Most cats will, with a little patience. Some go straight through on day one; others want to inspect the new door for a while before they trust it. Both are normal.
Why cats like a door of their own
Cats like to come and go on their own terms, whether that is a garden prowl, a sunny spot on the patio or a look around at night. A cat door gives them that, and saves you from the endless in-and-out routine.
Why some cats are cautious
Cats are particular about new things in their space. A flap that moves, makes a noise or touches them as they pass can put a cautious cat off at first. That doesn’t mean they won’t use it, only that they need a slower start.
How to help a cautious cat
- Prop the flap open at first. Being able to see straight through, with nothing touching them, takes the surprise away.
- Keep familiar things nearby. Putting their food bowl near the door helps them link it with something they like.
- Use their favourite toy. Play near the door and let them follow it through.
- Praise them when they go through. Keep it calm and low-key.
- Don’t push them through. Let them decide when they are ready.
Older cats and cats with limited mobility
A senior cat, or one with arthritis, may find a high or tight opening hard work. When we fit the door we can:
- fit it lower, so it is an easy step through
- choose a wider opening for a larger or less agile cat
- use a flap that needs little effort to push
This works in fly screens as well: a screen cat door can be set at a lower height to suit your cat rather than a fixed standard.
How our pet door training works for cats
Pet door training is free with every installation. Cats get the same introduction as dogs, but cautious cats often need a slower start, so we match the pace to your cat and show you how to carry on at home.
If you have chosen a microchip cat door, we also show you how it works. Read how do microchip pet doors work? for more on setting one up.
Choosing the right cat door
We fit cat doors into glass sliding doors and windows, timber doors and fly and security screens. See all our cat doors and cat flaps.
To book, call 0421 575 229 or get a quote online.
