Cat owners gathered in large numbers to learn how to keep their cats and wildlife safe at GeoCatch’s Catio (cat enclosure) and Gardening for Wildlife Workshop last weekend at Busselton Bunnings.
An increasing number of local cat owners are opting to keep their cats contained in catios, a fully enclosed outdoor space connected to your home that allows your cat to spend time outside while keeping wildlife safe.
Dr. Heather Crawford, cat behaviouralist from Murdoch University, showed cat owners how to keep cats content in an enclosed space. “Cats can live happy, healthy lives in catios, provided its design provides mental and physical enrichment,” explained Dr. Heather Crawford.
Cat owners learned how to build a cat enclosure, including the materials and tools required, design, and installation process, by sustainability expert Chris Ferreira from the Forever Project and Eco Builder Matty Noakes.
The workshop demonstrated that catios can be built on a budget using recycled products and cat netting to enclose the side of your house. Professional catio installers were 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.
Catios also provide cat owners with the confidence and peace of mind that they are keeping their cats safe from cat fights and vehicle injuries while ensuring wildlife is safe from attack in our local area. “It’s a win–win for wildlife, cats, and pet owners,” says GeoCatch Project Officer Nicole Lincoln.
Local cat owners thinking of building a DIY catio or engaging a contractor are encouraged to use the $200 catio rebate available in the Geographe Bay Catchment. For further information on registering for the catio rebate visit geocatch.asn.au or call 0491 069 078.
This event was delivered by GeoCatch as part of the Pets Away, Possums Play campaign with support from the South West Catchments Council, through funding from the Australian Government’s National Landcare Program, in partnership with The Forever Project, Shire of Capel, City of Busselton, Katzone, Cat Runs WA, SAFE, RSPCA, Busselton Men’s Shed and FAWNA.
