Do you have wandering cats that crave the outdoors but face dangers from traffic and other risks? Building a cat enclosure might be the solution you need.
In this article, we'll walk you through our own journey of constructing the "biggest cat house around," providing safety and contentment for over a dozen cats with strong personalities.
From selecting the perfect location to adjusting our plans on the fly, we'll share insights, challenges, and the ultimate joy of knowing our beloved cats are safe. Join us as we unveil how to give your cats the outdoor experience they love, without the dangers they don't need.
The Decision to Build: Prioritizing Safety
Living with wild cats can be rewarding but also presents challenges, especially when the cats have a natural inclination to wander. In our rural area, this wasn't a problem for a while. The cats were happy indoors and outdoors. However, as more people moved in and roads expanded, the risks to their safety grew.
The desire for our cats to enjoy the outdoors was strong, but their safety had to come first. After serious discussions with my husband, Mike, and some sobering glances at recent vet bills, we knew what we had to do. Building a cat enclosure became not just an option, but a necessity for their well-being and our peace of mind.
Without formal blueprints, we relied on our combined knowledge from living with these delightful creatures for over nineteen years. Our heads were full of ideas, and we were ready to make them a reality. The commitment to build "the biggest cat house around" was firm, and we were prepared to create a space that would keep our cats both happy and safe.
SIGN UP FOR THECATSITE'S EMAIL UPDATES >
Ready, Set, Go: Choosing the Perfect Spot
Finding the Right Location
The journey began with finding the right spot. We needed protection from the high winds that sweep off the mountains. Shade was essential for the cats, even with a planned roof.
We found that perfect place on the west side of the house. A huge, centuries-old pine tree stood there, offering additional shade.
Marking the Territory
Next, we marked off the area. Eighteen feet wide and thirty-six feet long seemed just right. With over a dozen cats in the house, comfort was crucial. Some of these cats had strong Alpha tendencies, so space was vital to avoid any disputes.
My husband called it "the biggest cat house around." We were excited and ready.
A Home for Our Cats
The plan was set, and we were ready to build. Our beloved cats would soon have a safe and comfortable outdoor space to call their own. We knew the task was big, but our determination was bigger.
The time had come to create a home that would cater to their needs while keeping them safe. Our adventure in building a cat enclosure had truly begun.
When Action Speaks Louder: Building a Safe Haven
The Construction Journey
Building the cat enclosure wasn't easy. Our plans kept changing as we learned what our cats needed. Comfort was key for both the barn cats and the indoor/outdoor ones. We committed to the task, determined to get it right.
A Family Affair
Big thanks to my step-daughter Annette, her husband Ryan, and their kids: Kodi, Shya, Tashina, Jared, Kelsey, and Danny. They put their vacation on hold to help us with this huge project. We couldn't have done it without them. Thanks, guys!
Neighbors and Peace of Mind
The enclosure made our neighbors happy, too. No more complaints about cats on cars or hiding in sheds. Our community life improved, and most importantly, we could sleep well, knowing our beloved cats were safe.
A Successful Endeavor
In the end, our perseverance paid off. The enclosure became a sanctuary for our cats, blending safety and comfort. Through family effort and a little creativity, we turned a challenging project into a triumph.
Our cats had a new home, our neighbors were pleased, and we found peace of mind. Building a cat enclosure became more than a project; it became a journey filled with love and determination.
SIGN UP FOR THECATSITE'S EMAIL UPDATES >
Related Reading:
Cat Enclosures: The Indoors/Outdoors Dilemma
The Five Golden Rules To Bringing An Outdoor Cat Inside
Written Contributions by Mary Anne Miller
Mary Anne Miller is a freelance writer and member of the Cat Writers' Association. She is a web copywriter, and passionate about feral cats/kittens and bottle babies. You can read more by Mary Anne on her Feral Cat Behavior Blog.
Comments? Leave them using the form below. Questions? Please use the cat forums for those!
Note: We may get commissions for purchases made through links on this page.
5 comments on “Building A Cat Enclosure – A Creative Project for Cat Lovers”