Paws and patios: the cat craze taking over British back gardens
If you’re a cat owner with access to the Internet, I’m sure that at some point you will have come across a “catio” – an enclosed outdoor patio for your cats.
One of Chris' catios built in May 2024. Photograph: Chris Allen
The catio is an American trend (unsurprisingly) that has clawed its way into UK gardens and quickly become a cat lover staple. However, unlike many American trends that make their way to the UK, catios stand out as a welcome addition for feline enthusiasts, offering a much-needed blend of sunshine, fresh air, and safety - ingredients that create the perfect recipe for a happier, healthier cat.
Chris Allen, otherwise known as the ‘Catio King’, stepped into the world of catios in 2019 after building one for a customer whose garden wasn’t suitable for his usual fenc...