Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to install an enclosure?
One side of a house or small patio will take a day and a half, while a large enclosure encompassing whole back yard including post hole digging and large amounts of ramps may take a week or more. It really depends on many factors.
Do we install pet doors into windows or doors?
We do not currently source or supply pet doors although If you have purchased a slot in full door or security screen type pet flap insert we would be happy to install it for you. If you require a glass insert pet door you should contact a glazier.
What are the rates of your services?
We endeavour to build a complete quote for you including labour and materials although we use a general rule of thumb of $75/hr for labour, this is generally well priced for any trades person in this area. Materials are billed at our wholesale prices. Materials are quite inexpensive for basic cat enclosures as most installations only require some fixings and netting. As the design becomes more complex like adding free standing posts, wooden gates and luxuriously fitted enclosures the cost will increase.
What type of warranty do you provide?
2 years on netting, structural and workmanship. A ripped net due to damage by an over active pet or falling trees are not covered. The nets we use will handle cats climbing on them.
What are your terms and conditions?
40% down payment upon acceptance of quote to lock in material costs and 100% of the balance upon completion.
What type of materials do you use?
All fixings are corrosion resistant stainless or galvanised steel. Netting is black UV stabilised 19mm cat netting pre-stretched and heat set during production ensuring high knot strength and mesh uniformity (your cat can climb on this and it will not tear). Poles ideally should be treated pine/, coated or galvanised steel.
How do I access the enclosure?
The most common and easiest entry customers install is a zipper gate as they are cheap and easy to install and look quite attractive too. Other options are coated aluminium frames with netting attached or a complete wooden gate. Aluminium netted gates are the preferred choice for an area that requires accessing on a daily basis like a washing line or thorough-fare as they have an easy to use latch accessed from both sides with self closing hinges.
How does your free quote work and is there a fee involved?
We are happy to offer a free measure and quote although due to the large distances of this area we ask if it’s possible to take a video of the area you want enclosed, we are usually able to quote over email, afterwards if the install is complicated we can progress to a site visit.
To obtain a quality video: Stand about 3m away from were the net will fix too and slowly move around in a circle getting a video of all areas were you want the net to be. For example along the fence line, then down the fence, then up the wall, then under the eaves and along the roof facia. Don’t forget to get some over view images of the whole area while standing back.
We will also need a description (including rough measurements) of the area to be enclosed. Height, lengths and widths of each wall and roof sections.
We understand that sometimes a discussion of what you require is needed, please give us a call to discuss and afterwards if you still require a free site visit we will attend your property.
You can contact us via the “Contact Us Form” and we will reply ASAP or email us at “southwestcatenclosures@protonmail.com”.
Can I build a stand alone cat run?
If you want to partially attach the enclosure to your house or completely build a stand alone one we can install poles into the ground to mount the nets too. Food garden nets which keep the birds out are often built like this using large poles and attaching a net which covers the garden.
Where are the best places to install platforms inside the enclosure?
Cats like to look at the world going by as they are very curious creatures. Anywhere they can get a good view of the outside world is ideal. Were happy to discuss this with you.
Can I attach to a boundary fence?
Yes they are common property as long as the integrity of the fence is maintained and nothing over hangs into the neighbours property.
Do you fix to an asbestos fence?
No, due to occupational health and safety regulations, although there are other options we can arrange like installing a parallel railing to attach the net too.
Can I still build a cat enclosure if I have a dog?
Yes no problems although we will have to take into consideration the size and temperament of the dog and possibly install a stronger reinforced section at ground level.
Do I need a building permit to build a cat enclosure?
No, the building regulations allow you to build an open permeable enclosure on your property without council approval except in the circumstances were the enclosure would be a stand alone substantial structure which is non permeable.
What are the government regulations regarding cats?
If you would like to know more directly from the state governments website the information is here. There are no regulations saying you must keep your cat contained although all councils in this area suggest and encourage you not to let your cat roam for its own safety and the resident wildlife’s safety.
What areas do you service?
Bunbury to Augusta although we are happy to discuss driving further out although driving time would be included in the quote.
Online Enclosure Toy Suppliers.
There are many great accessories or toys your cat would enjoy. These are some great websites to find some online purchases to give your cat a playful and enjoyable life inside there cat enclosure.
https://catnets.com.au/
https://www.backyardcatenclosures.com.au/
https://www.mypetwarehouse.com.au/cat-toys