NYT Connections · September 10, 2026 ·
Why Is CATIO in NYT Connections?
CATIO belongs with AIR CONDITIONER, CLOTHESLINE and FLOWER BOX in THINGS STICKING OUT OF A WINDOW. A catio is an enclosed outdoor space for a cat. The puzzle points to a window-connected catio: picture a screened cat enclosure projecting outside a home’s window.
CAT + PATIO → CATIO
Not every catio sticks out of a window. Understanding the particular kind the clue refers to is the missing step.
| Entry | The version to picture |
|---|---|
| AIR CONDITIONER | A window-mounted unit projecting outside |
| CATIO | A small enclosed cat space attached outside a window |
| CLOTHESLINE | A line extending outward from a window |
| FLOWER BOX | A planter mounted at the outside of a window |
Why now
CATIO appeared beside AIR CONDITIONER, CLOTHESLINE and FLOWER BOX in the September 10 puzzle. The window-mounted form makes the group fit.
The connection
Why here
How the window group works
| Entry | The version to picture |
|---|---|
| AIR CONDITIONER | A window-mounted unit projecting outside |
| CATIO | A small enclosed cat space attached outside a window |
| CLOTHESLINE | A line extending outward from a window |
| FLOWER BOX | A planter mounted at the outside of a window |
These entries fit through a recognizable use or form. The category does not require every air conditioner—or every catio—to be window-mounted.
More context
Context
What exactly is a catio?
A catio gives a pet cat enclosed outdoor space instead of unrestricted roaming. The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service explains the word as “cat patio” and describes access through a window, door or wall opening, including connections through a tunnel.
Some are small window enclosures; others are large walk-in spaces or freestanding structures. For this puzzle, picture the small window version rather than a whole enclosed patio.
Is CATIO a real word?
Yes. It is an established term for this kind of cat enclosure, not a spelling invented for Connections. Its blended name makes it easy to remember: a patio for a cat.
The reason it belongs here is more specific than that definition: the window-connected version can extend outside the house, just like the other objects in the group.
More from Connections
SEXTANT in the same September 10 puzzle: the hidden EXTANT ending
Evidence
Sources
- NYT Connections — September 10, 2026 puzzle data — The New York Times
The puzzle groups CATIO with AIR CONDITIONER, CLOTHESLINE and FLOWER BOX as things sticking out of a window.
- Catio = Cat + Patio — U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
Defines catio and describes different forms and window, door or wall access.