Do I need planning permission for a catio in my garden?
In most cases, no. Catios under 2.5 metres tall in your back garden typically don't require planning permission under UK permitted development rules. However, if your catio covers more than 50% of your garden, is in your front garden, or you live in a listed building or conservation area, check with your local council first. Our standard models are designed to fall within permitted development guidelines.
How long does a catio take to assemble?
Most of our catios take 2-4 hours to assemble with two people and basic tools (electric screwdriver). We provide clear step-by-step instructions with diagrams, and many customers tell us assembly is easier than expected. All panels are pre-cut, and many parts come pre-assembled where possible. You don't need to be a DIY expert – just follow the guide.
Will my cat actually use the catio?
The vast majority of cats love their catios once introduced properly. Start by placing familiar items inside (bed, toys, treats) and let them explore at their own pace. Most cats adapt within a few days, especially once they experience the sights, sounds, and smells of the outdoors. Our customers regularly tell us the catio was "the best purchase" they made for their indoor cat.
Can I use a catio in winter and bad weather?
Yes, our catios are designed for year-round use in British weather. Many cats enjoy brief visits even on cold days. For winter comfort, you can add a sheltered cat house inside or cover part of the catio with a weather-resistant cover. The structure itself withstands wind, rain, and snow.
What size catio do I need for my cat?
For one cat, our small to medium catios (around 3ft x 6ft) work well. For 2-3 cats, we recommend our medium to large walk-in models (9ft x 6ft or larger). Multiple cats need enough space and perches so they can each claim their own spot. If in doubt, go larger – cats will use every inch of space, and you'll appreciate being able to walk inside for cleaning.
How long will a British-made catio last?
With basic annual maintenance (re-treating the wood every 1-2 years), our catios easily last 5-10 years, often longer. The treated timber resists mould, and the galvanised mesh won't rust in typical conditions. We offer a 2-year warranty on all components. Quality British construction means you're buying once, not replacing cheap imports every few years.
Can I rent and still have a catio?
Yes, many renters successfully use catios – you just need your landlord's permission first. Free-standing catios that don't require drilling into walls are usually acceptable, as they can be removed when you move. Get approval in writing, and emphasise that the catio is temporary and protects the property (prevents cat damage to doors, etc.). Our modular design means you can disassemble and take it to your next home.
What's included with my catio purchase?
Every catio includes all structural components (timber frame, wired mesh panels, door with secure latch), fixings and fasteners, and assembly instructions. We include everything you need to build and secure the catio – you just need basic tools.
Frequently Asked Questions
Got questions? We’ve got answers!
Do I need planning permission for a catio in my garden?
In most cases, no. Catios under 2.5 metres tall in your back garden typically don't require planning permission under UK permitted development rules. However, if your catio covers more than 50% of your garden, is in your front garden, or you live in a listed building or conservation area, check with your local council first. Our standard models are designed to fall within permitted development guidelines.
How long does a catio take to assemble?
Most of our catios take 2-4 hours to assemble with two people and basic tools (electric screwdriver). We provide clear step-by-step instructions with diagrams, and many customers tell us assembly is easier than expected. All panels are pre-cut, and many parts come pre-assembled where possible. You don't need to be a DIY expert – just follow the guide.
Will my cat actually use the catio?
The vast majority of cats love their catios once introduced properly. Start by placing familiar items inside (bed, toys, treats) and let them explore at their own pace. Most cats adapt within a few days, especially once they experience the sights, sounds, and smells of the outdoors. Our customers regularly tell us the catio was "the best purchase" they made for their indoor cat.
Can I use a catio in winter and bad weather?
Yes, our catios are designed for year-round use in British weather. Many cats enjoy brief visits even on cold days. For winter comfort, you can add a sheltered cat house inside or cover part of the catio with a weather-resistant cover. The structure itself withstands wind, rain, and snow.
What size catio do I need for my cat?
For one cat, our small to medium catios (around 3ft x 6ft) work well. For 2-3 cats, we recommend our medium to large walk-in models (9ft x 6ft or larger). Multiple cats need enough space and perches so they can each claim their own spot. If in doubt, go larger – cats will use every inch of space, and you'll appreciate being able to walk inside for cleaning.
How long will a British-made catio last?
With basic annual maintenance (re-treating the wood every 1-2 years), our catios easily last 5-10 years, often longer. The treated timber resists mould, and the galvanised mesh won't rust in typical conditions. We offer a 2-year warranty on all components. Quality British construction means you're buying once, not replacing cheap imports every few years.
Can I rent and still have a catio?
Yes, many renters successfully use catios – you just need your landlord's permission first. Free-standing catios that don't require drilling into walls are usually acceptable, as they can be removed when you move. Get approval in writing, and emphasise that the catio is temporary and protects the property (prevents cat damage to doors, etc.). Our modular design means you can disassemble and take it to your next home.
What's included with my catio purchase?
Every catio includes all structural components (timber frame, wired mesh panels, door with secure latch), fixings and fasteners, and assembly instructions. We include everything you need to build and secure the catio – you just need basic tools.
What People Are Saying...
Wonderful product & great company
It was such a great experience!
I was concerned that it would not be possible for me, an 82yr old lady,no good at DIY. to put it together - but it just needed a Philips screwdriver and it was easy!
They were so helpful with advice and instruction and wow - British made - wonderful - superb bird feeder and cheap!
J
J DEMIRDJIAN
Verified customer
Both the hutch and run are fantastic
We purchased the 6ft Chartwell Double Rabbit Hutch along with the 6ft Heavy Duty Rabbit Run with Burrow Portal and Tunnel for our two rabbits.
Both the hutch and run are fantastic – excellent quality, very spacious for our bunnies, and easy to clean.
Thanks again, James!
A
Adam Harris
Verified customer
Best hutches around
Best hutches and cat hideouts around I was led to believe when buying flat pack cages that they would all break in a month or so which is normally been the case.
But since using home and roost with them being A British made company everything Is a lot better quality all the panels are solid they are easy to put together but we definitely ordering more from you in the future❤️
R
Rosie Stubbs
Verified customer
Quality product, quality customer service!
We are extremely impressed with the service and products from Home & Roost. We were in urgent need of our new hutch, so upon speaking with customer service.
They arranged to send our hutch on an order separate to the rest of our ordered items, at no extra charge!.
A quality product, with quality customer service.
M
Micric
Verified customer
Thank you, Home and Roost, for making my bunnies happy.
Excellent professional service, quick, reliable. Also hutches good value for money.
I am the proud owner of 1 double 6ft chartwell block and 4 6ft single chartwell. Extremely robust and well made and so easy to put together.
A
Author's name
Verified customer
High quality item with high quality service
Initial issue with delivery date, but this was sorted quickly and professionally. The catio is well made and survived all the storms we’ve had in the recent months - it never moved.
The quality is much higher than others I’ve seen, I would definitely recommend purchasing from them. Excellent product and excellent service.
M
MsL
Verified customer
All Round Great Company
I ordered the wrong hutch (I wanted a double but ordered the 2 tier) and also without realising I ordered the wrong size vinyl flooring.
The warehouse staff anticipated I had made a mistake with the flooring size and sent the one I needed.
The after sales service was excellent with helping me get the hutch I wanted
C
Caroline Fry
Verified customer
High quality item with high quality service
Initial issue with delivery date, but this was sorted quickly and professionally. The catio is well made and survived all the storms we’ve had in the recent months - it never moved.
The quality is much higher than others I’ve seen, I would definitely recommend purchasing from them.
Excellent product and excellent service.
M
MsL
Verified customer
Couldn’t fail this company
Their website, delivery, instructions everything was beyond perfect. Note, wood is very strong so you will need a small drill. Can do by screwdriver though not recommended.
Hutch is beautiful and especially the design. Definitely using this company over pets at home from now on, wish I knew of you guys earlier!
S
St Ap
Verified customer
Great product and fantastic customer service
Brilliant to find a Made in Britain company. I can be pretty sure that the making processes will do least harm to the environment, help protect our wildlife and countryside, and support local UK businesses.
Something made in China probably fails to meet any ethical standards that we consider vital . Well done Home and Roost. I'll be back!
T
Tean Mitchell
Verified customer
Solid well-made hutch
The order process was straightforward - initially, the hutch was shown as back-ordered, but it was fulfilled and dispatched earlier than the website said.
Regular updates for the delivery - so I was able to reschedule to a convenient date.
B
Bluevalhalla
Verified customer
Excellent order and delivery service
Found exactly what I was hoping for having failed with most companies. Very easy to order and the package arrived quickly and safely. Easily assembled and is up waiting for its first Sparrow residents!
A
Amanda Harris
Verified customer
Great customer service
After finding out I had made an error on ordering, I was able to contact the company easily and the response was prompt. The problem was sorted out straight away and the product then arrived in good time. Thank you
D
Denise BUTLER
Verified customer
Don't look anywhere else you'll get everything you need here
Every internet interaction we've had with Home and Roost has been marvellous.
The website is clear, and efficient, for which we are really grateful to them. The customer service has been excellent.
A great company!
B
Boz Perry
Verified customer
Service and professionalism
Great product and keenly priced, swift dispatch, but let down by the courier, who managed to damage a key component.
A quick email exchange of some photos and Alan and his team had a replacement on its way the same day!!
I cannot fault the service and professionalism of Home & Roost.
A
Alan Hutchins
Verified customer
Returns and replacement - Super efficient
Unfortunately, the product arrived damaged, but customer service was excellent and better than expected!
They replaced and picked up the damaged one the next day!
The product is fantastic and of exceptional quality. Thankyou
A
Amy P
Verified customer
The best hutch company!
This is the best company I have ever had the pleasure of dealing with.
We have had multiple hutches from them, and they are really efficient and quick with dispatch.
We have also been given so much help and support from James he is always really friendly and more than happy to help.
I would highly recommend this company!!
A
Ali Watt
Verified customer
Great quality! Great customer service!
Having studied the best hutches on the market we decided to purchase the 6ft Chartwell hutch. Very well made, quality materials, lots of space for both of them and our bunnies seem very settled and safe…
All the products we have purchased are good quality and built to last.. These are built to be good for years to come!