How to Build a Cat Enclosure with Chicken Wire

Below you will find a step by step guide on how to build a cat enclosure with chicken wire.

• Experience Required: Medium
• Tools Required: Protective gloves, Tape measure, Marker, Utility square, Wire cutters, Hammer, Hacksaw, Drill
• Materials Required:  Chicken wire, Timber battens (like two-by-fours), Staples, Screws, Hinges, Latch

Step 1) Design Scheme

• Measure your area and plan your chicken wire cat enclosure:

  • Allocate 1-2 square meters per cat.
  • Provide feline access via window, door or pet flap & include a door for yourself.

 

Step 2) Take the Measurements of Wood

• Grab your treated timber battens and a tape measure. 
• Measure and mark the pieces required to craft the structural frames of the enclosure.

 

Step 3) Cut Battens

• Use a stable, horizontal surface to lay the battens on as you cut them to size with a hacksaw. 
• Remember to wear protective gear throughout the process!

 

Step 4) Connect Batten Pieces

• Make sure the angles are precise by using a utility square.
• Alternatively use glue to connect the battens with wood, then secure with screws and drill. 
• Pre-drilling and countersinking your joins will make the finish more secure.

 

Step 5) Build Frameworks

• Stick to your design plan and complete step 4 to make all required wooden frames.
• Ensure the backside of the enclosure stays open for doorway access, and leaving space for an exterior door if needed.
• Also, build a roof frame if choosing an open mesh design.

 

Step 6) Measure & Cut Netting

• Lay the wire mesh on the frames, ensuring it overlaps the wood. 
• Cut along the wood to allow space for attaching with staples.

 

Step 7) Secure Netting to Frames

• Use staples spaced at most 15cm apart and hammer them into the wood to attach the netting to the frames. 
• Ensure the back side remains open for easy access for your pets.

 

Step 8) Secure Back Frame to Wall

• Depending on the construction materials of the house, you may require various wall fixings for this stage. 
• Ensure the open back of the enclosure is flush against the wall and securely attached.

 

Step 9) Attach Side Frames

• Connect the two side frames to the back frame using screws at least 4 points per side.
• Ensure that the mesh attachments are facing outwards.
• Remember to pre-drill and countersink your joins for a flush and secure finish!

 

Step 10) Secure Front Frame

• Continue with the previous step to secure the front frame to the two sides.

 

Step 11a) Build Roof Structure – Open (Mesh)

• Choose between weather-protective plastic or open mesh roofing.
• Proceed with steps 7-8 to install the roof panel and enclose the cat enclosure from the top.
• Ensure there is ample shade to shield your felines from UV rays if opting for this type of roofing.

 

Step 11b) Build Roof Structure – Closed (Plastic)

• Affix a batten to the back of the structure, then add several more perpendicularly on top to create a proper slope for water drainage.
• Cut and secure a plastic roofing sheet using roof screws to prevent water from entering the enclosure.

 

Step 12) Construct Door (if applicable)

• If your structure lacks interior access, add a door. Consider two entryways for convenience.
• Construct the door like the frame, but reinforce with diagonal braces.
• Attach mesh to the exterior to make it cat-proof.

 

Step 13) Secure Door (if applicable)

• If you’re not adding a door, skip this step.
• Attach three latches to the wooden frame using screws.
• Additionally, screw in a latch to secure the door closed.

 

Step 14) Inspect for Weak Spots

• Your cat enclosure should be complete.
• Ensure all sides and joins are properly attached, with no gaps for cats to escape.
• The back frame should be flush with the wall and securely attached, and the door should close properly.

 

Step 15) Furnish Your Cat Enclosure

• Enhance your pets’ outdoor experience with:
  • Climbing trees, steps, ladders, and DIY scratching posts
  • Hiding spots, beds, shelves and hammocks

 

DO’S AND DON’TS

• Avoid leaving food outside to deter animals;
• Provide fresh water and a litterbox;
• Ensure materials are comfortable and splinter-free;
• Choose pavement, wood, or grass for flooring;
• Include hiding spots and shade, while allowing sunlight for sunbathing.

 

FURTHER READING

• DIY Cat Proof Fence– Instructions on how to cat proof your fence
• Cutting Chicken Wire – Learn how to cut chicken wire using different tools
• How to Paint Chicken Wire – A guide showing you how to paint your mesh easily