Assembly instructions Cat-proof balcony

Cat-safe terrace

Protective nets are a compromise solution for indoor cats that go outdoors. No bird has to fear for its life in front of it, and no cat has to fear cars and poison bait behind it.

For many cat lovers, a secured terrace is the best middle ground: no uncontrolled outdoor access, but still fresh air, sun, and observation posts for curious four-legged friends.

The solution is an almost invisible cat net that can be installed between the posts of a pergola. It is important to secure not only the sides but also the top, so that the cat does not jump onto crossbeams or other structural elements.

Why a secured terrace makes sense

Living with neighbors is often fraught with conflict – and pets are regularly a point of contention. While dogs can usually be called back, a cat roaming through neighboring gardens can hardly be stopped.

At the same time, many owners want to offer their animals some freedom. A cat-safe terrace is therefore a sensible compromise: the cat remains protected, and at the same time, birds, neighbors, and road traffic do not become a risk.

Practical example

In the example described here, a terrace with a pergola and privacy screen was secured so that humans and cats can use the area together. Even a sliding door was integrated into the privacy screen, allowing direct access from the terrace to the garden.

The net is barely visible from the outside and can also serve as a climbing aid for climbing plants. According to the original instructions, the material costs for the net, bamboo poles, and fastening parts are around 250 euros for a terrace area of 17.5 m²; assembly takes about one day and requires no special prior knowledge.

What you need

  • Cat net
  • Bamboo poles or round wooden poles
  • Rust-proof or plastic-coated hooks
  • Screw eyes
  • Net ties or plastic-coated wire
  • Screws, dowels, and additional fastening material depending on the construction
  • Saw, screwdriver, and common tools

Assembly in individual steps

1. Attach hooks to the pergola posts

Attach hooks to pergola posts

Rust-proof or plastic-coated hooks are screwed into the upper and lower ends of the pergola posts. These will later serve as holders for the bamboo poles.

It is important to adapt the diameter of the hooks to the thickness of the poles. The thickest end of the bamboo pole is always decisive.

2. Prepare and insert poles

Saw bamboo poles to length

The bamboo poles or round wooden poles are sawn to the required length. Poles up to 180 cm long are often available in garden centers; longer versions can often be found at garden suppliers.

Then, the poles are pushed through the hooks. Alternatively, bent metal straps can be used as loops instead of hooks.

3. Temporarily hang the net

Temporarily hang the net

The net is initially only temporarily hung on the hooks.

Very important: Do not cut anything at this stage. Only when everything is in place and properly stretched should any overhangs be removed.

4. Thread the net through the poles and pull it taut

Thread net through bamboo poles

The bamboo poles are threaded through the net, first at the top and then at the bottom, and then pushed through the hooks.

Stretch the net as taut as possible. According to the instructions, the material will give a little over time, so it's worth starting with good tension.

5. Only cut off excess net at the very end

Align net completelyCut off excess net

Once the net is fully attached and properly aligned, any excess can be cut off.

This step should really only be done at the very end, so that there is still enough material for retensioning and aligning during assembly.

6. Seal gaps in the floor area to make them cat-proof

Push net under floor tiles

Any gaps between floor tiles and bamboo poles can be securely sealed by pushing the net under the tiles.

Especially in the lower area, no loopholes should remain, as even small openings can quickly become interesting for cats.

7. Place screw eyes along the posts

Screw screw eyes into the posts

To fasten the net lengthwise to the posts, screw eyes are screwed in at intervals of about 15 to 20 cm.

This allows the net to be fixed evenly and stably over its entire height.

8. Fasten net with net ties or wire

Fasten net to screw eyes with ties

The net is attached to the screw eyes with net ties or plastic-coated wire. The material is threaded through the net, pulled taut, and wrapped around the screw eyes.

Make sure everything is clean and securely fastened, so that wind loads do not loosen or distort the net later.

What you should pay special attention to

  • Securely close all loopholes.
  • Stretch the net as taut as possible, as it may give a little later.
  • Also secure the upper area so that cats do not jump onto crossbeams or beyond.
  • Plan for wind load, as gaps can otherwise quickly become larger.

Conclusion

With a little DIY skill, a terrace can be secured so that cats can enjoy fresh air without uncontrolled access to the garden or street. At the same time, the terrace remains suitable for everyday use by its human occupants.

This guide was originally published in NORA magazine.

BOY has been developing cat net mounting solutions for over 45 years - all products and instructions can be found at boy-katzennetze.de