Imagine this: you’re cozy on the couch, watching your favorite show, when you hear that familiar, insistent meow at the back door. Your furry friend wants in—or maybe they want out! If you’ve ever dreamed of giving your cat the freedom to roam safely without constantly playing doorman, then you know the struggle is real.
Choosing the perfect exterior cat door can feel overwhelming. You worry about security, energy efficiency, and whether the door will fit your home’s existing structure. Will it keep out neighborhood strays or unwelcome wildlife? These concerns often stop loving pet owners from installing the very solution they need for happier cats and calmer owners.
But what if we told you finding the right fit is easier than you think? This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down the best types of exterior cat doors, explain what features truly matter, and show you how to install one confidently. Get ready to discover the perfect, secure portal for your feline explorer!
Top Exterior Cat Door Recommendations
- 4 Switching Modes: Depets cat door interior door has four independent models to lock with switches - swing out only, in only, both in and out, and fully locked, easy control of your pet's in and out
- Applications: Outer size: 9.25" x 9.92" x 2.16"(W x H X D), Inner size: 7.08" x 7.48"(W x H), Cut-Out Size: 7.7" x 8.3" (W x H). This cat door exterior door is for cat lighter than 17.64 lb and waist circumference shorter than 23.62"
- Easy To Install: Complete instructions included, you can easily install our doggy door in windows, doors, cupboards etc.
- Thoughtful Design: Transparent flap let pet see through the pet door. Exterior screen is water resistant. Brush strip reduces noise from the door closing
- Assured Quality: Made of ABS plastic, weather-resistant, the surface of this window cat door is smooth and durable
- Medium Size: Outer Size: 7.5" x 7.8" x 2" ( W x H X D); Inner size: 5.9" x 6.3" ( W x H) ; Cut-Out Size: 6.3" x 6.7" (W x H); Fit Cats up to 15 lbs (with a waistline less than 15")，Suitable for any wall or door that is up to 50 mm thick
- Medium Cat Door: A great solution to give your cat access to any interior room, while giving you complete control. Great for accessing to the bedroom or the litter box when kept behind closed doors to keep the dog out
- Thoughtful Design: Transparent flap let pet see through the door. Exterior screen of the cat door is for water resistent. Brush strip reduces noise from the door closing
- Easy To Install: Complete instructions included, make you easily install in windows, doors, cupboards etc
- 4 Switching Modes: Switches-swing out only, in only, both in and out, and fully locked, easy control of your pet's in and out
- 4 WAY SWITCH MODE --- The pet door could be adjusted by the Red and Green switches with tabs to 4 modes: out only, in only, both in and out, and fully locked, easy control of your pet's in and out
- SIZE & APPLICATION --- Outer Size: 9.8" x 11" x 2.15"(W x H x D), Inner size: 7.9" x 8.7"(W x H), Cut-Out Size: 8.3" x 9.5" (W x H); fits doors and thin walls, for cats and doggie under 27.54 lbs and with a waist smaller than 24.8 inches
- SAFE & THOUGHTFUL --- The transparent flap let pet see through the door. Exterior rain seal is for waterproof. Brush strip eliminates noise from the door closing
- EASY TO INSTALL --- Complete instructions included, make you easily install in windows, doors, cupboards, panels and walls etc
- EXCELLENT QUALITY --- Made of ABS material, weather-resistant, the surface is smooth and durable
- Extreme Temperature Protection: The PetSafe Extreme Weather Pet Door triple-flap thermal barrier is rated 3.5x more energy efficient than standard doors, helping maintain the indoor temperature
- Easy DIY Installation: Fits most exterior doors made of wood, panelling, PVC, or metal sized 1 5/8" - 2 1/4" thick; includes snap-on locking panel for secure flap closure and controlled pet access
- Versatile & Durable Pet Door: With a paintable plastic frame, this door can be customized to match your home's design; available in three sizes to best fit your pet
- Global Mission, Local Care: With U.S. roots and worldwide reach, PetSafe delivers vet- and trainer-recommended solutions and exceptional customer support to create fields of joy for pets
- 25 Years of Trust: Since 1998, PetSafe has created safe, innovative, and trusted products that bring joy, enhance pet lives, and support the lifelong bond between pets and their families
- Easy DIY Installation: The PetSafe Plastic Pet Door is easy to install in wood, PVC, metal, or paneled doors 1/16" - 2" thick, perfect for quick setup in interior or exterior doors
- Durable & Customizable: This rust-free, paintable plastic frame comes with a smooth swing, weather-resistant flap for long-lasting, pet-friendly performance that can be personalized to match your home
- Secure & Versatile Design: For peace of mind, choose when your pet comes and goes with the included lockable slide panel; small flap size has dimensions 5 1/4" W x 8 1/8" H for pets up to 15 lb
- Global Mission, Local Care: With U.S. roots and worldwide reach, PetSafe delivers vet- and trainer-recommended solutions and exceptional customer support to create fields of joy for pets
- 25 Years of Trust: Since 1998, PetSafe has created safe, innovative, and trusted products that bring joy, enhance pet lives, and support the lifelong bond between pets and their families
- CONVENIENT LOCK --- The knob-style switch is 4 way rotary, you can easily rotate it to 4 modes with the arrow and icons to control your cat's access options: in only, out only, in and out freely, totally locked
- IMPROVED WEATHER-PROOF BRUSH STRIP --- The fixed groove with snap tabs holds the brush strip securely. It helps reduce noise and keeps out rain, wind, and pests
- THOUGHTFUL SCREWS --- Includes 16 screws (8 short, 8 long). Use a mix of both to avoid cracking. Adjust the screws based on the depth of your door or wall
- EASY TO INSTALL --- Comes with step-by-step instructions and installation presentation video for you reference. Take care of notice and prepare necessary tools, Cut the tunnel to fit your installation needs
- MEDIUM SIZE --- Outer dimensions: 7.56" x 8.46" x 2.17". Inner dimensions: 6.18" x 6.30". Fits cats with a waist under 15". It fits to being installed to interior doors, exterior doors, walls, windows, cupboards, etc
- Hands-Free: Give your furry friends true independence with this wall cat door, allowing pets to freely come and go on their own schedule — no more anxious waiting at the door or disrupted routines.
- Sturdy Steel Construction: Built with rust-proof steel framing, this cat door for wall withstands aggressive chewing, clawing, and decade-level wear — ideal even for powerful breeds.
- Fits Any Wall: Accommodating walls 4" to 8" thick (brick/drywall/wood), this pet door's 13 9/10" x 9 2/5" frame and 9 1/4" x 6 1/2" opening comfortably fit pets up to 22 lbs. Its neutral white finish blends seamlessly with any decor.
- All-Weather Defense System: Engineered for extreme conditions, our kitty door features double magnetic flaps and dual sliding lock panels that create an impenetrable seal against rain, wind, and snow while reducing HVAC costs.
- 3-Mode Safety Control: Secure your home via sliding panels: Full Open for free access, Full Lock for security, or Partial Open to contain pets while allowing airflow—all on one pet door for wall.
- PET ADVENTURE: Unleash the potential of the PetSafe Big Cat petdoor, a revolutionary gateway that offers your pet the freedom to explore their surroundings. This cat pet door is not just a passage, but a key to adventure for your pet, accommodating both cats and small dogs in multi-pet households.
- 4-WAY PUSH-TO-TURN LOCK: Experience the power of control with this unique cat door for both interior and extreior doors, featuring a 4-way Push-&-Turn locking mechanism. Making this the only pet door that requires you to push and turn between four settings: locked, unlocked, in-only, and out-only
- QUIET SOFT-CLOSE FLAP: GentleClose tech gives your cat (and their tail) plenty of time to make it through the flap before it quietly and slowly closes. This eliminates unnecessary noise, maintaining a serene environment while ensuring your pet's safety.
- PERFECT FOR INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR DOORS: Appreciate the versatility of these pet doors for cats and dogs, suitable for both interior and exterior doors. This locking pet door can be installed on any standard door in your home, allowing your pet to explore different areas while staying safe. (fits doors 1 to 2 in thick)
- DIY INSTALLATION: Enjoy the simplicity of DIY installation with these dog and cat doors, the perfect weekend project that saves on professional installation costs. These doggie and cat doors come with easy-to-follow instructions, so you can have the pet door up and running in no time, providing your pet with the freedom they crave.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Finding the Best Exterior Cat Door
Giving your indoor cat the freedom to explore the outdoors safely is a great idea. An exterior cat door makes this possible. This guide helps you choose the right one for your home and your feline friend.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, focus on these important parts. They make the door safe and easy to use.
1. Locking Mechanisms
- Multi-Point Locks: Good doors have locks with several settings. Look for options like “In Only,” “Out Only,” and “Fully Locked.” This gives you total control over when your cat goes outside.
- Security: A strong lock stops raccoons or other stray animals from entering your home.
2. Flap Design and Material
- Weather Sealing: The flap must seal tightly. This keeps out drafts, rain, and bugs. Look for flexible, durable flaps.
- Visibility: Some flaps are clear, so you can see if they are open. Others are solid for better insulation.
3. Size and Installation
- Cat Size: Measure your cat! The opening should be tall enough for your cat to pass through without crouching too low. A good rule is to measure your cat from the floor to the top of their head when standing normally.
- Installation Depth: Consider the thickness of your exterior wall or door. Does the kit fit your specific door or wall material (wood, metal, etc.)?
Important Materials Matter
The material of the door frame and flap affects how long it lasts.
Frame Durability
- High-Impact Plastic: This is common. Ensure it is UV-resistant so sunlight does not make it brittle and crack over time.
- Metal Frames (Aluminum or Steel): These offer the best durability and security, especially for doors installed in high-traffic areas.
Flap Longevity
The best flaps use flexible, durable materials like heavy-duty vinyl or rubber. Cheap plastic flaps tear easily or become stiff in cold weather, making them hard for your cat to push open.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all cat doors are made equal. Pay attention to these details.
Quality Boosters:
- Insulated Panels: High-quality doors often include a secondary panel that snaps over the opening during winter. This significantly reduces heat loss.
- Magnetic Closure: A strong magnet at the bottom of the flap snaps it shut firmly. This prevents the wind from blowing the door open.
Quality Reducers:
- Flimsy Flaps: If the flap feels thin or floppy, it will likely fail quickly or let in more drafts.
- Difficult Locking: If the manual lock is hard to slide or tricky to align, you will stop using it, lowering your home’s security.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you will use the door every day.
Installation Difficulty
Some doors are designed only for wooden doors, which are easier to cut. Installing a door in a metal door or a brick wall requires specialized tools and might need a professional installer. Read reviews to see how hard the actual installation process is.
Magnetic vs. Electronic Doors
- Magnetic Doors: These are simple and affordable. They only open for cats wearing a special magnetic collar tag. They are great for single-cat households.
- Electronic (RFID) Doors: These are the most secure. They read your cat’s microchip. This means no collar tag is needed, and no stray animals can get in. They cost more but offer the highest peace of mind.
If you have multiple pets, or if you worry about neighborhood strays, the electronic microchip door is the superior choice. For a single, indoor/outdoor cat, a sturdy magnetic door works well.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Exterior Cat Doors
Q: What is the right size opening for my cat?
A: Measure your cat’s widest point (usually shoulder width) and add about one inch for comfort. The flap height should let your cat walk through without bending its back too much. Always check the manufacturer’s recommended minimum opening size.
Q: Can I install a cat door in a metal exterior door?
A: Yes, you can. However, cutting metal requires a metal-cutting jigsaw blade and extreme care. Plastic doors are easier to install in wood doors. Metal door installations often take longer.
Q: Do cat doors let in cold air during winter?
A: Standard, cheap doors let in drafts. High-quality doors use weather stripping around the frame and a heavy, self-closing flap. The best option for cold climates is a door that includes a removable, insulated cover panel you can snap in place at night.
Q: How do I stop my neighbors’ dogs or wild animals from using the door?
A: This is a major concern. Use a door with a reliable manual lock that you engage every night. For the best protection, choose an electronic door that reads your cat’s microchip. These doors will only unlock for your specific pet.
Q: Are there special considerations for installing a cat door in a wall instead of a door?
A: Yes. Wall installations require a tunnel kit to bridge the gap between the inside and outside walls. You must ensure the installation is properly sealed against moisture and pests inside the wall cavity.
Q: How long does it take to train my cat to use the new door?
A: Most cats learn very quickly, often within a day or two. You can encourage them by taping the flap partially open at first, or by placing favorite treats on the opposite side of the door.
Q: What is the difference between a magnetic door and an RFID door?
A: A magnetic door uses a magnet on your cat’s collar to open the flap. An RFID door reads the microchip already implanted in your cat. RFID doors are more secure because the cat cannot lose the “key.”
Q: How durable are plastic cat door frames?
A: High-quality, UV-stabilized plastic lasts many years. Lower-quality plastic can become brittle from sun exposure and crack after a few seasons, especially in extreme heat or cold.
Q: Should I choose a door that locks in one direction only?
A: Yes, this is very useful. If you are home but want to keep your cat in for a few hours (like during a thunderstorm), you can set the door to “In Only.”
Q: What if my cat refuses to use the door?
A: Never force your cat through the flap. Try using positive reinforcement. Place enticing food or catnip on the outside threshold. If they still resist, you might have chosen a flap that is too stiff or too small.