Inside Dean’s Dungeon: A Custom Catio in Thornton, Colorado

Have you ever wondered how a once-feral cat adapts to indoor life? Well, wonder no more! In this article, we’ll explore one of our custom catios built in Thornton, Colorado—nicknamed Dean’s Dungeon.

Dean is a 16-year-old cat with a unique story. From surviving the streets to settling into a loving home, he has experienced it all—battling for food, finding shelter for naps, and later adjusting to an indoor life with fresh meals (served on time, of course) and endless cozy spots to rest. And now? He has a massive custom catio to call his own.

The Vision Behind Dean’s Dungeon

Of course, Dean’s family knew that a catio was essential—especially after noticing his constant desire to explore the outdoors, missing the life he once had. But it wasn’t just for Dean. They also wanted their other three cats to experience the enrichment and benefits that a catio provides, allowing them to live their best lives.

When it came to the vision, Dean’s family knew they wanted more than just a cage in the backyard. They wanted a catio that seamlessly complemented their existing deck and pergola roof—a design that felt intentional and integrated into their home.

For placement, they knew the catio had to be attached to the house, giving their cats the freedom to come and go as they pleased. The perfect spot? On their deck, beneath the pergola roof—providing the cats with both sun and shade while offering protection from Colorado’s unpredictable weather.

Specific requirements

With four cats, space was essential. A small catio simply wouldn’t cut it—they needed ample room for all four cats to enjoy the space simultaneously while eliminating territorial issues.

They wanted more than just outdoor access; they needed a catio designed for activity and enrichment—a space where their cats could run, climb, and jump freely.

Design & Features

The final result? Dean’s Dungeon is 10 feet long, 5 feet wide, and 7 feet 4 inches tall, offering a total of 50 square feet of catio space. It features multiple levels, shelves, and ramps, providing plenty of room for Dean and his brothers to run, jump, and climb to their hearts’ content.

Materials Used

Deans Doungeon was built using pressure treated lumber, Galvanized Corrugated Metal Roof, and PVC coated steel critter fencing.

• Sturdy Framework – Made from pressure-treated lumber, the structure is resistant to moisture, rot, and pests. The wood is painted for added protection and a polished look.
• Weatherproof Roofing – A galvanized corrugated metal roof, slanted for drainage, shields the catio from rain, snow, and harsh sunlight, keeping it comfortable year-round.
• Secure Enclosure – Critter fencing ensures safety by keeping predators out and allowing for maximum airflow and visibility so Dean can enjoy fresh air and a full view of his surroundings.

Interactive & Enrichment Features

Understanding the owners’ visions, we knew we had to create a perfect interior—not only functionally and aesthetically pleasing but full of features to satisfy the inner kitten inside their loving cats. We decided to add:

• Floor-to-ceiling scratching post: Made with cat-friendly materials, this feature allows Dean to stretch, scratch, and exercise naturally, keeping claws healthy and providing an engaging activity.
• Shelves and Ramps: Constructed from the same pressure-treated wood and painted for a sleek finish, these elements offer elevated resting spots and exploration opportunities.
• Cat hammock: Designed for relaxation, the hammock provides a soft and cozy retreat for Dean to lounge and observe his kingdom.
• Custom-built stairs: Specially designed for easy access to various levels, ensuring seamless movement within the catio.

Safety & Comfort

Safety was the first priority! By using high quality materials we guaranteed safety for Dean and his 4 brothers!

By using PVC coated steel critter fencing this ensures predators such as coyotes, birds of prey, and pesky raccoons cannot enter the catio without permission. This also safeguards Dean and his brothers from unwanted feral and stray cats who are jealous of this amazing catio.

Built with pressure-treated lumber and a galvanized corrugated metal roof, this catio is designed to withstand Colorado’s extreme weather conditions. The roof provides shade for Dean during the summer and protection from snow in the winter—though a little snow doesn’t faze Dean one bit!

Our clients opted not to include heating features , knowing their cats would enjoy the catio no matter the temperature.

The Building Process

Bringing Dean's Dungeon catio to life was an exciting project. From 3D concepts to construction, it took careful planning and expert craftsmanship.

Once the design was set, our team began building the freestanding structure. Everything was built on-site ensuring a precise fit.

In total, this catio took our team a total of 11 days to complete!

The Final Result & Cat’s Reaction

The end result? Nothing short of remarkable. What was once an unused space on their deck is now a beloved home for Dean and his three brothers!

With construction finally complete, it was time for the real test—introducing Dean to his new space. It was as if he knew this catio was built just for him. The moment the cat flap was opened, Dean bolted outside with excitement, then promptly lounged on the first shelf he laid eyes on.

As for his three brothers, it took them a little longer to realize that this space wasn’t just for Dean—it was for them too. But with time, they began to embrace the catio, and now they use it every day, enjoying the endless stimulation the outdoors has to offer.

Not only was Dean thrilled for his new home, but his owners had lots to say as well—expressing their joy: “I didn’t know how much my boys would actually use it, and they exceeded my expectations!”

Why Custom Catios Are Worth It

Dean's Dungeon is more than just a backyard addition—it’s a one-of-a-kind custom space that gives Dean and his brothers the freedom to experience the outdoors and all the stimulation it has to offer.

Dean’s Dungeon is proof that a well-built catio isn’t just a luxury—it’s an investment in your cat’s happiness. If you’re considering one for your own feline friend, now is the perfect time to create a safe, stylish space they’ll love for years to come!

Interested in getting a catio for your furry friend? Cat Topia services all 50 states and would love to offer you a free quote today! Remember your cat's life is only as big as you make it, so make it BIG!