New apt. balcony

Hey everyone,

I'm moving into a new apartment next week, 7th floor. There's a balcony in my room which is the only window in the room, no screen door. I'm wondering if anyone has tips re: cats and balconies. I can't remember how far apart the bars on the balcony are, I'll grab a photo as soon as I can. My cat is pretty big (which is a separate issue I actually could also use some tips about, but that's for another day), so I suspect she can't actually fit between the bars. But I'm still pretty nervous.

I also can't remember how high it is so I'll have to see if it's something she can jump. But I'm wondering a) if I'm right to be concerned or if I'm being overly-anxious and b) how best to "cat-proof" the balcony.  For my purposes, I think the ideal solution would be one that allows her to access the balcony when I have it open, because I will probably want it open often enough (always when I'm home) that keeping a constant eye on her will be tough to manage. Otherwise, a screen door type solution that keeps her off while allowing air in would be my second preference. I don't think a "catio" type solution where she has to be placed in an outdoor enclosure would work so well. 

So, I appreciate any tips you all have. Hope you're enjoying your summers!

Best,

Aj

Ajjaxx said:

 
 My cat is pretty big (which is a separate issue I actually could also use some tips about, but that's for another day), so I suspect she can't actually fit between the bars. But I'm still pretty nervous.

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Cats don't have shoulderblades like we do, so unfortunately they can fit into many narrow spaces that we wouldn't have thought possible. That's not helping what you want to hear, I know. 

I don't have experiences with high rise balconies, but we have many threads in the past from other members, perhaps they have some ideas you could use:

http://www.thecatsite.com/newsearch?search=cat+balcony

Does the door slide open? If so there are mesh screens you can fit between the open door and door frame to let air in but keep pets from getting out. Something like this: http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=3261+1893+3353&pcatid=3353

If the door swings open like a regular door, then I'm not sure how you would keep the cat from getting out to the balcony other than keeping the bedroom door closed whenever the balcony door is open. Can the apartment management office put in a screen door?