Standard or Deluxe: What’s the Difference?
Standard: Soft Vinyl Flap — Allows airflow
Deluxe: Cat Door + Plexiglass — Temperature control
BestWindowCatios are available in two models: Standard and Deluxe. Both provide the same safe outdoor space and durable construction, but they differ in how the cat enters the catio and how much outside air passes into the room.
The Standard Model uses a series of soft hanging flaps that form the entryway into the patio. Cats simply push through the flaps to move in and out. Because the flaps do not form a tight seal, a small amount of outside air will naturally pass into the room. Some customers actually prefer this, especially those who enjoy letting a bit of fresh outdoor air circulate inside. The flap entry is also extremely easy for cats to negotiate, which can make the Standard model a good choice for older cats or cats with mobility limitations.
The Deluxe Model features a clear plexiglass front panel with a built-in cat door. This design keeps outdoor air outside and indoor air inside, making it a better choice for homes in colder or hotter climates where temperature control matters. For most customers, the Deluxe model is the preferred option because it maintains the comfort of the home while still giving cats full access to the catio.
There is another small advantage to the Deluxe design. Because the air exchange between indoors and outdoors is minimized, cats experience the outdoor environment more directly when they step outside. And while we humans tend to think cats love the views, the truth is that scent is what really captures their attention. A cat’s sense of smell is extraordinary, and the catio becomes a constantly changing catalog of outdoor scents carried on the breeze.
Both models provide the same secure outdoor experience—it simply comes down to whether you prefer a little airflow from outside or a more sealed design that keeps indoor and outdoor environments separate.
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