Watch This Man Transform a Bare Balcony Into a Beautiful Catio
If you've got an indoor cat that yearns for some fresh air, a catio (or cat patio) can be the perfect compromise. Of course, that means you've got to have some closed-in outdoor space within which the cat can roam free, and this is particularly tricky when you live in an apartment.
Balconies aren't usually very safe for cats. One leap could have devastating consequences-unless you screen-in said balcony and turn it into a catio, which is exactly what the good folks at RenovaPets did in the video below.
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The YouTube channel is dedicated to showcasing DIY ideas for pet parents who'd like to give their pets more room to roam, even in smaller spaces or apartments with balconies.
In this short, we watch a man screen in the balcony and create a space that's beautiful, relaxing and enriching for cats and humans alike.
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/yNdiXr2NsoY
He starts by drilling safety screens into the roof, floor and railing of the balcony, using wired screens that let plenty of airflow without leaving holes big enough for any cats to squeeze through.
Next, he places wooden floorboards on the balcony, which beautify the space, transforming the gray concrete into something that feels warm and natural.
An outdoor love seat, a rug and a coffee table cat bed make the space feel cozy and create a nice sitting area for humans and felines to enjoy. He affixes some cat shelves to the wire, which would be tricky to pull off because you have to make sure they can support the weight of the cats, but it does create more vertical lounge space.
A hanging cat bed is hung from the ceiling, and plants are added throughout the space to give the balcony even more relaxation vibes. In the end, it looks like a perfect cat paradise.
Related: Target Side Table Doubles as a Cozy Cat Hideaway
Why Are Catios So Popular?
Catios have really taken off in recent years, and it's easy to see why.
These spaces allow cats a feeling of freedom and the ability to watch the world outside without sitting by a window for hours. They provide fresh air, mental stimulation and protection from would-be predators.
It also keeps them from turning into little predators, if you're worried about your cat swiping at a bird or other small animal. By the same token, it keeps them from getting into fights or other entanglements with neighboring cats and strays, although they communicate just fine through the mesh screens.
Many cat lovers swear by the magic of catios, and, if done like this balcony idea, it can provide another cozy lounge space for both you and your cat to enjoy.
Related: This Woven Cat Bed Is Perfect for Cats Who Love to Curl Up
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This story was originally published May 6, 2026 at 9:05 PM.