For years, we let our cats roam freely outside. But when our senior cat Moose didn’t come back, we knew it was time to find a way to keep our cats safe while still giving them the outdoor time they crave.

The debate between keeping cats indoors or letting them outside is a common issue. Many of us want our cats to experience the joys of being outside—basking in the sun, playing, scratching dirt and trees and interacting with the world. Yet our homes also keep them safe from wild animals, infections, parasites, poisons, bad weather and injuries from other animals or vehicles. Plus, keeping cats inside protects smaller wildlife.

A great compromise might be a catio—a cat patio.

Catios are enclosed structures usually made of mesh or wire and come in many shapes and sizes. They can be as simple as a window box or as elaborate as a multilevel playground. You can build one yourself, or you can buy a kit or hire a professional.

Catios fall into two main categories: freestanding and attached.

Freestanding catios aren’t connected to your home, so you’ll need to bring your cat to and from the enclosure. Attached catios connect to your house, often with a cat door or tunnel that lets your cat come and go as they please.

Large or small, freestanding or attached, there isn’t a wrong way to build a catio. Your decision will depend on your budget, available space and your cat’s preferences.

For example, if you live in an apartment, a window box or balcony catio might be a great fit. If you travel frequently, a freestanding catio that’s easy to move might be ideal. If you have a large patio or deck, you could convert part of it into an attached catio with multiple levels. Some companies even offer fence extensions to enclose your whole yard.

 Your cat’s personality also matters. Is your cat a bush dweller or a tree dweller?

Bush dwellers feel most comfortable down low, often hidden under tables or behind plants. If your cat prefers staying low, consider adding tunnels or cubes to their space.

Tree dwellers are confident in high, vertical spaces—on top of tables or climbing plants. For these cats, ramps, shelves and cat trees make the perfect addition.

Whether you’re building, buying or hiring someone to create your catio, make sure to consider durability, safety, flooring, weather resistance and the possibility of your cat escaping.

Catios are becoming more popular, and a simple online search can provide plenty of inspiration for your project. They’re the perfect way to let your cat enjoy the outdoors while staying safe. ν

This article was reprinted courtesy of Happy Cats Haven, a no-kill shelter for cats in Manitou Springs. Learn more at HappyCatsHaven.org.