08/23/2026
πΎ PORTLAND HAS A NEW BRIDGE... AND IT'S FOR CATS! ππ±
When Multnomah County Animal Services found out the 2026 Cats Safe at Homeβ’ Catio Tour includes a custom, mini-Hawthorne Bridge built for cats, we called in the experts. The Multnomah County, Oregon Transportation Division did an unofficial structural inspection and can confirm: "Pawthorne Bridge" is structurally sound for resident cats to use, and for Catio Tour attendees to enjoy from below!β¨ The Pawthorne Bridge is the newest, non-operating vertical-lift bridge for cats in Portland, Oregon. Designed and built by Thom Arboren of Arboren_Cathedrals at the home of his inlaws, Debra and David, the wood and steel-mesh Pawthorne bridge serves a Portland Metropawliton group of 4 cats - Fezzik, Puck, Adder, and Earl Nimbus the Gray - where they can safely enjoy the outdoors without risk of harm to either the cats or local wildlife.
Pawthorne Bridge construction was funded entirely by the homeowners, and not through public bond measures or the new Bird Tattoo Tax. It serves as an imaginative and awe-inspiring example of catio construction to enrich and protect cats- one of many featured in the 2026 Catio Tour.
Want to see Pawthorne Bridge in person? Catch it on this year's Catio Tour, featuring imaginative catios all across Southeast Portland!
π When: Saturday, September 12, 2026 | 10 a.m. β 2 p.m.
πWhere: Self-guided tour around SE Portland
π Tickets: $15 per person
πΏ Presented by: Catio Craftsman | Hosted by Feral Cat Coalition of Oregon & Bird Alliance of Oregon
Catios keep cats happy with fresh air while protecting local birds and wildlife. Get inspired for your own backyard!
π Register now: https://www.catssafeathome.org/tickets/2026catiotour