Turn your Patio into a Catio – the purrfect enclosure for your feline friends in 2026

January 20, 2024

In 2026, more Queensland cat owners are embracing catios—safe, enclosed outdoor patios that let indoor cats enjoy fresh air, sunshine, and natural stimulation without the risks of roaming free. Turning your existing deck or paved patio into a catio (or adding a timber deck and patio roof first) provides the perfect foundation. DeKing Decks specialises in building durable timber decks and patio roofs tailored for Queensland homes, making it easy to create this purrfect feline haven that both you and your cats will love for years to come.

Do Cats Love Fresh Outdoor Air and Sunshine?

Yes!  more Queensland cat owners than ever are discovering how much their indoor cats crave safe outdoor experiences. If you have cats or kittens longing for fresh air, sunshine, and a bit of adventure without the risks of roaming free, turning your patio or deck into a catio (cat patio) is an ideal solution.

Do you already have a deck or paved patio with a roof?

You’re halfway there—simply enclose it with secure netting or mesh to create a safe haven. 

If your outdoor space lacks a roof, getting a patio roof installed is the perfect first step to enable full enclosure as a catio. If you are looking to build a timber deck and patio roof for your family, including your cats, DeKing can help. You can then enclose it with DIY netting or get a specialist company in.

Indoor setups like scratching posts and toys are great, but nothing beats the real thing: lounging in warm sunlight, feeling the breeze, watching birds, and running. A catio also makes an excellent spot for the litter box, keeping it out of the laundry or bathroom.

What exactly is a Catio?

A catio provides safe, enriched outdoor access without the dangers of traffic, predators, or wildlife conflicts—issues that remain top concerns for Australian cat owners in 2026. Benefits include:

• Mental and physical stimulation from climbing, exploring, and bird-watching.
• Reduced stress and anxiety through natural sunlight and fresh air.
• Encouragement of healthy behaviours like scratching, perching, and playing.
• Protection for local wildlife, as cats stay contained.

In Queensland’s warm climate, a catio lets cats enjoy the outdoors year-round while staying secure.

Why Turn Your Patio or Deck into a Catio?

A catio is simply a patio designed for cats—an enclosed outdoor extension of your home that lets your feline friends play, relax, and exercise safely.

There’s no one-size-fits-all catio. Some owners enclose the entire patio for maximum space, while others section off a cozy corner or add a conservatory-style setup. Advanced designs even include tunnels connecting to windows or doors for easy home access.

Catios are often fitted with multi-level shelves, climbing trees, scratching posts, catwalks, tunnels, and comfy beds. Once your cat discovers this outdoor paradise, they’ll never want to go back inside—it’s pure feline heaven!

How Can I Add a Patio Roof to My Existing Deck or Patio for a Catio in Brisbane?

If your deck or paved area lacks a roof, installing one is straightforward and transformative. A quality patio roof provides essential shade, rain protection, and a solid structure to attach enclosure netting. 

DeKing Decks specialises in building durable timber decks and patio roofs tailored for Queensland homes—perfect foundations for a catio.

DeKing Decks uses high-quality materials to ensure longevity in our humid, sunny conditions, giving you peace of mind for your pet’s space.

How Do I Enclose My Patio or Deck as a Catio?

Start with a solid base like an existing deck or concrete patio and a patio roof. Add strong cat-proof netting or metal mesh (galvanised wire or heavy-duty cat netting from Australian suppliers) to walls, and posts, and any gaps—no escapes or predator intrusions!

Secure edges underground or to the foundation to prevent digging. Use a cat door in a wall, window, or door for access—consider lockable options for control.

What Should I Include in My Catio for Maximum Cat Enjoyment?

Tailor it to your cat’s personality:

• Multi-level shelves and ramps for high perches or easy access (great for seniors with mobility issues).
• Scratching posts, activity trees, tunnels, toys, and hanging items for play.
• Shady and sunny spots, cosy beds, and natural elements like rocks or branches for balance practice.
• Cat-friendly plants in pots (check for safety), bird feeders outside for entertainment, or a water fountain for zen vibes.

If sharing the space, add chairs, a table, outdoor rug, or coffee spot for you to relax with your cats.

Other Catio Considerations

• Access – How will your cat get in and out of the catio? Access points can be a cat door in a wall, door or window. Do you need to be able to lock the access at any point in time and keep the cats inside only? Will you be sharing the space with your cats (room for chairs, etc)? Make sure you allow for a door to clean up any accidents or for emergency access if your cat becomes ill or injured and unable to come out by itself.
• Foundation – a solid, level foundation is important for a good catio. This could be an existing deck or concrete patio. Artificial turf is a good covering for the ground. If you are using and area with natural grass or dirt ensure the edges of the catio are secured underground (cats can and will dig to escape the catio).
• Age of cats – The addition of ramps should be considered if you have senior cats or cats with mobility issues or arthritis. This will make access easier for them. Also having lower shelves and beds will give more lounging options if they find it difficult getting around. A bird bath or feeder located outside the enclosure will keep your cats entertained for hours. Your cats can watch and stalk the birds, but keep the birds safe while they are bathing and eating. If you have younger cats and kittens they are usually full of energy and would love the space to include lots of play things to bat around, shelving to run and jump on, hide and seek boxes and hanging toys.

Adding a catio will bring both you and your cat years of enjoyment. Your furbabies will thank you for being such a great pawrent.

FAQs About Catios on Decks and Patios

1. Do I need planning approval for a catio enclosure in Queensland in 2026?

You will need approval for a new deck and or patio roof. But not to enclose these structures with cat netting, but check local council rules if adding height or major changes—DeKing Decks can advise.

2. Is a timber deck better than concrete for a catio base?

Yes—timber decks from DeKing Decks offer a natural, grippy surface cats love, plus easier integration of climbing features.

3. What’s the best roofing for a catio patio in Queensland?

A durable patio roof provides shade and weather protection. We recommend installing an attached patio roof that can be insulated or non-insulated.

4. How much does enclosing a patio as a catio cost in 2026?

Costs vary by size. See our quote calculator

5. Can senior cats enjoy a catio safely?

Absolutely—add ramps, lower shelves, and cosy spots for easy access and relaxation.

DeKing Decks Is Here to Help You Create the Purrfect Catio Foundation

The team at DeKing Decks can design and install your timber deck with patio roof or add a roof over your existing patio, setting the ideal foundation for a secure catio enclosure. 

DeKing services Brisbane, Redlands, Bayside, Logan, Ipswich, Moreton Bay, Gold Coast, and Sunshine Coast

At DeKing we only use quality products and offer expert advice, this gives you complete peace of mind.Contact us at DeKing to discuss your timber deck and patio roof  options