I need help with an idea...

**slleipnir** · 07-17-2006, 04:34 PM

My cats love going outside...however, I can't stand the idea of them wondering about on their own. So, the only time they go out is if it's on a leash when I'm out gardening. Sometimes they roll around and get out of the harness. (only Butter, really)

So I have been thinking for a while that I would like to build a small enclosure on the side of the house connecting to a window for the cats to come in and out as they want. It would only be a little space, but they could have some grass, and have a small bush/tree to play on...

My dad really doesn't like the idea, and doesn't think the cats would use it. I think they would, if I did it right. That's the problem, how!

I have a spot to put it...there is a window that would go out in the dog fence. It would need to be closed off with a top, though. My problem mostly is the window itself. The screen doesn't really come off, I guess (old house)...It must be able to lift up a little, I would think. How can I build something that will let them in and out, but keep bugs out at the same time?? If it was a door of some sort, how would the cats jump back inside???

Any ideas? I was thinking of using chicken wire...would that work?

**Corinna** · 07-17-2006, 04:38 PM

I have an old dog kennel thats backed up to the window in my bathroom. it's a bit off the ground so I made a small ramp for the old guy to go down. They love it as they were used to going out until we moved in to town more .

**moosmom** · 07-17-2006, 05:01 PM

Chicken wire is perfect for an enclosure. Another thing that would be god for the cats is a large tree branch so they have a place to hang and scratch.

Good luck with the enclosure!! Can't wait to see pictures.

**slleipnir** · 07-17-2006, 05:55 PM

I can't figure out what to do though..and unless I come up with a good idea, my dad won't let it happen.

**flamepony12** · 07-17-2006, 06:08 PM

I think it's a great idea! Amber would be like.. obsessed with it, haha D: Maybe you can use screening or something. Like, screen doors.. if you know what I mean XD That would probably work to keep the cats in and bugs out. But I'm not exactly sure how you'd put it together.. -hides-

**slleipnir** · 07-17-2006, 06:09 PM

Originally Posted by flamepony12

I think it's a great idea! Amber would be like.. obsessed with it, haha D: Maybe you can use screening or something. Like, screen doors.. if you know what I mean XD That would probably work to keep the cats in and bugs out. But I'm not exactly sure how you'd put it together.. -hides-

That's what I'm thinking, but I can't seem to figure it out...*dies*