The Best Outdoor Cat Enclosures & Catios (UK 2026)

By the Purr Perch editorial team · Updated 2026 · How we test & score

An outdoor cat enclosure - a catio, run or tunnel - lets your cat enjoy fresh air, sunshine and stimulation while staying safe from traffic, predators, theft and getting lost. It's a popular way to give indoor cats the outdoors safely. Here's what to look for and our top outdoor enclosure picks.

Quick answer

PawHut, Maxmass, Pawtenda and Homegroove make excellent outdoor cat enclosures, from wooden runs and catios to portable pop-up tents and tunnels. Decide between a permanent structure (wooden run or catio, sturdier and roomier) and a portable pop-up (light, foldable, easy to store). Prioritise a secure, escape-proof design with shelter from sun and rain.

What to look for

Size and security come first - the enclosure must be genuinely escape-proof and give real room to move, climb and rest. Weatherproofing matters for anything left outside (a treated wooden frame, a roof or cover, rust-resistant metal). Consider a tunnel or cat-flap connection so your cat can come and go, level ground for setup, and some shade and a sheltered spot inside.

How we pick

We rate outdoor enclosures on security, usable space, weatherproofing, build quality and value - across permanent runs and portable pop-ups. Every pick is a genuine outdoor cat enclosure.

Our top picks

Frequently asked questions

Are outdoor cat enclosures a good idea?

Yes - an outdoor cat enclosure lets your cat enjoy fresh air, sunshine and stimulation while staying safe from traffic, predators, theft and getting lost, and it protects local wildlife too. It's an increasingly popular way to give indoor cats safe outdoor time. Make sure it's secure, weatherproof and big enough to move around in.

What's the difference between a catio and a cat run?

The terms overlap, but a catio is usually a patio-style enclosure attached to a house, window or balcony for safe fresh air, while a cat run is typically a larger free-standing outdoor enclosure with more room to roam and climb. Both keep your cat safe outdoors - choose based on your space and how much room you want to give.

Bottom line

Our top pick is the PiuPet Cat Net Wire-Reinforced (our score 9.2/10) - A practical cat enclosure (catio, metal wire, 4m x 3m) for a happier, tidier home..