It’s been a while since our last Mad Max Catio update! What started as a simple cat access project has evolved into a full RV cat access system. Here’s how our indoor feline navigation setup is coming together.
The Pass-Through Portal
Last update left us at the pass through between the shop and the house! We cut a hole in the wall to put a pocket door in so we have access to the shop from inside the bus, but can close it off when we need to. This will be perfect for days when we’re parked at Walmart just to shop – we can close them off in the shop while we unload!
Scabbers decided to photobomb during construction – we’re in the middle of remodel, so it’s a beautiful mess! 😂
Building Our RV Cat Access System
The cats needed a way to get up to the pass-through, so Zach built them their own “tree” to climb! He added a larger platform at the top so the cats had more room to turn around, and attached some grippy carpet so they could grab on when going up!
Strategic Cat Kitchen Placement
We decided to put the cat food area at the top of this location for two genius reasons: first, it encourages the cats to use their new highway, and second, our dog Louie LOVES cat food! 😡
The boys have mastered their tree navigation – they can traverse the limbs and even tightrope walk along the bookshelf edge like acrobats!
Heddy jumps from the kitchen area to the area above the bathroom. We don’t really want them over there, as it’s a storage area for things that don’t need cat hair on them! However, Heddy is still a work in progress – she has been spotted on the tree, but mostly not 🙁
The Mad Max Obstacle Course Challenge
Here’s where things get really interesting! The cats must complete this multi-step obstacle course to reach their litter box. It’s like American Ninja Warrior, but for cats!
Step 1: The Beam Walk
Navigate along a narrow beam – requires balance and confidence!
Step 2: The Crawl Space
Scabbers has to tummy crawl through this tight space – determination required!
Step 3: The Cabinet Leap
Jump onto the cabinet inside the shop – precision landing needed!
Step 4: Find the Secret Entrance
Locate the hidden entrance to the litter box cabinet – detective skills activate!
There’s also an alternative route from inside the shop for cats who prefer the scenic route! The boys have been spotted using both paths. Our RV cat access system keeps them safe while giving them freedom to move around their home.
Success! Mission Accomplished 🎯
The litter box is currently on the bottom shelf as we gradually acclimate them to the final drawer location. It’s all about making the transition as stress-free as possible!
Bonus Features Added!
We added a cat door for them to get outside too! It can be kept locked if we don’t want them outside during travel. This connects to their path inside the cabinet system, accessible from the top shelf!
🎬 Coming Soon: The Full Obstacle Course Video!
Stay tuned to watch our cats navigate the entire Mad Max Catio system from start to finish!
Future Phase Plans
We’re still working on the final touches! The current “rug slide” exit system is temporary (obviously! 😹), and we’re planning to clear the back deck area for dedicated cat play zones. Maybe even add a cat tree out there!
There’s definitely more training needed – they still need to master that cat door situation. But hey, Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither was the ultimate catio system!
🚀 Next Episode: Mad Max Catio Phase 3
The adventure continues… stay tuned for the next phase of our epic cat highway expansion!