Cats love to bask in the sun and enjoy the breeze as much as we do. But all it takes is a moment of distraction for them to get themselves into trouble. That’s why taking steps to cat-proof your balcony is the best way to ensure they’re safe while they explore the outdoors.

If you’re a cat parent with a balcony patio, you’ve probably panicked once or twice about your furry friend going over edge (Okay, maybe more than once or twice…) But it’s a very real fear to have; many cats fall from balconies each year. We tend to think of cats as impervious to falls, but even a fall from heights as low as five meters can cause injuries. Even if you’re on the ground floor, there are numerous reasons cats shouldn’t be go outdoors unsupervised—for their safety and the safety of local wildlife.

Letting your cat roam freely on the balcony can be risky, even if you’re there to supervise. With the right precautions in place, you can create a safe outdoor space—a catio, if you will—where your cat can enjoy the outdoors safely. Keeping them safe while they’re outside is crucial, and that’s what this guide is here for.

3 Ways to Cat-Proof Your Balcony

Here are some ways to keep your cat safe while still letting them enjoy some fresh air:

Mesh Screens

Cats usually beg to go outside because they’re curious about everything out there. If you give them an option that allows them to interact with nature safely, they can take everything in without putting themselves in harms way. You can incorporate visibility and safety into your balcony at the same time by using mesh to divide up the space.

Balcony Glazing

For a solution that both you and your furry friends can enjoy, consider balcony glazing. It’s made of tempered, CE-marked glass for maximum safety, allowing your cat to relax in the sunlight while staying secure. You can even lock the glazing in a ventilated position, so your balcony doesn’t get too hot. Just remember to give your cat a way to get back inside—your cat will appreciate the option to retreat indoors on their terms.

Netting

If there are gaps that run between your balcony railing and the flooring, add mesh along this space to prevent your curious cat from venturing too far. These nets keep even the most adventurous felines from escaping, whether they’re chasing butterflies or just climbing beyond their means. Make sure the net reaches all the way to the ceiling and is securely attached—young cats are eager to jump and climb!

Make Your Patio More Cat-Friendly

Here are some ideas for what you can incorporate into your patio to help your feline friends enjoy them even more.

• Cat condo: Cats love observing their surrounding from shelter, and from heights. Add a cat condo where they can nap and watch the world around them from a secure post.
• Scratching post: Speaking of posts… you may want to bring a scratching post outside so they aren’t tempted to dig their claws into your patio furniture.
• Shade: Our furry friends need sun protection, too. Provide shade for them when they need a break from chasing the sun rays, along with water for them to stay hydrated.
• Plants: Adding lush, vibrant plants to your patio is a simple, but effective, way to breathe new life into the space. But you need to be sure the plants you bring in are cat-friendly. You can also bring in plants specifically for your cats, like catnip and cat grass, for them to snack on.

Balcony Solutions For Your Home

There’s no limit to what you can do with your balcony, and with Lumon’s retractable glazing. Whether you’re planning out a cat-friendly patio, want to convert your balcony into a home gym, or just need a serene place to kick your feet back, we’re here to help.

With a free home consultation, we can get you set up on the path to your next great home project. Get in touch with a design consultant today for your free estimate!