By Mara Ellison, GoPetr companion-animal writer. General information only — not a substitute for advice from a registered veterinarian or your local council.
If your council has brought in a cat curfew — or is about to — you have probably wondered how to keep your cat content once the open backyard is off the table. A catio is one of the most practical answers. In plain terms, it is a cat enclosure that gives your cat fresh air, a patch of sun and something to watch, while keeping it safely contained. As cat containment rules spread across Australia, more owners are weighing up whether to buy, build or fence.
Why catios are having a moment in Australia
Cat containment is no longer a fringe idea. Knox City Council in Victoria has required cats to stay on their owner’s property 24 hours a day since April 2022, with a first-offence fine of about $91. Wyndham City moves to full 24-hour containment under its 2026–2029 animal management plan, and more than a third of Victorian councils now run at least an overnight curfew. The RSPCA encourages keeping cats contained — at a minimum from dusk to dawn — because it reduces injuries from cars and fights, lowers disease risk, and eases the pressure roaming cats put on native wildlife. A catio lets you meet those rules without confining your cat to four walls. For the legal detail in your area, see our guide to cat containment laws in Australia.
The main types of cat enclosure
RSPCA Victoria outlines several ways to give a contained cat safe outdoor access:
- Catios — custom structures, freestanding or attached to the house, built from netting, mesh, steel or timber with multiple levels.
- Cat runs — tunnel-like galvanised mesh structures that can wind around the side of the house or garden; handy where space is tight.
- Cat netting — an unobtrusive, low-cost way to enclose a balcony or a narrow strip beside the house.
- Cat-proof fencing — converts the whole backyard, provided the fence is at least 1.8m high with no trees near the line.
- Portable enclosures — modular panels that pack down, which suits renters who move often.
What does a catio cost in Australia?
Prices swing widely with size, materials and whether you install it yourself. As a rough guide based on current Australian supplier pricing:
| Enclosure option | Typical cost (AUD) | Best suited to |
|---|---|---|
| Cat netting (balcony or side of house) | From around $150 | Apartments and narrow spaces |
| Small pre-made kit or cat house | $200–$500 | Renters, small yards, one cat |
| Freestanding modular enclosure | $400–$1,500 | Backyards you may expand later |
| Professionally installed netted catio | From around $2,000 | Enclosures attached to the house |
| Premium custom multi-level catio | $5,000–$6,000+ | Permanent, larger builds |
Which option is right for you? A quick checklist
Run through these questions before you spend:
- Do you rent? Choose portable panels or freestanding kits you can take with you — and check your lease and council rules first.
- How much space is there? A balcony points to netting; a courtyard suits a compact kit; a full yard may justify cat-proof fencing.
- One cat or several? Multiple cats need more platforms, hiding spots and floor area.
- DIY or installed? Pre-made kits assemble with basic tools; attaching a catio to the house is usually a job worth quoting out.
- Sun and weather? Make sure the spot has shade and shelter, not all-day western sun.
Setting up a safe, comfortable enclosure
Whichever style you pick, RSPCA Victoria advises that a good enclosure includes shelter from sun, wind and rain, fresh water, a litter tray, a scratching post and at least two platforms at different heights, plus good ventilation and hiding spaces. Check the structure regularly for gaps or sharp edges, and remove anything hazardous from the space. Enrichment matters just as much as the frame — rotate toys, add climbing levels and a sunny perch. Our indoor cat enrichment ideas work just as well inside a catio.
Frequently asked questions
Do I legally need a catio?
Not specifically. Councils require that your cat stays contained, not that you build a particular structure. A catio, cat run, netted balcony or cat-proof fence are all valid ways to comply. Confirm the exact rules with your council, or read our plain-English cat curfew guide.
Can I convert a cat to enclosure life if it is used to roaming?
Many cats adjust well when the change is gradual and the space is enriched. Introduce the enclosure in short, positive sessions with food, toys and a familiar bed. If your cat shows ongoing stress, speak with your veterinarian.
Is a catio worth it for an indoor-only cat?
For a lot of owners, yes. Safe outdoor access adds sensory stimulation — smells, breeze, birdsong — that a purely indoor home cannot, without the roaming risks.
Key takeaways
- Cat containment rules are expanding across Australian councils, and a catio is a practical way to comply while keeping your cat stimulated.
- Options range from low-cost netting to premium custom builds — roughly $150 up to $6,000+.
- Match the enclosure to your space, number of cats and whether you rent.
- A good enclosure needs shelter, water, litter, height and hiding spots — and a check for gaps and hazards.
- Always confirm your own council’s rules, and consult a vet if your cat struggles to adjust.
