Safety Considerations
One of the most important things to consider when having a cat on a balcony is preventing potentially dangerous falls. High-rise syndrome is a veterinary term for injuries sustained by a cat falling from a building, typically higher than two stories (7–9 m (23–30 ft)) [1]. While cats can survive falls from great heights, injuries are still common. To prevent falls, ensure your balcony is completely enclosed with secure screening or netting. Screens should have small openings that a cat’s claws cannot fit into and rip open. Sturdy netting firmly attached to the balcony railing is another good option. You can also install plexiglass panels, though cats may be able to scratch through this over time.
In addition to fall prevention, ensure your balcony itself is safe and secure. Check for any loose railings, loose floorboards or holes where a paw could get caught. Keep balconies clear of any furniture or items a cat could use to jump up onto the railing. Cats are natural climbers, so removing climbable objects helps keep cats safely on the balcony floor.
Outdoor Access
Allowing your cat supervised outdoor time can provide essential mental and physical enrichment. Outdoor access allows cats to experience sights, sounds, and smells they can’t get indoors, as well as the ability to climb, hunt, and explore their natural instincts. According to a 2020 study, outdoor access promotes natural behaviors in cats like hunting, exploring, and climbing (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7070728/).
Supervised outdoor time also provides more exercise and helps prevent obesity. According to Banfield Pet Hospital, outdoor cats typically get more physical activity from being outside, which helps maintain a healthy weight (https://www.banfield.com/en/Wellness-at-banfield/kitten-hub/indoor-vs-outdoor-cats). Allowing outdoor access in a controlled, supervised way can give your cat the benefits of being outside while mitigating risks.
Catios
One great option for allowing cats outdoor access from a balcony is building a catio or enclosed cat patio/run. These are enclosures attached to your home that allow your cat to safely experience the outdoors while preventing escapes or injury (cite: https://catiospaces.com/catios-cat-enclosures/free-tips/). Catios come in many designs to suit your needs and budget.
Some basic catio designs include window boxes, wire dog kennels, and converted balconies with wire mesh or netting. More elaborate options include fully enclosed patio runs made of wood, PVC, or aluminum framing with screen panels or plexiglass. You can build custom multi-level catios with cat trees, climbing shelves, tunnels, and scratching posts. The size can range from small enclosures off a balcony to large patio structures. Consider incorporating plants, bird feeders, and other enrichment items cats can safely enjoy from their catio.
Key considerations for catio design include security, protection from the elements, and ensuring proper ventilation. Make sure to select durable and cat-proof framing, screening, and latches to prevent escapes. Place the catio in a sheltered area and include a covered section for shade and rain protection. Good airflow will help control temperature and odors (cite: https://www.pinterest.com/habitatnetwork/catio-ideas/). With some creativity and DIY skills, you can create a fun catio space for your balcony cat!
Choosing Cat-Friendly Houseplants
When living in an apartment with a balcony, it can be tempting to fill the space with beautiful plants and flowers. However, many common houseplants and flowers are toxic to cats if ingested, like lilies, azaleas, tulips, poinsettias, and chrysanthemums. Thankfully, there are plenty of safe options for cat owners looking to add some greenery.
Some examples of non-toxic, cat-friendly houseplants include spider plants, Boston ferns, roses, sunflowers, marigolds, and Venus fly traps. Always research before buying new plants and closely supervise your cat around any houseplants. Also be cautious of any plants that have thorns or spines that could hurt your cat.
When choosing planters and pots, opt for heavy ceramic or concrete materials that your cat cannot knock over. Avoid fragile containers or anything top-heavy. Place plants out of reach of any ledges your cat could jump to. Keep plants away from ledges to prevent tragic falls. Securely fasten hanging planters and use S-hooks to prevent cats from batting at them.
Entertainment
Cats love having places to play, climb, scratch, and observe the outdoors from a balcony. Providing entertainment is key to keeping your cat happy and satisfied while on the balcony. Some ideas for cat entertainment on a balcony include:
Cat trees – Place a sturdy cat tree on the balcony for climbing and scratching. Look for one with stable bases and multiple platforms (Pinterest). Anchor it to the balcony if possible.
Toys – Rotate different interactive toys to keep your cat stimulated. Try balls, feather wands, treat puzzle games, and more. Store some toys inside and swap them out regularly (The Makeup Dummy).
Scratchers – Have a few corrugated cardboard scratchers in areas around the balcony for scratching. Replace once worn out.
Bird feeders – Position bird feeders where your cat can view bird activity for entertainment. Make sure feeders are not within pouncing distance (Pinterest).
With the right cat trees, toys, scratchers, and more, you can transform your balcony into an enriching playground for your cat.
Exercise
Cats need exercise and activity every day to stay physically and mentally healthy. When living in a small apartment or a home with a balcony, it’s important to provide your cat with exercise opportunities.
Cat exercise wheels are a great option – they allow your cat to get running exercise indoors. Look for a large diameter wheel that is sturdy and quiet. Place the wheel in an open area so your cat can easily access and use it. Start slowly with short sessions to get your cat accustomed to the wheel.[1]
Dedicate playtime each day using interactive cat toys like feather wands, laser pointers, treat puzzle toys, and balls. Engage your cat in active play by getting them jumping, running and stalking. Aim for at least 15-30 minutes split into multiple play sessions per day.[2]
Cat trees and climbing structures placed near windows provide exercise as well as valuable enrichment. Make sure the climbing areas are stable and offer different levels for your cat to jump on and explore.
Leash Training
Leash training your cat allows them supervised access to the outdoors while keeping them safe. Start by getting your cat comfortable with wearing a harness and leash inside the home first. Let them get used to walking around with it on. Be sure to reward them with treats so they associate the harness and leash with positive experiences.
Once they seem comfortable walking around indoors with the leash and harness, start taking them outside on the balcony while attached to the leash. Keep the initial sessions short and positive. Give your cat time to explore and acclimate to the smells and sounds of the outdoors. Reward them with treats for calm behavior. Slowly extend the amount of time spent outside as your cat gets more comfortable.
Always supervise your cat closely during leash training sessions. Be sure to keep them away from potential dangers like open balcony edges. With time and positive reinforcement, leash training can allow your cat supervised access to the outdoors from your balcony.
For more tips, check out this guide on leash training from Anticruelty.org: [1]
[1] https://anticruelty.org/pet-library/leash-training-your-cat
Litter Box Placement
Having a cat in a small space like a balcony presents some challenges when it comes to litter boxes. But with some smart solutions, you can make it work. One of the keys is finding a litter box that fits the available space, like a narrow or triangular design that tucks neatly into a corner. Look for models with high sides to prevent scattering.
When placing the litter box, find a low-traffic area that offers some privacy for your cat yet is easy for you to access for cleaning. You may need to get creative, like stashing it under an end table or in a bathroom cabinet with the door removed. Be sure to give your cat easy access.
To keep odor at bay, scoop waste at least once daily. Empty the box completely every 1-2 weeks. Look for litter brands that help control smell. Adding plants like palms or spider plants can further filter the air. With the right supplies and placement, litter boxes can work fine even in tight spaces!
Bird Feeders
Strategically placing bird feeders can help deter cats from getting to them. According to one source, “A great way to keep cats away from your bird feeder is to make sure the bird table is high-up and out of reach. Something like our Tambora Bird Feeder Pole System allows you to adjust the height of your bird feeders and bird tables, out of reach from jumping cats.” (Source)
There are also deterrents that can help keep cats away from bird feeders. Sprinkling cayenne pepper, citrus oils, or vinegar around the base of the pole and feeder can deter cats from lingering in the area. Placing chicken wire or a plastic carpet runner spike-side up around the pole can also make it uncomfortable for cats to jump up. Just be sure to monitor the area and reapply deterrents after rain or snow. (Source)
Enrichment
Mental stimulation is essential to keep an indoor cat happy, especially when their outdoor access is limited. There are many fun DIY activities and toys you can provide to enrich your cat’s environment on a balcony.
Rotate different types of toys to keep your cat engaged. Interactive toys that make them “hunt,” like toy mice or feather wands, are great for exercise and mimicking natural behaviors. Puzzle toys that hold treats or kibble challenge your cat to work for their food. Scratching posts and cat trees allow them to stretch and scratch. You can also hide treats around the balcony for them to find during daily “scavenger hunts.”
Provide opportunities for them to observe outdoor life. Setting up a bird feeder or placing some cat-safe plants on the balcony gets them engaged with nature. Just be sure to cat-proof any railings.
You can even train your cat to go on walks using a leash and harness. This allows for more outdoor enrichment. Start leash training indoors first. Then work up to the balcony itself before going outside.
Rotating toys, activities, and sights will make the balcony environment dynamic. A mentally stimulated cat in a safe, enriched space is a happy cat!