supporting local biodiversity.
For more information about eligibility criteria and how to apply for the catio rebate, visit https://geocatch.asn.au/project/catios/ or call GeoCatch on 0491 069 078.
This project is supported by funding from the Western Australian Government’s State NRM Program.
