How to build

cat proof fencing

and cat enclosures

Introduction
Contrary to popular belief, cats dont have to roam.
Providing their basic needs are met, cats can enjoy longer
and healthier lives when safely contained to the property.
They wont be hit by cars, injured in fights, become lost
or catch fatal diseases such as feline AIDS. Containing
cats to the property helps protect wildlife from predation,
and prevents neighbourhood disputes about cat nuisance
issues. Cat confinement is also a legal requirement with an
increasing number of councils.
A number of excellent cat enclosure products are available
commercially, however the cost of buying these can be a
problem for some cat owners. This D.I.Y. booklet aims to
help people who wish to save money by building their own
cat enclosure or cat proof fencing.
At the time of publication, the cost of materials for building
the D.I.Y. enclosures was approximately half the cost of
purchasing similar (but already assembled) commercially
available products.
This booklet provides instructions for building:
1) cat proof fencing (ie modifying existing fencing to make
it cat proof, giving your cat free access to parts of, or
your entire, yard);
2) a cat enclosure attached to another structure (ie the
house or a shed); and
3) a free standing cat enclosure.
The instructions in this booklet should be easy to follow for
people with basic D.I.Y. skills. Staff at your local hardware
store may also be able to help answer any questions.
However if you find the D.I.Y. instructions in this booklet
too difficult, you could pay someone else to do the
building, or buy a commercially available product (look
under Pet Shop Suppliers in the Yellow Pages).
Most cats should adapt well to living indoors and in an
enclosure, particularly if they have been kept in this way
from an early age. However, adult cats used to roaming
outdoors may have more difficulty in adjusting. If this is
the case, you can consult your vet for advice. Desexing
cats also reduces their desire to roam and helps prevent
behavioural problems.
It is important to enrich the environment of cats, to
prevent them from getting bored or developing behavioural
problems. The next section explains how this can be done.

How to build cat proof fencing and cat enclosures

Environmental
enrichment
Cats have a number of basic needs that must be met if they
are to stay happy and healthy.
1 Companionship. Cats require plenty of social contact
with owners. This can be achieved by access to the house
through a cat door (and tunnel if applicable). Set aside
time each day to interact with your cat, for instance,
patting, playing with, or grooming him/her.
2 A well-informed owner. You should find out as much as
you can about cat behaviour and care. There are many
useful books and websites available. For instance, do an
Internet search to find information on cat care, indoor
housing requirements, and solving behavioural problems.
Talk to your vet about health and nutritional requirements
for cats.
3 Space. Cats prefer to have their own personal space, and
this is particularly important to prevent aggression in
group housing situations. Each cat requires his/her own
area that provides all the essentials (food, water, bed,
resting places, litter tray etc).
4 Sleeping, resting and viewing areas. Cats like to spend
a lot of time sleeping and resting in quiet areas where
they feel safe and secure. Cat beds can be purchased, or
blankets, towels, pillows etc can be provided. High sided
cat beds and boxes are useful to give cats a sense of
privacy.
Cats use elevated areas as vantage points from which to
observe their surroundings. These are essential, and can
be provided by access to platforms, shelves, climbing
posts or window ledges. Some cats love to watch birds
(you can place a bird bath/feeder outside the window or
enclosure), insects (try planting flowers to attract them),
fish in aquariums and even nature footage on TV!
5 Food and water. Ensure bowls are located away from the
litter tray. Many cats like having their water bowl in a
separate area to their food bowl. Cats can also be given
grass to chew (non-toxic varieties such as oats, wheat,
rye-grass).

6 Litter boxes. Each cat requires its own litter box, that is
big enough for easy access and is located in a safe and
private area (if a cat is startled while using the box, he/
she may not use that box in future). You may have to
experiment to find out your cats preferences for covered
or uncovered boxes, type of litter and depth of litter.
Cats are very clean animals that do not like using dirty
litter boxes, so boxes will need to be scooped daily, and
cleaned with water and non-scented soap once a week.
A thin layer of baking soda placed on the bottom of the
box will help absorb odours between scoopings.
7 Scratching posts. Scratching is a natural behaviour for
cats, that sharpens claws, stretches muscles and leaves
scent marks. Your cat will need a scratching post, which
can be horizontal or vertical, and can be made from sisal
(a course natural fibre), carpet, cardboard or wood. You
can encourage your cat to use the scratching post (rather
than other things like the furniture!) by putting catnip
on it. Cats have an excellent sense of smell, and many
cats love catnip, which can be supplied as a dried herb or
grown fresh in pots.
8 Toys and exercise. Exercise your cat through play (or
even by training your cat to walk outside on a harness
and leash!). Cats enjoy toys that move or make noise, and
remind them of prey such as mice, birds and insects. They
need a variety of toys they can roll, pounce on, capture
and bite, and toys should be rotated regularly to prevent
boredom.
Some examples of simple and cheap toys (that are safe
for cats to play with) are crumpled paper balls, paper
bags to explore, cardboard boxes and toilet paper tubes.
Try stuffing old cotton socks with cotton balls and some
catnip, and tying a knot in the end. You can also buy
furry toys (eg in the shape of a mouse) that make noises
and can be rolled, balls (eg ping pong balls or balls
that can be filled with food or treats), sticks with toys
dangling from the end of a string etc.

How to build cat proof fencing and cat enclosures

1. Cat Proof
Fencing
Have you considered cat proof fencing to keep your cat
contained and safe? Cat proofing your fencing provides
your cat with free access to all or part of your yard. As
an example, see Figure 1 for a photo of a completed cat
proof fence.
If you have a small yard this may be a better and
cheaper alternative to building a cat enclosure. An ideal
spot for cat proof fencing is that narrow area between
the house and a fence that can be closed off at each
end by gates.

Some basic design considerations:

Cats should have access to the house through a cat door. If
there are times when they are not able to access the house,
they require access to a weatherproof sleeping area with a
bed, and an adequate supply of fresh water etc while in the
yard. There must be no dangerous items in the yard or sharp
edges used in the fencing.
In most instances, fence extensions are legal as long as
they are entirely on your side of the fence (ie not directly
above the fence, or intruding over to the neighbours side).
However, some properties may have covenants in place
restricting the height of fences check with your local
council to see if this applies to your property.
The first step in cat proofing your yard is to seal off all
gaps in and underneath the existing fences and gates. Cats
do not usually dig underneath fences. However, if your cat
shares the yard (or is next to a yard) with a dog that digs,
then you may need to put a concrete or wooden plinth in
the soil under the fence to prevent the dog opening up an
escape route. In addition to cat proofing your gates, lock
any gates that are used infrequently and fit self-closing
springs and latches to all other gates around the yard.
If you have a problem with other cats coming into your
yard, you will have to watch to see if they are able to climb
over the cat proof fencing. Most cats should find the netting
too unstable to climb on. However if they can get in, you
will have to ask your neighbour to install the cat proof
fencing on their side of the fence too (to avoid visiting cats
becoming trapped in your yard).

How to build cat proof fencing and cat enclosures

Figure 1: Completed fence

Before considering any treatment it is best to observe your

cats behaviour to see how it is escaping from the yard,
including any possible jumping points that the cat may use
to clear the fence, eg material, equipment or objects placed
near or against it.
Trees and shrubs can be trimmed back or alternatively
a net barrier can be erected to block cat access to the
launching place. Larger section tree trunks can be banded
with a 600 mm wide piece of sheeting (ensure this is at
least 2 metres off the ground). Colourbond steel or clear
polycarbonate is ideal. See Figure 2.
Following installation of cat proof fencing, it is important
to supervise your cat carefully, until you are confident that
it is not able to escape.

Cat proof fencing - net barrier

Tools required
Figure 2: Tree banding

Cordless drill

Tec screw driver bits

Pliers

Wire cutters or scissors

Hammer
Material checklist
Pipe supports

Staples or galvanised speed brace

Soft tie wire

Netting at 900 mm width

Tec screws

Screws or masonry plugs

Wire clips
The pipes to support the netting can be made up by your
steel supplier from 25 mm tubing. Any flexible netting is
suitable provided it is strong, UV stable and rot resistant.
The netting used (Figure 1) is similar to a tennis net and
has 50 mm openings. Ensure holes are small enough so your
cat cant get its head caught in the netting. See Appendix
page 7 for details of a netting supplier. The key to the
netting is that it is floppy enough to feel both unstable
and unsafe for the cat to climb on. Therefore avoid using
rigid netting such as galvanised mesh.

Figure 3: Completed steel support with netting

How to build cat proof fencing and cat enclosures

Step 1 Measure and plan the project

Measure the required length of the 25 mm tubing. The pipes
will run vertically up the fence, before angling in towards
the property (the angled section of the pipe should be
0.7 metres long and be on an angle of at least 35 degrees).
See Figures 1 & 3 for examples. Netting at this angle is
difficult for cats to climb over. The total height of the fence
including the netting structure should be at least 2 metres,
to prevent the cat from jumping over it (some cats can clear
1.8 metres in a single jump!).
Calculate the number of supports required, and check prices
with your supplier. Pipe supports need to be fitted on fence
posts, corners and gates at no more than 2.8 metres apart.

Figure 4: Fixing support pipes

Measure the length and width of the netting required. The

netting will be affixed to the existing fencing and to the
top of the angled section of pipe.

Step 2 Painting
Before you start affixing the pipe supports, paint any
non-galvanised steel with metal primer and paint.

Step 3 Affixing
The pipe supports are fixed to the fence with saddle clips or
clamps. See Figure 4. Drill a small hole in the top of each
support and run a length of galvanised tie wire around the
top through these holes. Fix the netting to the top wire
with metal clips. See Figure 5. The netting can be secured
to the top of the fence with staples and a run of wire.
See Figure 6. Staples attach the run of wire to the fence,
and metal rings are used to attach the wire to the netting.
Ensure the netting is secured to the fence at regular enough
intervals so your cat will not be able to escape by squeezing
between the fence and the netting. Alternatively, netting
can be attached to the top of the fence using galvanised
speed bracing. See Figure 7. This involves placing netting
against the top of the fence and then securing it by
applying speed bracing over the top.

Figure 5: Securing the netting

Figure 6: Netting fixed to fencing with wire

How to build cat proof fencing and cat enclosures

Appendix
Supplier of netting (note there may be other suppliers who
provide suitable prefab fittings, in addition to the supplier
listed below)*
Oxley Nets
20 Network Drive Port Melbourne, Victoria Australia
03 9646 3497 or 1300 730 731
www.oxleynets.com.au

Figure 7: Netting fixed to fencing with brace

*The content of this Department of Primary Industries (DPI) document is provided for
information purposes only. Information published by DPI is considered to be true and
correct at the time of publication. DPI gives no representation or warranty as to the
qualifications or suitability of the service providers listed, nor any representation or
warranty that there are no other persons who provide services of this type as the list
is not intended to be exhaustive.

How to build cat proof fencing and cat enclosures

2. Cat enclosure attached

to an existing structure
There are many options for this type of cat enclosure.
The easiest solution can be to clad an existing pergola
or patio with cat proof mesh, or fit a roof over a small
enclosed area such as a path between the house and
fence. If you do not have a suitable area then we will
show you how to build your patio-style enclosure from
the ground up and also show you a lightweight and
inexpensive alternative that can be constructed from
galvanised water pipe and netting.
Read through the brochure and examine your options,
then go ahead and design your project to suit your
needs.

Some basic design considerations:

Cats must have shelter from sun, wind and rain (although
they still require access to sunshine in the enclosure).
Cats must have a weatherproof sleeping compartment
with a raised bed (which must be kept in a clean and
hygienic condition), along with a separate exercise area.
The litter tray area must be well away from the cats
eating and sleeping areas and must be kept dry and be
easily cleaned. Litter trays must contain an appropriate
litter material and be cleaned daily (many cats will not
use soiled litter, and will therefore soil elsewhere in the
enclosure).
Disinfectants containing phenol must never be used
around cats.
To prevent disease, your cat must be regularly wormed
and vaccinated (as per veterinary recommendations), and
flea control must also be undertaken. Accommodation
should provide good ventilation, as this is vital to
prevent build up of odours that can cause respiratory
problems in cats.

How to build cat proof fencing and cat enclosures

Hygiene and odour shouldnt be a problem as long as your

cat uses its litter tray and the tray is cleaned regularly.
However, in the event of your cat soiling the ground in
the enclosure, you may have to consider adding some
type of flooring. This could be as simple as installing
small gauge wire mesh on the floor to prevent cats from
digging and soiling in the dirt. Alternatively, you could
install concrete or timber flooring that will be easy to
hose down.
Cats require plenty of social contact with owners. This can
be achieved by providing access to the house through a
cat door (and tunnel if applicable).
Each enclosure should provide a scratching pole and be
designed to provide cats with at least two platforms at
different heights. The platforms should be connected by
static (eg planks) or swinging walkways. Cats should also
have access to climbing frames and an interesting visual
outlook.
In a group enclosure a number of hiding and escape areas
should be provided to enable cats to avoid aggression
from other cats.
The size of your enclosure will depend on the number
of cats you wish to house, and how well they get on.
The floor area of an enclosure must be at least 2 square
metres for each cat, with a minimum height of 2 metres,
plus tunnels and auxiliary enclosures. These dimensions
are based on the presumption that cats will also have
regular access to the house.
The first and most simple solution is to span an existing
area, such as a section between the house and fence, a
veranda, patio or courtyard, with a lightweight support
system and cover it with netting. If you are covering a small
span, say between a wall and a fence to make a roof frame,
take the measurements to your hardware supplier who can
advise you on suitable materials and fixing components.
Although this option doesnt involve building a full patiotype structure, we recommend you still read through the
following instructions, and apply those that may be relevant
to your particular project.

Patio-type structure
To span a wide area you will need to consider a typical
patio structure - see Figure 9 on page 14. The most common
patio-type structure involves rafters fixed to the house
or garage, and supported at the other end by posts. The
posts are connected along the top by a timber plate, which
supports the rafters. The best method of setting the posts
into the ground is to bolt them in a galvanised stirrup set
in a concrete footing. Battens are then nailed across these
rafters and the cladding fixed directly to the battens. The
basic structure is outlined in Figure 1.
Tools required
Drop saw

Chisel

Handsaw

Spirit level

Drill

String line

Shifting wrench

Hammer

Shovel

Eye protection

Tape measure

Ladder

Hearing protection Roofing square

Tec screw driver, masonry/ wood bits
Material Checklist
Firstly, draw up a working sketch of your project and take
it along to your local hardware supplier who will advise on
the appropriate timber dimensions and spacings required
for your particular application. Include this information in
your drawing and check with your local council to see if a
building permit is required.
Do not use treated pine in the structure as it may prove
toxic to cats, especially if used as a scratching post.
Typical timber and hardware requirements for an attached
pergola with dimensions of 4.8 metres x 3.6 metres:
Top plate (1) 200 x 50 mm Framing brackets
Posts (3) 100 x 100 mm

Rafters (6) 150 x 50 mm

Braces (2) 75 x 50 mm

Post stirrups (3)

Rails (2) 75 x 50 mm

Concrete pre-mix

Wall plate (1) 150 x 38 mm Galvanised nails and bolts

Joist hangers (3) (attached to the wall plate as Figure 4A)
Battens 45 x 22 mm, (typically fitted at 450 mm centres)
Figure 1: Typical roof structure front view

How to build cat proof fencing and cat enclosures

Construction
Step 1 Set out
To set out the full size plan on the ground, place a string
line parallel to the house along the outside edge of the
patio. Now set two string lines at right angles to the house
at each end of the enclosure. Check the set out is square by
comparing corner-to-corner measurements, ensuring that
they are equal. See Figure 2.
Allow spacing of three metres or less between posts and
mark their position along the outer string line. Walk around
your set out to check dimensions and proportions.

Step 2 Setting the stirrup post supports

Figure 2: String line set out

Dig 200 x 200 mm holes to a depth of 300 mm for each

post. See Figure 1 (point 1C). Prepare the pre-mixed
concrete and fill the holes. Push the post supports into the
concrete ensuring that the stirrup is above the ground level.
This will allow water to drain away from the bottom of the
posts and prevent rot. Align each post support to the string
line ensuring that they are all level and square. Leave the
concrete to cure to specification.
Drill and bolt the posts in position and secure each post
upright with temporary bracing. House (check in) and bolt
the 200 x 50 mm timber plate in position across the length
of the posts and brace the end posts to the top plate with
150 x 50 mm bracing bolted at 45 degrees. See Figure 3.
Please Note: If you are fixing the posts onto an existing
slab use post supports with a flat plate on the bottom.
These are bolted in position with expanding masonry plugs.
Your local hardware attendant can show you this method.

Step 3 Attaching a pergola to the house and fixing

rafters
First fit a wall plate to the house; this wall plate is fixed
to the wall of a brick house under the eaves with masonry
plugs, or to a timber house with coach bolts screwed through
the weatherboards and into the frame. The rafters are then
fixed to the wall plate with joist hangers, and span across to
the top plate at approximately 600 mm intervals or less and
fix with framing brackets or skew nails. See Figure 4A.

Step 4 Fixing battens

Battens are evenly spaced across the rafters at approximately
900 mm intervals or less and nailed in position with
galvanised nails. Battens should be pre-drilled to avoid the
timber splitting.

10

How to build cat proof fencing and cat enclosures

Figure 3: Top plate housing

Step 5 Access door

4A

4B

The door is a simple brace and rail construction made from

hardwood bolted together with galvanised bolts and clad
with mesh. The door is hung between two vertical posts
with a header bolted across at door height. If there are any
children around then consider a childproof latch on the
external door. See Figure 5.

Step 6 Finishing the timber structure

Remember that treated pine is not an option so you will
need to seal the timber to protect it from weathering with a
good quality exterior finish. Paint the internal faces of the
joints before assembly.
Figure 4A: Fixing method for timber
Figure 4B: Fixing method for galvanised steel tubing

Step 7 Roofing/weather-proof cladding

Note that in some cases it may be a legal requirement that
a licensed plumber is required to fit the roofing and flashing
(contact your local water supplier for details).
Corrugated steel products
Zincalume and Colourbond sheeting can be used for roof
and partial wall cladding. If you live by the coast then
specify corrosion-resistant steel sheeting. These products are
easily fixed, however the structure must be sound. They are
weather-proof and permanent but do restrict natural light,
which is a consideration when enclosing an external wall
containing windows. In this situation, clear polycarbonate
sheeting such as Laserlight and Suntuff is an ideal solution.
There is a wide range of grades available, which have
differing light and heat transmission characteristics. Each
product comes with specific fixing instructions, which must
be followed. Remember that some part of the enclosure must
provide cats with access to sunshine, while other areas must
provide shelter from the sun.

Figure 5: Door detail

If you are likely to climb on polycarbonate roof cladding,

you may wish to install a safety barrier directly underneath
the material to prevent accidental falls. Ask your supplier to
recommend a light wire mesh that can be fixed on top of the
battens. The sheeting and end flashing is then fixed to the
battens with self-tapping Tec screws and rubber washers.
You may want to consider installing guttering and a
downpipe, if excess water run-off from the enclosure roof is
a problem. The gutter should be fixed just below the line of
the roofing, across the outside of the end beam. Remember
to allow for a second fall, so rainwater can run along a

How to build cat proof fencing and cat enclosures

11

slight slope in the gutter and flow into the downpipe. The
pipe needs to be attached to the nearest stormwater outlet.
Seek advice from your local hardware store, or contact a
qualified plumber if you need assistance with installing a
gutter and downpipe.

Step 8 Wall cladding options

Galvanised welded mesh is rust-proof and available in a
wide range of sizes and gauges. The maximum mesh size
recommended for cat enclosures is 50 x 50 mm. A wellfixed four-gauge mesh will provide reasonable security
for your enclosure and is strong enough to support
climbing plants should you wish to add them. Metal mesh
is fixed to the timber posts and timber rails with staples
or washers and Tec screws depending on mesh sizes and
loading. See Figure 6. Light flexible mesh is held in
position with a timber batten nailed to posts or your
existing structure (eg house or fence). Ask your mesh
supplier to advise on the optimum fixing method for your
application.
Lightweight 25 x 25 mm mesh makes a good barrier where
security is not a consideration. The mesh can be fixed
with washers and Tec screws.
Galvanised chicken wire is a cheap alternative and is fixed
with battens anchored to the base structure.
Shade cloth is available in a wide range of colours and
opacities making it a good option for your enclosure. It
has good UV stability and will last for years, however it
should be checked occasionally for signs of weakness.
It is fixed to the structure with special fasteners that
are available from your shade cloth supplier. Shadecloth
walls are prone to damage from climbing cats and can be
strengthened with metal mesh. Remember that some part
of the enclosure must provide cats with access to sunshine,
while other areas must give shelter from the sun.
Insect screening can be incorporated into the structure
but it needs to be supported by a stronger mesh.
Commercial netting products are suitable provided they
are strong, UV stable and rot resistant. Access doors can
be sewn in with a zip fastener. See supplier list (Appendix
on page 14).
Please note: If netting is to be used to clad the enclosure
then a wooden board needs to be set into the ground
around the perimeter of the enclosure.

12

How to build cat proof fencing and cat enclosures

Alternative lightweight enclosure

This enclosure is a lightweight alternative to the patio
structure and is intended to be covered with flexible netting
that has a sewn in door. The structure will not support a
roof and is unsuitable for other mesh cladding. This type of
lightweight enclosure is only suitable for situations where
the cat has constant access to the owners house through
a cat door, so it can seek shelter during inclement weather.
See Figure 10.
The frame is made from round galvanised steel tubing that
is bent at an angle, fixed to the wall at the top, and set in
concrete pads in the ground at the other end. See Figure 7.
To provide lateral support, the structure will need to be crossbraced or fixed to something solid, eg a fence.
Figure 6: Fixing light mesh

The recommended wall fitting is a metal flange that is

threaded onto the pipe and fixed to the structure by means
of coach bolts or masonry plugs. See Figure 4B. The other
end of the pipe is set into a concrete footing. Bracing is
attached with prefab pipefittings that are readily available
from your supplier. See Figure 8.
The structure can be covered with a prefabricated flexible
netting cover with a sewn in zippered entrance (see Appendix
on page 14 for details of a supplier of netting products).
Tools required
Shovel

Spirit level

Drill

Roofing square

Masonry or wood bits

Shifting spanner

Material checklist
Figure 7: Tubular steel enclosure

Galvanised pipe

Tie wire

Coach bolts or masonry plugs

Screw on flanges

Flexible netting cover

Concrete pre-mix

Prefab pipe fitting (see Figure 8)

Step 1 Basic Design and Pre-fabrication

Draw the basic plan and discuss it with your steel supplier
who can recommend the optimum pipe diameter, usually
around 50 mm. Have the pipe cut to length and bent. Based
on your design, identify pipes that need to be threaded on
the top end to suit the screw-on flanges for fixing and have
them threaded at the time of purchase.
Figure 8: Prefab pipe fitting

Most suppliers have a delivery service for those hard to

handle components.

How to build cat proof fencing and cat enclosures

13

Step 2 Set out

Start construction with a string line parallel to the
supporting wall at the outside perimeter and another
two string lines at right angles to the wall marking each
end. See Figure 2.

Step 3 Setting the frame posts

Dig the footings and erect the structure ensuring that it
is well braced. Take a spirit level and with a good eye,
sight all pipes from all angles to make sure that they are
in alignment with each other and in alignment with the
support structure. Take care with this stage, as a poorly
aligned frame can look shoddy. Fit the bracing to square
the frame and level the top bars by packing the bottom of
the pipes with small rocks in the footing holes. When you
are happy that everything is straight and square, mix up a
quantity of pre-mix cement and pour the footings. Allow to
set to specification.
Set a wooden board into the ground all around the
perimeter. The prefabricated netting cover will be fastened
to this board. Measure the finished project for the
prefabricated netting.

Figure 9: Patio-type structure. This shows the basic building

structure prior to the addition of solid weather-proof wall
cladding on parts of the enclosure (to provide the cat
with shelter) and prior to the addition of other features
(platforms, climbing planks, scratching posts, beds etc) as
described in the text.

Step 4 Fixing the netting

The netting is tied to the frame with galvanised tie wire. It
is fixed to wood and masonry with battens, as per the patio
structure.

Appendix
Netting products (note there may be other suppliers who
provide suitable netting, in addition to the supplier listed
below)*
Oxley Nets
PO Box 128 Port Melbourne Victoria 3207
20 Network Drive, Port Melbourne, Victoria
(03) 9646 3497, Toll free: 1800 816 505
www.oxleynets.com.au
*The content of this Department of Primary Industries (DPI) document is provided for
information purposes only. Information published by DPI is considered to be true and
correct at the time of publication. DPI gives no representation or warranty as to the
qualifications or suitability of the service providers listed, nor any representation or
warranty that there are no other persons who provide services of this type as the list
is not intended to be exhaustive.

14

How to build cat proof fencing and cat enclosures

Figure 10: Alternative lightweight enclosure

3. Free standing
cat enclosure
Cats love to move around and keep watch over their
territory. They need a warm dry bed and somewhere
to laze in the sun. By building your own cat enclosure
you can tailor it exactly to the needs of your cat. Cats
love the variety that this system of enclosure provides,
especially if it is linked to the family home through
a cat door. To help you design the layout to suit the
space that you have available on your property detailed
instructions are provided on how to build a basic
enclosure together with add-on auxiliary enclosures and
linking tunnels that you can mix and match to make the
perfect enclosure.

Some basic design considerations:

Cats must have shelter from sun, wind and rain (however
they do need a sunny spot within the enclosure).
Cats must have a weatherproof sleeping compartment
with a raised bed (which must be kept in a clean and
hygienic condition), along with a separate exercise area.
The cat litter tray area must be well away from the cats
eating and sleeping areas and must be kept dry and be
easily cleaned. Litter trays must contain an appropriate
litter material and be cleaned daily (many cats will not
use soiled litter, and will therefore soil elsewhere in the
enclosure).
Disinfectants containing phenol must never be used
around cats.
To prevent disease, your cat must be regularly wormed
and vaccinated (as per veterinary recommendations), and
flea control must also be undertaken. Accommodation
should provide good ventilation, as this is vital to
prevent build up of odours that can cause respiratory
problems in cats.
Hygiene and odour shouldnt be a problem as long as your
cat uses its litter tray and the tray is cleaned regularly.
However, in the event of your cat soiling the ground in
the enclosure, you may have to consider adding some
type of flooring. This could be as simple as installing
small gauge wire mesh on the floor, to prevent cats from
digging and soiling in the dirt. Alternatively, you could
install concrete or timber flooring that will be easy to
hose down.

How to build cat proof fencing and cat enclosures

15

 Cats require plenty of social contact with owners. This can

be achieved by providing access to the house through a
cat door (and tunnel if applicable).
Each enclosure should provide a scratching pole and be
designed to provide cats with at least two platforms at
different heights. The platforms should be connected by
static (eg planks) or swinging walkways. Cats should also
have access to climbing frames and an interesting visual
outlook.
In a group enclosure a number of hiding and escape areas
should be provided to enable cats to avoid aggression
from other cats.
The size of your enclosure will depend on the number
of cats you wish to house, and how well they get on.
The floor area of an enclosure must be at least two
square metres for each cat, with a minimum height of
two metres, plus tunnels and auxiliary enclosures. These
dimensions are based on the presumption that cats will
also have regular access to the house.
A basic walk in unit is an essential start to your design and
should incorporate a weatherproof sleeping compartment
with a raised bed or hammock, together with a specific
feeding area. Dont forget to provide a separate bowl for
each cat.
This basic unit can be linked to one or a number of auxiliary
enclosures by means of wire tunnels see Figure 10 for
an example of a finished free standing cat enclosure. The
enclosures are made from an open welded mesh and can be
used to keep the litter tray well away from the main eating
and sleeping area.

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How to build cat proof fencing and cat enclosures

Base unit
The base unit is constructed around a simple steel frame
welded from square section tubing, and includes a walk in
door for cleaning. The unit is clad with a combination of
steel sheeting and wire netting.
See Figure 10 for an example of a finished free standing cat
enclosure, including a base unit.

Figure 1: Prefab frame fitting

The frame can be welded, which is easy to learn so if you

can borrow a welder and get some instruction, spend time
with scrap steel and practice. You will be surprised just how
enjoyable and easy it is. The easiest welding position for a
beginner is to weld a horizontal joint, so it is a good idea
to turn the work where possible to present a flat welding
position.
If, however, you do not have access to a welder, either
have the frame made for you at a local engineering shop,
or alternatively you can use prefabricated fittings, which
are available from specialist welding and engineering
workshops. They can also supply and cut square steel
tubing to suit the fittings. The fittings come in a range of
configurations, such as tee joint, corner joint, and right
angle that will be used in your design. The square tubing
slips neatly into the joint and is fixed with a self-tapping
Tec screw or pop rivet. See Figure 1.

Figure 2: Steel frame for base unit

Figure 3: Fixing frame to concrete

Tools required
Cordless drill and bits

Pop rivet gun

Tape measure

Handsaw

8 mm masonry bit

Leather gloves

Bolt cutters (450 mm

minimum length)
Welder, (note that

welding is optional)
Welding hammer

Tec screw driver bit wheels

Roofing square
Tin snips
Pliers
F clamps with plastic feet
Safety goggles
Angle grinder with cut off
and grinding
Welding magnets
Welding mask

Material Checklist
Tec screws and washers
Hinges
Latch
Tie wire
Primer and paint
8 mm Dyna-bolt
Scrap steel offcuts
Trimdec capping
25 x 25 mm square tubing, primed
25 x 25 mm galvanised mesh
50 x 50 mm galvanised mesh
Zincalume or Colourbond fence sheeting
How to build cat proof fencing and cat enclosures

17

Construction
Step 1 Design
First read through the step-by-step instructions to
familiarise yourself with the component units and the
construction techniques and then establish the number and
type of units that you require.
Go outside and decide on your preferred layout, marking
it out with pegs, paint or tape. See page 10, Construction
Step 1, for an example of a stringline set out. It is a good
idea to leave this set out overnight, and return the next day
with fresh eyes and ideas. Once you have decided on your
layout, draw a simple plan to work from on 1 cm x 1 cm
square graph paper to give you a 1:100 scale drawing. Use
the plan to make up a materials and cutting list and begin
work, following the simple step-by-step instructions.

Step 2 Prepare a cutting list

Working from your plan, prepare a materials and cutting list.
Here is a sample-cutting list that has been taken from the
drawing of the basic unit in Figure 2 which constructs an
approximate 1 x 2 metre enclosure (which is the minimum
size per cat see Design Considerations on page 15 for
details).
Prepare a similar cutting list from your plan.
Material 25 x 25 mm tubing

Quantity Size

Front panel uprights

2050 mm

Door jamb

2050 mm

Top and bottom rails

2000 mm

Door

19800 mm

680 mm

Rear panel uprights

1900 mm

Top and bottom rails

2000 mm

Roof support

1060 mm

Bottom side rails

1000 mm

Cut 25 x 25 mm square tubing to length with an angle

grinder and cut off wheel ensuring that all cuts are square.
Alternatively, your steel supplier can provide tubing cut to
size and give you clean accurate burr free joints that are
easy to weld.

18

How to build cat proof fencing and cat enclosures

Step 3 Assembling the steel frame

Welding
Lay out the components for the front frame on a flat surface
and tack weld the joints. Check the joints are square with
a roofing square and finish the welds. Make up a door to
suit the opening. Lay the door in position and fix to the
doorframe by welding hinges and latch.
Using this finished frame as a jig, lay out the back frame
components on top and weld the joints.

Figure 4: Door closeup

To join the front to the back it is best to enlist another

pair of hands to hold everything in position. Weld the two
bottom rails in position, and gently tip the structure on
its side and weld the roof joints, continually checking it is
square as you go. Weld in the internal brackets for fixing
points for beds, climbing ramps, feed or water stations.
The structure may appear a little unstable at this stage,
but there is no need to worry, as the cladding will provide
adequate bracing when fixed. Check all joints and grind off
any excess welds and burrs. Prime the joints with metal
primer and then finish with a good quality exterior paint.
Welding tips
Have water handy when welding to cool the welds.
A welding magnet can be used to hold components in
place when tack welding joints.

Figure 5: Fixing light mesh

If you are using an arc welder then pick off the slag
from the welded joint as you go and weld again where
necessary.
If you live in a coastal area use a salt resistant sheet
steel cladding.
Alternative to welding
When using prefabricated joiners (see Figure 1) follow the
same construction order, fixing each joint as you go. Use
self-drilling Tec screws or bolts to attach the door hinges,
latch and fittings and finish the frame with a good quality
exterior paint.

Step 4 Installation
If fixing on a concrete base, first check it is square by
measuring corner to corner. See page 10, Construction Step
1, for an example of a stringline set out. Fix the bottom
rails with 8 mm Dyna-bolt. See Figure 3.

Figure 6: Cladding

Where there is no concrete base, fix the frame directly to

the ground with tent pegs driven through holes drilled in
the bottom rail.

How to build cat proof fencing and cat enclosures

19

Step 5 Door
If you find that the finished door lacks rigidity then clad
the bottom section with metal cladding which will act as a
brace. The hinges and latch are fitted to the frame on the
outside with welds or self drilling Tec screws. See Figure 4.
Give some thought to a childproof locking system.

Step 6 Cladding
First establish the shelter requirements for your base unit
and plan which areas will be covered with sheet steel and
wire mesh.
Mesh
Cut each metal mesh panel to size and fix with self drilling
Tec screws and washers. See Figure 5. Do not fix the edges
that will be later covered with the steel cladding.
Sheeting
Calculate the sheet sizes required, bearing in mind that
the standard cover is 760 mm per sheet. The material is
available in a range of stock lengths that you can cut to
size with an angle grinder and cut off wheel. The cladding
is fixed with self-tapping Tec screws and a cordless drill.
Fix the first panel along the upright steel corner frame and
check that the frame is square and then clamp the panel to
the horizontal rails. Check again and then fix these edges
with the Tec screws. Continue fixing around the frame until
completed. See Figure 6.
Roof
Measure the roof opening from corner to corner to check it is
square and fix the roof panels across the narrow width. When
affixing roof sheets, Tec screws must be used on the high
points of ridges in the roof cladding. Now cover the exposed
edges of the roof cladding with U section steel capping,
using self drilling roofing Tec screws. See Figure 7.
Please note: Larger enclosures may require extra roof
support.

20

How to build cat proof fencing and cat enclosures

Figure 7: Sheeting

Auxiliary mesh enclosures

These freestanding units are constructed from 50 x 50 mm
galvanised welded mesh, wired together with galvanised tie
wire. The size and shape of each enclosure will depend on
your requirements and also the stock sizes of mesh that are
available from your supplier. Common sheet sizes are 2400 x
1200 mm, 2000 x 1200 mm and 3000 x 2400 mm.
See Figure 10 for an example of a finished free standing cat
enclosure, including an auxiliary unit.
Tools required for the job:
Tape measure

F clamps

Bolt cutters 450 mm

Roofing square

Angle grinder

Hammer

Pliers with wire cutter

Materials list
Tent pegs or masonry plugs Galvanised tie wire
Figure 8: Design and construction of door

Hardwood post 50 x 50 mm

Step 1 Design and construction

Figure 9: Tunnel bending

Visit your steel supplier and obtain a list of stock sizes that
are available and design the modules around these stock
sizes to minimise off cuts. Cut the mesh with the angle
grinder or bolt cutters and grind off sharp protrusions. Tie
the panels together with tie wire. As cats do not dig deep
enough to escape there is no need for a floor panel, and
the enclosure can be held in place with either tent pegs
or masonry plugs. For a door, simply cut a small opening
and cover with an oversize piece of mesh hinged on one
side with tie wire or netting clips. The hinged door (which
should open inwards) can be latched closed, with spring
loaded clips (eg like dog clips). See Figure 8. Depending
on how flexible the mesh is, you may need to secure the
door with multiple clips to prevent the cat from squeezing
through gaps. If you prefer, the entire lid panel can be
hinged to allow easy access.

Step 2 Fittings
Each enclosure should provide a hardwood scratching pole,
which can be fixed to an internal wall with tie wire. The
enclosure also requires at least two levels of platforms that
are joined by a climbing plank (platforms can either be
supported by a stand or wired to the structure).

How to build cat proof fencing and cat enclosures

21

Step 3 Access tunnels

The individual units are interconnected by tunnels, which
can also be connected to the house via a cat door. See
Figure 10 for an example of a finished free standing cat
enclosure, including tunnels.
These tunnels are made by folding a 900 mm wide length of
weldmesh and anchoring it to the ground. Either bend the
900 mm wide weldmesh over in an arch and fasten it across
the bottom with tie wire, or bend two right angles with the
aid of a jig made from two lengths of hardwood and clamps.
See Figure 9. If a tunnel is to be suspended off the ground,
the floor is made from 300 mm wide lengths of steel cladding
that is wired to the bottom of the tunnel with tie wire.
The tunnels are wired on to the component units and all
protruding wire ends are folded back out of harms way.
To give your cat an entertainment centre, put a birdbath
within view just outside the enclosure. It doesnt seem
to worry the birds and will provide your cat with hours of
entertainment.

Appendix
Supplier of prefab fittings (note there may be other
suppliers who provide suitable prefab fittings, in addition to
the supplier listed below)*
RMD Metal Products
6 Market Road Sunshine Vic 3020
Ph: 03 9300 5100
*The content of this Department of Primary Industries (DPI) document is provided for
information purposes only. Information published by DPI is considered to be true and
correct at the time of publication. DPI gives no representation or warranty as to the
qualifications or suitability of the service providers listed, nor any representation or
warranty that there are no other persons who provide services of this type as the list
is not intended to be exhaustive.

22

How to build cat proof fencing and cat enclosures

Figure 10: Sketch of finished free standing enclosure

(base unit, auxiliary enclosure + tunnels)
Note: Figure 10 shows the basic building structure prior to
the addition of other features (platforms, climbing planks,
scratching posts, beds etc) as described in the text.

This publication is funded by

your cat registration fee
In addition, your cat registration fee funds:
A council identification marker for your cat to wear.

Your local council may also provide any of the

following:

Lost and found service; a guarantee that if your cat is

found wearing the council identification marker you will
be notified.

Education on how to be a responsible pet owner. This

may include the publication of brochures etc.

Council services to respond to calls about wandering dogs

or dog attacks. This includes the removal of aggressive
dogs from the streets, so you can walk in safety.

Programs to subsidise the desexing of pets.

Council services to deal with nuisance problems. These

services manage issues like barking dogs, cat trespass,
and unowned animals.
Council control of dangerous, menacing and restricted
breed dogs in your area. This ensures they do not pose a
threat to the community.
Council monitoring of pet shops, boarding kennels,
catteries, pounds, shelters, and pet breeding and training
businesses. This ensures they meet basic animal welfare
standards required by law.

Pet care days or discount microchipping days.

Rewards for responsible pet owners.
Activities to encourage dog owners to pick up dog faeces
in public places. This may include education, fines, or
providing bins and/or scoop facilities in parks.
Signs for dog on-leash and off-leash areas, and patrols to
check that dog owners comply.
Education to prevent dog attacks.
Every cat and dog three months of age and over must be
registered with your local council. Existing registrations
must be renewed by 10 April each year.

A State Government education program for schools. This

program makes visits to all primary schools in Victoria.
It teaches children about how to be a responsible pet
owner. For more information, see the website
www.dpi.vic.gov.au/pets/education-and-training
A State Government education program for pre-schools.
This program teaches children and parents how to avoid
dog attacks in the home and in public places.
A State Government education program for prospective
and new parents, to teach them about safety with babies
and pets. For more information visit
www.dpi.vic.gov.au/pets/education-and-training
State Government research into cat and dog welfare and
control issues.

How to build cat proof fencing and cat enclosures

23

For more advice or information

Call your local council if you have questions about your
rights and responsibilities as a pet owner. Your council will
also deal with concerns about wandering or nuisance pets.
Advice is also available from animal welfare shelters, vets
and pet clubs. Visit www.dpi.vic.gov.au/pets for contact
details for such organisations, or call the DPI Customer
Service Centre on 136 186 for the cost of a local call. Call
your local council to order free responsible pet ownership
brochures on a range of topics. Fact sheets are also
available online at www.dpi.vic.gov.au/pets.

Acknowledgments
Thanks to Bill Plant (mrdotster@gmail.com, phone
03 5722 1217), who prepared the building instructions
for this booklet. Thanks to Annabel Woodward who
volunteered to trial the cat proof fencing, and also to
Wendy Height for trialing the cat proof fencing and in
particular allowing us to test several different variations.

Animal Welfare - its your Duty to Care

If you would like to receive this information/publication in
an accessible format (such as large print or audio) please call
the Customer Service Centre on 136 186, TTY 1800 122 969,
or email customer.service@dpi.vic.gov.au.
Published by the Department of Primary Industries
Animal Welfare, December 2011.
The State of Victoria 2011.
This publication is copyright. No part may be reproduced by any process
except in accordance with the provisions of the Copyright Act 1968.

24

How to build cat proof fencing and cat enclosures

www.dpi.vic.gov.au

Authorised by the Department of Primary Industries, 1 Spring Street, Melbourne 3000.

ISBN 1 74146 684 9
Disclaimer
This publication may be of assistance to you but the State of Victoria and its employees
do not guarantee that the publication is without flaw of any kind or is wholly appropriate
for your particular purposes and therefore disclaims all liability for any error, loss or other
consequence which may arise from you relying on any information in this publication.
For more information about DPI go to www.dpi.vic.gov.au
or phone the Customer Service Centre on 136 186.