Why Installing A Cat Door May Be Just What You (And Your Cat) Needs
Why Installing A Cat Door May Be Just What You (And Your Cat) Needs
Cat doors are a great way to keep your cat happy by allowing him to go free whenever he wants. Cats enjoy being able to keep tabs on their territory and if their territory includes both the inside and outside of your house, then having a cat door will enable him to access both areas easily. This gives your cat the freedom to go outside when he wants, as well as come indoors for warmth, love, and especially food.
Not only does your cat benefit from having a cat door installed, but it makes your life a little easier as well. You do not have to open up the door just to let your cat out early in the morning or whenever he is meowing you to do so.
But easy access is not the only benefit that cat doors provide. For example, some people have a cat and a dog but would like to give the cat an area in which he can go to and be away from the other pet. Having a cat door installed in your home will prevent the larger dog from following your cat into his private area as well as keeping him from rummaging through the cat's litter box.
How Does A Cat Door Work?
The most basic of cat door models are made of flexible plastic that flaps down and allows your cat to push on it, which gives him access to the other side. This flap will shut as soon as your cat crosses over and is remained lightly closed by magnets which helps to keep the heat or cold out. Keep in mind that a cat door may not be the best choice if you live in an area where the weather is extremely cold and/or windy.
When it comes to installing a cat door, several options are available. For example, I have a sliding glass door that leads to my backyard and I purchased panels that fit onto the end of the slider and installed the pet door into it. Another option is a full screen door that you install on your main door that contains the open flap. If you are not the do-it-yourself kind of person, you can always hire a handyman to install a cat door for you. This option leaves a wide range of custom built plans that you can choose from, depending on where you want your cat door placed.
Caution: Beware that your cat may not be the only animal that learns how to go in and out of your newly installed cat door. If you live in a wooded area or are located near a place where wild animals are known to roam, then you may want to be extra cautious about leaving your cat door open at all times. Possums, raccoons, and even stray cats have found their way into many homes through the easy access of a cat door.
