Cat owners in parts of the South West are being encouraged to create safe and stimulating outdoor spaces for their feline friends, with a new catio rebate now available.
After the success of the GeoCatch catio rebate program over recent years, the program is back, offering $300 towards the construction of a new catio for residents intent on keeping their cats safely contained at home.
Budget-friendly options can be built DIY or with the help of a professional catio installer, using recycled materials and cat netting to safely enclose an existing patio, veranda or the side of a house.
Enclosures can incorporate garden spaces along with tunnels, climbing structures and vertical features to keep cats active and entertained.
GeoCatch project officer Kim Loveridge said catios provided significant benefits for pets and local wildlife.
“Catios are a fantastic way to give cats safe access to the outdoors while keeping them protected from hazards such as traffic, disease and fights with other animals,” she said.
“At the same time, catios help protect our native wildlife by reducing opportunities for cats to hunt birds, reptiles and small mammals.
“They’re a practical solution that benefits both cat owners and the environment.”
The rebate program has had strong community interest since its inception in 2023, demonstrating that many residents are keen to find responsible ways for their pets to enjoy the outdoors while supporting local biodiversity.
More information about the project can be found on GeoCatch’s website.
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