[jadeycat]

Hi,

I posted in the indoor/outdoor discussion link and Catman was gracious enough to let me start a new thread.

I'm doing a bit of market research for a new business start up - building cat enclosures (outdoor safe play rooms). This isn't advertising - just looking for feedback from the source. Please email me or post to let me know interest in a product like this.

They'll provide cats protection, but also give them extra outdoor exercise space - the litter box can be out as well. They'll have platforms to jump to, and these can be custom ordered for each home. Access is through a window or an installed kitty door with a lock in/out feature. There will also be a door on the exterior people can enter to clean up or play too.

We plan on building and installing locally, but will also make detailed plans available or can ship in prefabricated panels for easy assembly.

If you like this idea, think it stinks or have questions please email me or post and let me know.

Thanks much!

Jadeycat

 

[Bug]

sounds like a great idea to me. Where are you located? What would the price range be?

 

[Jeanie]

I think it's a wonderful idea. Of course you'd have to sell it locally, but you could sell the plans on the internet.

 

[jadeycat]

Hi and thanks for the feedback!

I am located in New Mexico so we can conceivable ship to quite a few states out West, and perhaps get some contracts with pet stores who knows? I think initial cost range installed for something around 6x4x6 can be installed for around $250 to $300. They can also be build so additions could be added on - longish tunnel or something fun - chasing area so anyone could upgrade as needed. kinda like you add on to those hamster things. Maybe we could develop some kitty accessories - cool toys they could play with.... Kinda like a cat jugle gym

 

[Bug]

New Mexico? :shock: awwww I was hoping you were located on the east coast. By the time the pet stores add on thier cost I wouldn't be able to afford it. :twisted: It really is a great idea, I know my kitty's would love it. >><< >><<

 

[jadeycat]

Hmmmm... Good point!

*scratching my head* I have ways to get around that. Yep! I could keep the cost the same everywhere and go without the petstores, but they'd have to catch on to make it happen. :?

 

[Louse76]

That sounds like a good idea to me! I'd definately give it some consideration, especially since my cat is indoors only and sometimes I feel he doesn't have enough to play with.

I'm curious about size and application onto windows etc also. And what would be inside of it? Would the floor be grass?

 

[Jeanie]

It would have to be secured to the ground so that a sudden, strong wind wouldn't knock it over. (or a smart alec neighborhood child).

 

[jadeycat]

Hi,

We're working on a proto type now. The unit will be attached to the house and also have a wire floor so nothing can dig under. Indoor outdoor carpet can cover that floor so things are cushy for the cats foot.

We'll have a basic unit you can buy and add on as needed or desired. A professional will come and install it, plus you can upgrade in increments. They can be installed in apartments (with permission) even if you have no balcony. We'll make a VERY versatile product. Plus do custom designs.

We want to donate a portion of profits to no kill shelters or other non profits for cats. We're looking around to see what no kills are here. There may be none. I looked at Catman's list and don't see anything in New Mexico, but I'm sure they exist. If you can offer info on a national .org please let me know.

I don't think I mentioned here, but we don't have cats now. We have trouble where we live - inside all the time with allergy problems for one of my children, my husband who can't deal with the litter box, and a few other things, BUT we all love cats and miss having them. When I had mine outside/inside I had no birds in the garden. So everyone had a different reason that cats didn't work for us. We'll build ours first - it'll be a huge custom and I'll post pictures if you like. My daughter and I plan to go adopt a couple cats from the locale animal shelter here. They have WAY too many and they aren't no kill. It seems the poor cats out number the dogs there.

Anyway - our product will ensure safety, affordability and fun!

Jill

 

[Wayne]

Generally cats are more fortunate than dogs in shelters, at least in this state. Although they may say on their website, "we are a kill shelter", due to the kind heartedness of some folks out there, many times they will be adopted by a cat-foster care-home instead of being euthanized. I know it is that way here in this little city.

 

[Jeanie]

That's good to hear, Wayne.