Many cat owners assume catios are only for houses with yards.
That’s not true.
Apartment catios are absolutely possible—you just need the right type.
Option 1: Balcony Catio
If your building allows it, balcony catios can work. But they:
Require more space
Often need landlord approval
Can be bulky
Option 2: Window Catio (Best for Most Apartments)
A window catio:
Attaches directly to a window
Doesn’t require a balcony
Takes up minimal space
Is often rental-friendly
For high-rise and small-space living, this is usually the most practical solution.
What to Check Before Installing
Lease rules about exterior modifications
HOA/building policies
Window type compatibility
Choosing a removable, modular system reduces friction dramatically.
The Easiest Way to Add a Catio to an Apartment
The simplest route is a purpose-built system designed specifically for apartment windows.
The Purrgola Window Catio was created to solve exactly this problem—giving indoor cats safe outdoor access without requiring a yard or permanent construction.
👉 See how the Window Catio works.