Catio cost calculator
Size a catio and see what it takes: boards, mesh, roof sheets, fixings and a planning cost range. Edit the prices to match your local store.
Materials
$470–$770
| Item | Qty | Range |
|---|---|---|
| 2×3 lumber, 8 ft | 26 pieces | $127–$190 |
| Welded wire mesh, 1 × 1 in 16 ga, 36 in × 50 ft roll | 2 rolls | $140–$220 |
| Polycarbonate roof sheet, 26 in × 8 ft | 2 sheets | $50–$80 |
| Exterior screws | 200 screws | $22–$32 |
| Mesh fixings (screws + washers or staples) | 300 fixings | $24–$36 |
| Ground anchors | 10 each | $40–$80 |
| Door hardware (hinges, latch, closer) | 1 kit | $21–$37 |
| Shelf / ramp boards and brackets | 4 each | $50–$94 |
- Framing members
- 26
- Lumber
- 177 ft 9 in
- Cut waste
- 15%
- Mesh incl. overlap
- 183 sq ft
Planning estimate, not a quote. Counts come from a simplified frame (posts at ≤ 4 ft spacing, a mid rail on tall walls, cuts packed onto 8 ft boards, 10% mesh overlap). It excludes tools, finishes, delivery, tax, labour and permits. The planner’s build package counts your actual design.
Questions
How much does it cost to build a catio?
Materials for a small window box can run to a few hundred dollars or less; a walk-in lean-to or freestanding catio usually costs several times that, and more with a solid roof, heavier framing or premium mesh. Use the calculator with your local prices for a better range.
Why a range instead of a price?
Lumber and wire prices vary by region, season and store. A range with editable assumptions is more honest than a single number.
What is not included?
Tools, stain or paint, delivery, tax, labour, permits, and any cat furniture beyond simple shelves and ramps.
Design your catio in your browser
Free to design and check. Fit a catio to your wall, window and yard, run the safety checks, and see the materials list before you buy a single board.