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Does your kitten always yearn to go outside? Or do they mostly stay outside but wish to be let in when they want to? In both situations, a cat door proves to be handy. Cat doors are useful tools that enable cats to move around as they please. They save you the effort of getting up from your comfortable couch to let the kitty in or out.
However, before purchasing one, you need to do your research. In this article, we will provide a buying guide to help cat owners make an informed decision about purchasing a cat door.
Why Should You Buy a Cat Door?
Simply put, cat doors can make life much easier for both your feline friend and yourself. Cats usually love to roam around freely. Oftentimes, cat owners struggle with a restless cat who is curious and cannot decide whether they want to go outside or stay indoors. Cat doors don’t hinder the movement of your kitten. The best part here is that there is no need to lock up the kitten all day.
Things To Keep in Mind Before Buying a Cat Door
Are you thinking about how to go about buying a cat door? If so, the following are a few factors that can help you choose the correct cat door for your little kitten:
Check the Size and Weight of the Cat
One of the essential guidelines for selecting a cat door is to consider the size and weight of the cat. Most cats can easily pass through small openings, so there’s no need to create a large opening that might compromise the door’s integrity and security.
Cat doors come in various sizes, typically ranging from 5 to 10 inches in both height and width. If you have a small cat weighing under 12 pounds, a smaller cat door is the best choice. On the other hand, larger cats weighing 12 pounds or more will require a larger cat door.
Take the time to measure your cat’s width and height, and then match these measurements with the inner dimensions of the cat door. Carefully check the dimensions of any cat door model before making your selection. You can also use your cat’s bed size as a reference when deciding on the cat door dimensions.
Sometimes, other pets may attempt to use the cat door to enter your home. In such cases, it’s a good idea to choose the smallest size that accommodates your cat comfortably, as this will limit the number of other animals that can squeeze through the cat door flap.
Hale Pet Door states that reputable companies in this niche offer a wide range of pet door sizes suitable for both big and small cats. Additionally, these doors can be easily installed by homeowners with some guidance and are available for various cat door models.
Check On the Safety
It is essential to keep in mind the safety of your cat, your family, and your home. Cat doors provide cats with the freedom and ease to move as they wish. They also help keep insects, other pets, intruders, and rodents out.
Cat doors are generally safe and easy to use. However, having said that you need to be mindful of purchasing the correct type of cat door to ensure that intruders and other animals cannot gain access to your house. Additionally, take the time to check if the cat door is robust enough to withstand several months of use.
Consider the Location
Not every cat door is the same, and neither is the setup of every house. It is possible to adjust cat doors for outdoor and indoor use, windows, sliding doors, and interior doors. When choosing a cat door, ensure that you consider the location where you wish to install it. Additionally, check the neighborhood and yard to make a more informed decision.
Weather Conditions
At times, pet owners become skeptical about pet doors due to weather conditions. If it’s freezing outside, you need to ensure that the cat door doesn’t result in any unwanted frost or cold. Similarly, make sure that cool AC isn’t escaping through the flap door during the peak of summer.
Considering the annual weather conditions when selecting a cat flap door for your area is essential. This will help you choose a cat door that lasts longer and experiences less wear and tear.
Cost
The cost of cat doors ranges from steep to affordable. Regardless of the price variations, cat doors are worth the investment as they can last for a long time. In some cases, these doors might even last a lifetime. Affordable cat doors typically range between $40 and $50, while higher-end options may cost between $200 and over $400.
Conclusion
Cat doors can make life easier for both pet owners and cats. However, selecting the best one for your home and cat may take some time, as you need to consider several essential factors, such as the cat’s size, weight, and the cost of the door. It’s crucial to carefully weigh and assess all these factors to make an informed decision and ensure that your investment is worthwhile.
When purchasing a cat door from a service provider, read customer reviews, as they can help you make a better decision. By following these guidelines, you can invest in a quality cat door that will provide you with the peace of mind and convenience you need as a cat parent.
