Picking the Right Pet Door for Your Home

brown dog sleeping on grey couch

As a pet owner, you know just how great being outdoors can be. Outside is the perfect place to let your dog or cat roam, explore, and burn off some of that extra energy. However, let’s face it: If you have a pet that just loves going in and out, you know how annoying it can be to get up to constantly let your pet outside and back in again.

This is one of many scenarios that having a pet door can solve. With the right cat or dog door, your pet can go in or out as they please. This not only absolves you from your duty as personal doorman, but also allows your pet to relieve themselves, even when you aren’t home.

So, how do you choose the right product when there are so many to choose from? Here’s everything you need to know about how to choose a pet door so that you choose one that not only fits your pet but your home as well.

Measure Your Pet

cat using cat flap and comes out independently.

Before getting too thick into the details of choosing a pet door, the first thing you’ll want to do is measure your dog or cat. Your pet’s size ultimately determines the size of the door that you’ll need to purchase.

Consider your pet’s height as well as width. If you have a smaller dog or cat, you’ll want to choose a door that is the right size to accommodate your pet. The same stands true for large and even extra large pets.

Once you have these numbers, you can start looking more into choosing a pet door that will work best for you and your furry family member.

Consider the Conditions

There are many factors you’ll want to consider when figuring out which kind of pet door best meets your needs. Once you’ve figured out what size pet door you need, the next step is to take a step back and consider your conditions. Think about details such as:

  • Are there small children in the home?
  • How many pets need to use the door?
  • Are you worried about wildlife coming indoors?

If you have a smaller dog or cat and are not worried about weather, a pet door designed for screens may be ideal. Screened pet doors are simple and easy to install and are generally best reserved for smaller pets. You aren’t likely to find a screened pet door that will accommodate a larger animal.

For pet owners who live in hot or cold climates, an insulated pet door is ideal. These doors have a layer of insulation that seals shut. This type of pet door usually offers UV protection, as well, and is made to be wind-resistant. This way, the outside elements are kept where they belong: outdoors!

Choosing the Right Kind of Pet Door

Jack russel puppy on white carpet.

Dog and cat doors are available in a wide variety, so you’re sure to find one that fits your pet and your home. Whether you want your pet to enter and exit through a patio door or a screened porch with a wooden door, there’s sure to be a pet door that is designed to fit.

One of the simplest and cheapest pet door options is the door flap. This type of door has one or two flaps that your pet passes through. The flap size is dependent on the size of your pet, to ensure that your furry friend has enough room to easily and safely pass through the flap.

However, flap pet doors can be flimsy and are more prone to breaking. Aluminum flaps add more durability but expand and contract based on outdoor temperatures. This can cause the flap to become warped and unusable. The good news is that flaps can generally be replaced pretty quickly and easily.

Choose a Quality Installer

Looking to have a pet door installed in your home? Look no further than Roy’s Screen Service. We specialize in installing pet screen doors throughout the Los Angeles area.

Our doors are made with top-of-the-line materials, including aluminum and dual-action rubber, to allow your pet to safely exit and enter the home. Our doors also use embedded magnets to ensure the door stays closed, which keeps out dust, insects, critters, and drafts.

Want to learn more about our pet door products and the other services we offer? Contact our team today at 310-276-7360.