Creating a screened balcony for your cat’s safety is a great idea to allow them to enjoy the outdoors while keeping them protected. While our are simple poles curved at the top, bought from a pet store, you can make yours a lot better looking and sturdy. Here’s a basic guide to help you DIY a screened balcony:
Materials Needed:
- Screen Material: Choose a durable, pet-safe screen material that can withstand scratching and outdoor elements. Options include vinyl-coated polyester or fiberglass screens. From experience, we noticed that the cats know they are not supposed to get out even if the screen we used are a bit soft.
- Screen Frames: You’ll need framing material to create the structure for your screens. PVC pipes or aluminum frames are popular choices.
- Fasteners: Screws, nuts, bolts, and/or zip ties to secure the screen material to the frames.
- Tools: Screwdriver, drill, saw (if cutting materials), measuring tape, and scissors or utility knife for cutting the screen material.
Steps:
DIY Screen Balcony For Your Cat’s Safety : Leon outside looking in
- Measure the Balcony: Determine the dimensions of your balcony to know how much screening material and framing you’ll need.
- Design the Frame: Sketch out a plan for your frame. Consider the layout, where you’ll place support posts, and how you’ll attach the frame to the balcony structure.
- Cut the Frame Material: If you’re using PVC pipes or similar materials, measure and cut them to the appropriate lengths using a saw.
- Assemble the Frame: Use connectors, screws, or zip ties to join the frame pieces together according to your design.
- Attach the Frame to the Balcony: Secure the frame to the balcony railing or walls using appropriate fasteners. Make sure it’s sturdy and can withstand the weight of the screen and any cats that might lean against it.
- Install the Screen Material: Cut the screening material to fit each section of the frame, leaving some excess to ensure a secure fit. Use fasteners to attach the screen to the frame, stretching it taut as you go.
- Secure Edges: Fold over the edges of the screen material and secure them to the frame using staples or specialized screen spline and a spline tool.
- Inspect for Safety: Double-check the entire structure to ensure there are no sharp edges or gaps where a cat could escape or get injured.
- Add Cat Furniture: Consider adding shelves, perches, or cat trees to provide enrichment and vertical space for your cat to explore.
Additional Tips:
- Safety First: Make sure the balcony is safe for your cat. Check for any potential hazards such as gaps in the railing or toxic plants.
- Supervise Initially: When introducing your cat to the screened balcony, supervise them closely to ensure they adapt well and don’t attempt to escape.
- Regular Maintenance: Inspect the screen periodically for wear and tear, and replace it as needed to maintain its effectiveness.
By following these steps and safety precautions, you can create a safe and enjoyable outdoor space for your cat to enjoy!
DIY Screen Balcony For Your Cat’s Safety : Safe and Sound
