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What To Know Before Buying A Pet Door

Cat enters through pet doorIt isn’t always convenient to stop what you’re doing to open the door for a meowing cat or pawing dog. That’s why pet doors are a great option for owners who want to give their pets more independence.

Before providing your pet with an open door to the backyard, compose a mental checklist to make sure this is a safe option.

Could this door, for example, give wild animals access to your home? Also assess the yard for potential hazards that could make it dangerous for your pet to roam without your knowledge.

One Size Doesn’t Fit All 

German shepherd at dog doorOne of the first things to do is measure your pet to ensure the door you choose provides him ample room to fit through the opening. Give young pets room to grow. Keep resistance in mind since cats and small dogs may not have the strength to push through a weighty flap or may be intimidated by it.

You’ll also need to decide whether you want to install a temporary or permanent door and what your budget will be for this project.

There are a wide range of doors that cost as little as $20 up into the hundreds. Choices in wood, plastic and metal include magnetic, electronic, chew resistant, storm proof and security reinforced. Then there are the accessories such as draft stoppers, chargers, tunnels, locks and keys. Doors should also feature security panels to lock pet doors.


Pet doors can be incorporated inside existing doors and, for cats, in windows.



Before you start shopping, pick some options for placing the door. Doors can be incorporated inside existing doors and, for cats, in windows. Next, measure the size of the door and the track. Consider the weather in your area, too. You might need to purchase some insulation to prevent a drafty pet door from adversely affecting your heating or cooling bill.  

Pet Door Options

  • Dog doorConventional pet doors usually just consist of installing a frame and flap inside a door.
  • Panels with a pet door at the bottom can be mounted onto the track of a sliding glass door. These are really simple to install and aren’t permanent so they’re terrific for renters. Panels come with locks so the security of the door isn’t compromised. You can also choose from different pane thicknesses for insulation benefits.
  • Pet doors in windows are ideal for cats. A panel with a pet door in the bottom fits into the track similar to the version that can be used with sliding glass doors. These are also idea for renters because you don’t have to permanently modify doors or walls.
  • Gadget inclined owners might prefer electronic pet doors. These doors are equipped with sensors that detect when the pet is within a few inches via a corresponding collar.
  • Consider installing a small pet door into a screen that pets can use when the patio door is open. Another option for owners is simply adding a pet door from the house to the garage where food or a liter box might be kept.

Once you have installed the pet door of your choice, introduce your dog or cat to the new feature, encouraging him to venture out by placing a treat on the other side. Praise and a little TLC will also assure your four-legged companion that his new pet portal is totally meow-velous.

Return to the VPI Pet HealthZone >> 

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Bonnie's Story

BonnieAfter some rainy weather, Bonnie decided to relieve her cabin fever by wandering off for three hours. When she got back, she was shaking and her eyes had turned blue. Read More >>

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