Review Atlas

Menu

Shop by Category

Get the App

Better experience on mobile

$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
Under $700

Complete Catio Enclosure for Under $700 (2025)

Safe outdoor play space for your cat with frame, netting, furniture, and accessories—all under $700.

💰 Actual Cost: $642.92Save $1350 vs PremiumUpdated December 12, 2025

Love watching your cat explore the outdoors but hate the risks of free-roaming? Professional catios can cost $2,000+, but with $700, you can build a functional 50-60 sq ft enclosure that's escape-proof and weather-resistant. This guide delivers a complete system using compatible, real-world products from Amazon and hardware stores.

You'll get a sturdy metal frame, predator-proof netting, comfy flooring, climbing shelves, an entry tunnel, and extras for enrichment. Your cat enjoys fresh air, sun, and hunting vibes safely. Expect a basic but solid setup—great for 1-2 cats in a balcony or yard, but not luxury resort-level (no automated doors or wood panels). Assembly takes 2-4 hours; it's DIY-friendly.

Realistic limits: This won't withstand extreme storms or large dogs; reinforce as needed. But it beats leashes or windowsills for value.

Budget Philosophy

For a $700 catio, I divided into 4 core categories: Structure (frame + netting/roof, 55% or ~$385)—deserves the lion's share because safety is non-negotiable; cats are escape artists, and predators lurk. Flooring (10%, ~$70)—basic protection suffices. Furniture/enrichment (20%, ~$140)—functional basics keep cats happy without premium fabrics. Accessories/entry (10%, ~$70)—nice connectors and toys round it out, skippable first.

This allocation prioritizes 'must-haves' for immediate usability (enclosure up in day 1) over aesthetics. Trade-offs: Less on decor means more on durability; skipping fancy roofs saves $100+ for netting that lasts years. Compared to premium ($2,000+ kits), we save by using modular metal playpens (versatile, expandable) vs custom wood. Buffer $50 for shipping/tax keeps us under budget.

Where to Splurge

  • Enclosure Frame: Invest in heavy-duty metal panels ($160); cheap plastic warps outdoors, allowing escapes or collapses under cat jumps. Lasts 5+ years vs 1.
  • Safety Netting: Quality cat-proof mesh ($50); thin fabric lets claws rip through, exposing to birds/hawks. Prevents vet bills from injuries.
  • Roof Cover: Waterproof tarp/cover ($30); skimping means rain floods, ruining floor and stressing cats. Ensures year-round use.

Where to Save

  • Flooring: Budget outdoor rug ($60) grips well and drains; no need for premium tiles unless heavy traffic—not sacrificing comfort or cleanliness.
  • Cat Furniture: Basic shelves/hammock ($50 total); generic holds weight fine for play—upgrade later for plush materials without losing function.
  • Toys/Accessories: Simple tunnel/post ($35); cats amuse with basics—you're not missing durability, just variety.

Recommended Products (10)

#1essentialFrame

Goplus 62in Heavy Duty Metal Dog Pet Playpen 8 Panel

Forms the main walls of the catio, creating a 50+ sq ft secure space.

$159.99
25% of budget
Goplus 62in Heavy Duty Metal Dog Pet Playpen 8 Panel

This 62-inch tall 8-panel metal playpen assembles into a spacious enclosure (up to 160x160cm configurable). Powder-coated steel resists rust; door panel for human access.

Perfect budget fit: Durable for outdoors at 1/3 premium price, small 1x2in mesh stops escapes. Vs $400+ catio kits, it's modular/expandable.

Excellent value: Users rave about cat-proofing (holds 2-3 cats), easy fold for storage.

Pros

  • +Escape-proof small mesh
  • +Rust-resistant coating
  • +Quick no-tool assembly
  • +Expandable to 16 panels
  • +1-year warranty

Cons

  • -No built-in roof (add separately)
  • -Panels can shift if not zip-tied
  • -Heavy (40lbs) to move alone
  • -Basic aesthetics

Upgrade Option: PawHut Walk-in Metal Cat Enclosure ($249.99) - Larger 72in height, built-in shelf.

Budget Alternative: Yaheetech 47in Plastic Playpen ($59.99) - Loses metal durability, indoor-only.

Check Price on Amazon
#2essentialNetting

VEVOR Cat Fence Netting Heavy Duty Polypropylene 16.4ft x 32.8ft

Reinforces panels and adds ceiling barrier against birds/predators.

$49.99
8% of budget
VEVOR Cat Fence Netting Heavy Duty Polypropylene 16.4ft x 32.8ft

UV-resistant 3/8in mesh netting cuts to fit, zip-ties easily to frame.

Budget hero: Cat/claw-proof where cheap screens fail; covers full enclosure/roof.

Compares to $100+ rolls: Same strength, half price. Reviews confirm raccoon-proofing.

Pros

  • +Predator-resistant weave
  • +UV/fade-proof for outdoors
  • +Lightweight, easy cut
  • +Washable/reusable

Cons

  • -Requires zip ties (buy extra)
  • -Not fully opaque
  • -Wind can flap if loose

Upgrade Option: Bird-X Stainless Steel Netting ($89.99) - Stronger vs chewing.

Budget Alternative: Mosquito Netting ($19.99) - Tears easily from claws.

Check Price on Amazon
#3essentialRoof Cover

YescomUSA Waterproof Pet Playpen Top Cover 55-62in

Provides shade and rain protection over the top panels.

$34.99
5% of budget
YescomUSA Waterproof Pet Playpen Top Cover 55-62in

Drawstring elastic cover fits 55-62in playpens, polyester waterproof fabric.

Ideal for budget: Blocks 90% rain/sun vs open frame; machine washable.

Vs $60 tarps: Tailored fit, no pooling. Pet owners love it for dry play.

Pros

  • +Full coverage fit
  • +Waterproof/breathable
  • +Drawstring secures tight
  • +Affordable longevity

Cons

  • -Not windproof alone
  • -May sag in heavy rain
  • -One size only

Upgrade Option: Heavy Duty Tarp 8x10ft ($44.99) - Better storm resistance.

Budget Alternative: Plastic Sheeting ($12.99) - Brittle, tears fast.

Check Price on Amazon
#4recommendedFlooring

Gorilla Grip Outdoor Patio Rug 6x9ft Greenguard Certified

Comfortable, drainable base prevents mud/paw dirt.

$59.99
9% of budget
Gorilla Grip Outdoor Patio Rug 6x9ft Greenguard Certified

Reversible woven polypropylene rug, non-slip backing.

Fits budget: Drains water, easy hose-off; covers enclosure base.

Beats $100 tiles: Softer for paws, portable. High reviews for pet areas.

Pros

  • +Quick drying
  • +Stain/mold resistant
  • +Non-slip grip
  • +Easy clean

Cons

  • -Not insulated cold
  • -Edges may curl
  • -Medium thickness

Upgrade Option: EVA Foam Pet Tiles 24sqft ($99.99) - Cushier, modular.

Budget Alternative: Basic Tarp ($19.99) - Slippery, less comfy.

Check Price on Amazon
#5recommendedFurniture

Ongwarm Cat Wall Shelves Mount Kit 3-Pack

Mountable platforms for climbing/perching inside enclosure.

$49.99
8% of budget
Ongwarm Cat Wall Shelves Mount Kit 3-Pack

Carpeted wood shelves with hardware, supports 50lbs each.

Budget smart: Vertical space use maximizes small area.

Vs $150 cat walls: Functional intro. Cats love perches per reviews.

Pros

  • +Sturdy 50lb hold
  • +Easy install brackets
  • +Scratching surface
  • +Scalable set

Cons

  • -Wood scratches over time
  • -Needs frame mounting
  • -Basic design

Upgrade Option: Catastrophic Modular Cat Wall ($129.99) - More levels, modern.

Budget Alternative: Single Hammock ($14.99) - Less climbing options.

Check Price on Amazon
#6recommendedEntry

PetSafe Staywell Original Plastic Cat Flap Door Size Medium

Installs on house wall/window for cat access without human help.

$24.99
4% of budget
PetSafe Staywell Original Plastic Cat Flap Door Size Medium

2-way flap, weather seal, fits 5.5-6.5in hole.

Key connector: Links indoor to catio seamlessly.

Great value vs $50 doors: Reliable 20+ years. Millions sold.

Pros

  • +Easy DIY install
  • +Weather stripping
  • +Adjustable flap
  • +Durable plastic

Cons

  • -Medium size only
  • -Not insulated
  • -Some cats hesitate

Upgrade Option: PetSafe Electronic SmartDoor ($149.99) - RFID locks out strays.

Budget Alternative: Tunnel Toy ($12.99) - No house integration.

Check Price on Amazon
#7optionalEnrichment

SmartCat Ultimate Scratching Post

Sisal post for scratching, exercise inside catio.

$34.99
5% of budget
SmartCat Ultimate Scratching Post

22in tall post with base, all sisal rope.

Budget essential: Saves furniture scratching.

Top-rated vs $60 posts: Cats prefer sisal. Lasts 2+ years.

Pros

  • +Natural sisal appeal
  • +Stable wide base
  • +Replacement posts available
  • +Vet recommended

Cons

  • -Tall for small cats
  • -Sheds initially
  • -No toys attached

Upgrade Option: Armarkat Multi-Level Scratcher ($59.99) - Added platforms.

Budget Alternative: Cardboard Scratcher ($9.99) - Wears faster.

Check Price on Amazon
#8optionalEnrichment

BRANDHOT Cat Tunnel Bed Toy with 3 Openings

Collapsible tunnel for play/hiding, connects to entry.

$22.99
4% of budget
BRANDHOT Cat Tunnel Bed Toy with 3 Openings

54in long fabric tunnel with balls, crinkle sounds.

Fun add-on: Encourages activity.

Cheap thrill vs premium: Same play value. Collapses flat.

Pros

  • +Multiple entrances
  • +Stim toys included
  • +Portable
  • +Washable

Cons

  • -Fabric may fray claws
  • -Noisier than plain
  • -Small for big cats

Upgrade Option: Potty Peepers Plush Tunnel ($34.99) - Plushier material.

Budget Alternative: Skip - Use natural enrichment.

Check Price on Amazon
#9nice-to-haveDecoration

Joktol Artificial Hanging Plants 4 Pack Outdoor UV Safe

Hides frame, adds jungle feel for cat hunting.

$19.99
3% of budget
Joktol Artificial Hanging Plants 4 Pack Outdoor UV Safe

Plastic ivy/vines, zip-tie to frame. Nice visual upgrade. Budget decor: Realistic, non-toxic. Vs real plants (messy).

Pros

  • +UV fade-resistant
  • +Cat-safe plastic
  • +Easy attach
  • +Instant greenery

Cons

  • -Not chew-proof
  • -Lightweight flaps

Upgrade Option: Real Catnip Plants ($29.99) - Interactive scent.

Budget Alternative: Skip - Bare frame fine.

Check Price on Amazon
#10recommendedHardware

Gorilla Heavy Duty Zip Ties 12in 100-Pack

Secures netting, shelves, cover to frame.

$9.99
2% of budget
Gorilla Heavy Duty Zip Ties 12in 100-Pack

UV-resistant black nylon ties. Essential glue for setup. Overkill strength cheap.

Pros

  • +Super strong 50lb
  • +Outdoor rated
  • +Bulk value
  • +Reusable cutters

Cons

  • -One-time use
  • -Visible

Upgrade Option: Stainless Steel Ties ($19.99) - Rust-free forever.

Budget Alternative: Skip if panels interlock.

Check Price on Amazon

Start with site prep: Choose flat balcony/yard spot (10x10ft min), clear debris. Unbox frame first—snap panels together clockwise, add door last (30min, no tools). Running total: $160.

Attach netting: Cut to size, zip-tie every 6in on walls/ceiling (45min). Add roof cover via drawstrings. Total now: $295. Lay rug inside, secure edges with ties.

Install furniture: Mount shelves to frame wires (drill optional, 20min), place post/tunnel. Cut/install cat door on house (template included, 30min). Hang plants. Total time 2-4hrs; 2 people ideal. Tools: Scissors, drill (shelves), ladder. Test for gaps—cats probe weak spots!

Budget Tips

  • Shop Amazon Prime for free shipping, saving $30-50.
  • Buy used playpen on Facebook Marketplace—inspect for bends ($50 savings).
  • DIY shelves from scrap wood/PVC if handy—cut $50 furniture.
  • Prioritize frame/net over toys; cats need safety first.
  • Hunt sales: Playpens drop 20% Black Friday.
  • Measure space first—avoid returns on oversized panels.
  • Reuse home tarps/zip ties to shave $20.
  • Start minimal (frame+net=$260), add later.

Common Mistakes

  • Using indoor plastic pens outdoors—they warp/break.
  • Skipping netting—hawks attack through wire.
  • Overbuying furniture first—$ ignores structure failsafe.
  • No weather cover—rain ruins everything fast.
  • Wrong size door—big cats stuck, small ones ignored.

Upgrade Roadmap

First upgrade: Larger frame (add 4 panels, $80) or premium netting ($90)—boosts space/safety immediately, as cats outgrow quick. Next: Insulated floor tiles ($100) for winter use, then electronic cat door ($150) for convenience. Wait on decor.

With $300 extra, transform to 100sqft pro catio. These matter: Space prevents boredom fights; auto-door cuts supervision. Full premium jumps $1,500 but phase over 1-2 years.

Related Topics

budget catiocatio under 700affordable catiocatio enclosurepet enclosuresbudget pet setupdiy catiocat outdoor safe2025cat playpen