Last year, the Prince William SPCA sponsored a give-away to promote keeping cats indoors. We had so many entries that we expanded the winner list from 3 to 9, one in each of the three categories. Why did we do this? Catios not only keep cats safe, but also decrease the negative impact outdoor cats can have on wildlife.

The catios were awarded to families in Prince William County, Manassas Park and Manassas City. 

Listen to what the winners are saying:

“Thank you so much for the catio! Now I have peace of mind that my cats are safe while they have their outside, bird-watching time. I plan on adding more accessories but for now they are happy with the addition of a cardboard box.” – Says guardian for kitties Minnie (3) and Melly (1), from Gainesville, VA

“I’m so grateful to the PWSPCA and Habitat Haven for providing this wonderful upgrade to my kitties’ outdoor space. They love getting the sun’s rays on their backs and being able to get as close to nature as possible without causing a decline in wildlife in my neighborhood!” – Says guardian for kitties Biscuit, Licorice and Sweety, all around 10 years old, from Woodbridge, VA

“This is an amazing, huge, top quality catio that is going to last for years and years. Our cats already love hanging out in the catio and look forward to spending lots of time there enjoying fresh air, sunlight, and watching the world go by. Huge thanks to the Prince William SPCA for this enrichment opportunity!” – Says guardian for Whiskeroo and Leo, both 9 yrs old, from Haymarket, VA

“Many of our cats were neighborhood cats we trapped, fixed, and returned outside but their safety was a constant worry.  As each made the transition to be fully indoor cats, I felt they missed the stimulation outdoor life provided.  We realized they came out more and seemed more comfortable with the windows open, so we used this opportunity to give them the ultimate safe outdoor space!” – Says guardian for Marshall (12), Macy (12), Milo (12), MC, (11), Office (5) and Little Gray and Pixe (5), from Nokesville, VA

What is a Catio?

A Catio (a patio for a cat) is a unique cat enclosure that can enhance the beauty of your house and yard or blend in to create a seamless extension to the home. It’s a secure outside area where your cat may play, exercise, feel the breeze on their whiskers, soak up the sun, hunt for bugs, and observe birds. 

Why cats need a Catio

• Safety: Catios provide a secure space for cats to explore the outdoors while keeping them and other animals safe. They reduce the risk of accidents and injuries while keeping predators from harming your cats. Cats can enjoy the sights and sounds of their surroundings, enhancing their natural behaviors.
• Enrichment and Exercise: They encourage physical activity, helping to prevent obesity and related health issues. Being outdoors encourages cats to explore and experience surroundings beyond the indoors. These experiences improve their mental well-being.
• Wildlife Protection: Free-roaming cats are responsible for killing millions of birds, mammals and reptiles every year. The most significant benefit of a Catio is that it protects birds and other wildlife by encouraging your cat to watch birds rather than hunt them. This is a win-win for cats and wildlife!