Cat Enclosures Across the UK

Often not. In England, a freestanding catio in a back garden is usually treated as an outbuilding under permitted development, which allows it without planning permission if it stays behind the front of the house, is no more than 2.5 metres high when within 2 metres of a boundary, and together with other outbuildings covers no more than half the garden. A catio attached to the house may be treated as an extension instead. Flats, listed buildings and some conservation areas have tighter rules, and Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have their own, so check with your council if in doubt.

Fences, walls and gates are normally allowed up to 2 metres high, or 1 metre next to a road used by vehicles, without planning permission. If a topper takes the total height above that, permission may technically be needed, although angled mesh toppers rarely cause problems in practice. It is worth talking to neighbours first, especially if the fence is shared.

Bigger is better, but height and things to do matter as much as floor area. For one or two cats, a walk-in catio of about 2 metres by 1.5 metres with shelves at different levels works well. Window boxes can be much smaller because they are an extra space rather than the only outdoor area.

Galvanised or plastic-coated welded wire mesh with holes of around 25 mm or 50 mm by 25 mm is a common choice. It is strong enough to stop cats pushing through and keeps out foxes and other cats. Chicken wire is too weak and should be avoided.

Yes. A catio built against the house and linked by a cat flap in a door, wall or window gives your cat free access in and out. It needs proper fixings into the wall and care with drainage and damp, and if you rent or own a leasehold flat you will usually need permission first.

It works well when every weak point is dealt with. That means a topper along all fences and walls, no gaps under gates, and nothing near the boundary such as sheds, trees or bins that a cat could use as a launch point. We look at the whole garden before quoting.

Usually, as long as your landlord agrees. Freestanding kit enclosures and window boxes that can be removed without damage are often the easiest to get approved, and they can move with you.

Give part of the enclosure a solid roof and a sheltered corner for rain and wind, and some shade for hot days. Add shelves, a bed and fresh water, and check the enclosure regularly for loose mesh, rot or damage.