Want to give your favourite feline(s) the “purr-fect” paradise this summer?
Catios – short for cat patios – may be attached to a home or free-standing structure and often include perches, ramps and toys to delight cats of all ages. The enclosed areas allow cats to enjoy being outdoors but prevent them from running away, getting attacked by other animals and other potential outdoor hazards.
Now, the BC SPCA will run the first Vancouver Catio Tour to inspire local cat-owners to consider creating a safe, outdoor structure for their feline best pal.
And while the concept may be foreign to some cat owners, the idea is anything but new. In fact, the outdoor enclosures have become increasingly popular in Portland, Seattle, and other communities across North America.
Catio hosts and volunteers will be available at each catio stop to chat with participants about the features, building process and how the catios have improved the lives of their cats. Some of the kitty-abodes will appear more modest, while others are quite grandiose.
“We are excited to bring this event to Vancouver and explore the gardens of seven participating homes that have built unique catios for their feline companions. It’s going to be a pawsitively fun afternoon that get people thinking about how to improve their cat’s experience of the outdoors,” says SPCA outreach specialist Marieke van der Velden.
Lifestyles of the feline and famous, anyone?
Not exactly, but the SPCA does note that the ‘stars’ – the cats – may be on hand to demonstrate the catios depending on moods and napping schedules. What’s more, tour participants will get a chance to win great raffle prizes from Catfe, Meowbox and more.
“It is a self-guided tour, so participants go at their own pace and decide where to start and end their tour. Anyone who registers will be sent catio tour guidebook ahead of the tour, with photos, catio information and maps to help plan a route ahead of time,” Van der Velden explains.
The tour takes place this weekend on Sunday, June 9. Register today to join the first BC SPCA Vancouver Catio tour.
