Outdoor pens?

I have been considering doing an outside pen for my cats so they can enjoy the outside at times. One that they could go to themselves through a door or window would be best I think.

I have heard that some people have had extra critters come through the pens and into their house! That is what I don't want! We live I in New England and there are a lot of critters that are the same size as cats and they might like to check out the inside of our house.

Have any of you ever tried this? Does it work and how if you did do this did you build it?

My cats are strictly indoor cats and love the windows so I often wonder if they would like the fresh air and the outdoor environment if I provide a safe way for them to do it.

 

I have never done this, but I feel like if you build the pen so the cats can't get out, other animals won't be able to get in. Maybe try some glass or glass-like material in the bottom so borrowing animals won't get in so easily and the cats can still see out, with some sort of fencing at the top to let air in? Or maybe not, that might just be like an extended window, huh?

Just be creative in your planning. Make triply sure that your cats can't get out in any way and I think you'll be okay. They're sneaky animals and if you can combat them getting out, you can combat other animals coming in.

 

Our pen branches off from the shed so that the cat can get inside and out. it is held up by wood and is a thick mesh. The cat claws at it sometimes, but never gets through. Other animals can never get in, and the cat can never leave. Because it's mesh, the cat can see outside at all times.

 

I volunteered at a local no-kill cat shelter and they had a huge outdoor pen. It is true that it can attract critters if the cats are messy eaters. You just have to be sure that you don't leave food outside at all hours. I know that little pests would sneak in. Watch out for mice. They love stealing kitty treats.