Cat Proof Garden

The best way to cat proof a garden is to use physical containment systems such as fence-top barriers, cat enclosure fencing, or catios rather than relying on fence height alone. The most effective approach depends on the garden layout and the cat’s behaviour.

Yes. When designed and installed correctly, cat proof gardens are highly effective at preventing escapes while still allowing cats to enjoy outdoor access safely. Cat proof gardens a re a great way of sharing outdoor space with your cat without worrying about their safety.

Many cats will test boundaries, particularly confident or agile cats who have been familiar with roaming, and especially in the first few weeks after the introduction of a barrier. Effective cat proof gardens use secure barriers, protected corners, and careful layout planning. We recommend expert installation careful supervised access for the first couple of weeks while you and your cat are adjusting.

We recommend maintaining a clear distance of at least 1.8 metres between the barrier and the highest potential jump-off point, such as raised ground, flower beds, or plant pots. This helps ensure that a cat cannot generate enough momentum to leap over the barrier.

ProtectaPet® systems feature modular, adjustable components, allowing cat owners to build the barrier height to suit their garden. This flexibility means our solutions can accommodate a wide range of existing boundary heights—or be used in gardens with no boundary at all, where freestanding cat enclosure fencing provides a secure alternative.

No. A well-designed cat-proof garden provides enrichment, exercise, and mental stimulation while significantly reducing outdoor risks. Many cats thrive when given access to a safe, controlled outdoor environment.

Research from the University of Lincoln has shown that a cat’s behaviour and overall welfare can be enhanced when they are provided with a controlled outdoor territory, supporting the benefits of secure outdoor access.

In most cases, planning permission is not required for cat proof garden systems in back gardens, particularly if they are non-permanent and do not exceed typical boundary heights. Local regulations may vary according to the council and so we always recommend consulting with your local authority.

Most gardens can be adapted to become cat proof using the right combination of fencing, enclosures, or attached structures. Open or hedged gardens may require freestanding cat enclosure solutions. Trees, gates, greenhouses and sheds can be cat proofed with the right know-how and materials.

Yes. Cat proof gardens are commonly designed for multi-cat households, often incorporating vertical space and multiple zones to reduce stress, tension and completion for resources to encourage harmony.