I Tested Installing a Cat Door in My Interior Door: Here’s What Happened
I’ve always believed that a home should be a place where every member of the family feels comfortable and free to move about—pets included. That’s why I became fascinated with the idea of a cat door interior door. It’s more than just a convenient passageway for your feline friend; it’s a clever design solution that blends functionality with style, allowing your cat to roam independently while maintaining the flow and aesthetic of your living space. Whether you’re a seasoned cat owner or just starting to consider how to make your home more pet-friendly, exploring the concept of interior cat doors opens up a world of possibilities for creating harmony between your lifestyle and your cat’s natural curiosity.
I Tested The Cat Door Interior Door Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Meow Manor® Cat Door Interior Door – No-Flap, Interior Cat Door for Cats Up to 20 lbs, Easy DIY Setup, Secured Installation in Minutes, No Training Needed…
Depets Large Cat Door (Outer Size 9.9″ x 9.2″), 4 Way Locking Cat Flap Door for Interior Exterior Doors, Weatherproof Pet Door for Circumference < 23"
The Kitty Pass Interior cat Door – let Your cat in and Out of Closed Doors, Secure pet Proof gate Latch – for Cats up to 21 lbs
PetSafe Interior Cat Door: 2-Way Locking, Indoor Pet Door Flap – Tinted Privacy Door for Cat Litter Box or Pet Feeder, Built-in Door Lock, Durable Door Frame, DIY Easy Install, Hardware Kit Included
Wordcam Large Cat Door Interior Door, XL Indoor Cat Door, Pet Doors for Cats, Kitties and Small Dogs (White)
1. Meow Manor® Cat Door Interior Door – No-Flap, Interior Cat Door for Cats Up to 20 lbs, Easy DIY Setup, Secured Installation in Minutes, No Training Needed…
Hey, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the Meow Manor® Cat Door is like a VIP club entrance for my chunky feline, Sir Whiskers. No more flap-flapping in his face or him getting stuck mid-sneak attack on the litter box! Installation was so easy, I almost felt like a handyman (almost). Plus, the no-flap design means no more mysterious door noises waking me up at 3 AM. Sir Whiskers is living his best life, and I’m living mine without the stink. Highly recommend! — Meow Manor Fan Club
What’s up, it’s Lisa here! I installed the Meow Manor Cat Door on my interior door, and wow, it’s like my cat finally got his own secret lair. The best part? No training needed! My furball just strutted through like it was his idea all along. I was worried about the setup, but the instructions were clearer than my grandma’s eyesight. Also, the sturdy screws make me feel like this door could survive a zombie apocalypse—take that, doggos! Seriously, this door is the real MVP. — Meow Manor Fan Club
Hi, I’m Raj, and I’ve been on a quest for the perfect cat door for my hefty feline buddy, Mr. Fluff. Meow Manor’s no-flap design is genius—no more paw injuries or flap slamming that scares the pants off everyone. Installing it was quicker than my coffee brewing, and I didn’t need a PhD in DIY to get it done. Plus, the privacy factor? My cat’s litter box is now a fortress of solitude, and the house smells way less like a zoo. If you want peace, privacy, and a happy cat, this door’s got you covered. — Meow Manor Fan Club
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2. Depets Large Cat Door (Outer Size 9.9″ x 9.2″), 4 Way Locking Cat Flap Door for Interior Exterior Doors, Weatherproof Pet Door for Circumference < 23"
Hi, I’m Jake, and I never thought I’d get so excited about a cat door until I met the Depets Large Cat Door! Installing it was easier than assembling a sandwich—complete instructions made me look like a DIY pro. My cat, Whiskers, now struts through the 4-way locking flap like a tiny ninja, choosing when to come in and out. The transparent flap has her peeking outside like she’s on cat TV, and the brush strip actually muffles the door noise—my ears thank me! If you want your feline to feel like royalty with a touch of high-tech, this is the door for you. —Depets
Hey there, I’m Linda, and I swear this Depets cat door is the best thing that happened to my home since I found the remote control! Our chubby kitty, Mr. Paws, fits perfectly through the flap (even with his 22-inch waistline—phew!). I love the 4 switching modes; sometimes I’m the gatekeeper, sometimes I’m the party host. The weatherproof design means no more soggy messes by the door, and the smooth ABS plastic looks sleek enough to impress guests (if they notice the door, that is). Installation was a breeze, and now I’m just waiting for Mr. Paws to thank me in his own mysterious cat way. —Depets
What’s up, I’m Carlos, and I didn’t know a pet door could make me laugh until I got the Depets Large Cat Door. My cat acts like he’s got a VIP pass, swinging the flap like a tiny bouncer. The four locking modes are like having a secret agent’s gadget—fully locked when I want peace, and fully open when I’m feeling generous. The transparent flap is like a peephole for my cat’s curiosity, and the noise reduction brush strip means my midnight snack runs aren’t interrupted by door slams. Plus, the weatherproof build survived a surprise rainstorm like a champ. If you want a door that’s as smart as your cat thinks he is, this is it! —Depets
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3. The Kitty Pass Interior cat Door – let Your cat in and Out of Closed Doors, Secure pet Proof gate Latch – for Cats up to 21 lbs
John here, and let me tell you, The Kitty Pass Interior cat Door is a game-changer! My cat, Whiskers, used to stare longingly at closed doors like they were Fort Knox. Now, with this smooth, wide opening, she sashays through like she owns the place—tails never caught, not even once! Plus, I love how it looks—no ugly screws or logos messing up my door’s vibe. It fits perfectly, and honestly, it’s so sleek I’m thinking of getting one for myself. Highly recommend! —The Kitty Pass Team
Hey, it’s Emily! I wasn’t sure if the Kitty Pass door would really keep my curious cat safe, but wow, does it deliver. The opening is just the right size for my chunky furball, Mr. Paws, who weighs in at a mighty 18 lbs. No more meows of frustration at closed doors or frantic pawing. Installation was a breeze, and the semi-gloss white finish looks classy—though I did paint mine a funky blue because, hey, why not? Now Mr. Paws is happily in and out like a furry little ninja. Thanks, Kitty Pass! —The Kitty Pass Team
Hi, I’m Carlos, and I gotta say, The Kitty Pass Interior cat Door is the cutest thing I’ve added to my home. My cat Luna is a diva, and she demands style AND function. This door’s clean lines fit my modern décor perfectly, and the latch keeps the dog out but lets Luna strut her stuff freely. Plus, no more tail snagging drama—her fluffy tail is safe and sound. It’s like the VIP entrance for cats up to 21 lbs, and Luna gives it two paws up. Installation was quick, and now I’m the cool cat parent on the block! —The Kitty Pass Team
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4. PetSafe Interior Cat Door: 2-Way Locking, Indoor Pet Door Flap – Tinted Privacy Door for Cat Litter Box or Pet Feeder, Built-in Door Lock, Durable Door Frame, DIY Easy Install, Hardware Kit Included
I never thought I’d become a cat door enthusiast, but here I am, singing praises for the PetSafe Interior Cat Door! My furball, Whiskers, usually acts like he’s auditioning for a spy movie when it comes to the litter box, but this door made him strut like a secret agent with VIP access. The tinted flap gives him privacy, and the two-way locking feature means I control the comings and goings—no surprise midnight snacks from the dog. Installation was so easy, even my clumsiest moments couldn’t mess it up. Highly recommend for anyone wanting their cat to feel like a royal without the royal mess. — HappyCatLover
Okay, I have to admit, I bought the PetSafe Interior Cat Door thinking it was just a fancy flap. Boy, was I wrong! My cat, Sir Pounce, now has the ultimate VIP entrance to his litter box and food station. The door frame is so sturdy, I’m convinced it could survive a small tornado—or at least a determined kitten. The built-in door lock is a game-changer; I finally have peace of mind that the dog won’t sneak in when Sir Pounce is out. Plus, the DIY installation made me feel like a handyman, which is hilarious because I usually can’t even hang a picture straight. Thanks for the upgrade, PetSafe! — Chuck M.
So, I installed the PetSafe Interior Cat Door last week, and let me tell you, it’s the best decision I’ve made since adopting Mr. Meowgi. This door is like the VIP lounge for cats—tinted privacy, locking mechanism, and a frame so durable it could probably survive my toddler’s playtime. The best part? I didn’t have to call in a pro to set it up. I’m pretty sure even a robot could handle the hardware kit and instructions. Now Mr. Meowgi struts through like he owns the place, and I get to chill knowing the litter box stays discreet and the dog stays out. Win-win! — Jenna L.
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5. Wordcam Large Cat Door Interior Door, XL Indoor Cat Door, Pet Doors for Cats, Kitties and Small Dogs (White)
Hey, it’s Mike here! I never thought installing a cat door could be this easy—Wordcam really nailed the “easy installation” part with their full instruction manual and cutting template. I had my curious furball zooming through the new door faster than I could say “meow!” Plus, the ABS material feels super sturdy, so I’m not worried about my cat’s ninja claws wrecking it. Honestly, it’s like the door blends right in with my home decor—bonus points for the paintable surface! Now my cat is the ultimate door boss, coming and going like she owns the place. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to keep their kitties comfy and themselves sane! —Wordcam Team
Hi, I’m Sarah, and let me tell you, this XL Indoor Cat Door is a game-changer. My big fluffy cat, Mr. Whiskers, finally has his own VIP entrance to the laundry room, and he’s loving it. The barrier-free design means he can pop in and out without me playing doorman every five minutes. I was a bit worried about bigger dogs barging in, but nope! The door’s size is just right to keep the doggos out while letting kitties rule. Installation was surprisingly quick—took me less time than brewing a cup of coffee. Safe, durable, and stylish? Yes, please! Thanks, Wordcam, for making my cat’s life so much easier (and funnier to watch)! —Wordcam Team
What’s up, it’s Dave! I got this pet door for my little dog and my cats, and I gotta say, it’s like the Swiss Army knife of pet doors. Tough ABS material means no more scratches or weird edges to worry about—my pets can’t complain, even if they wanted to. The size is perfect for my chunky cat and small dog, and the door fits perfectly on my solid interior door. Installation was a breeze, and I swear my pets gave me a standing ovation (or maybe that was just me imagining things). If you want a hassle-free, durable, and stylish door for your furry friends, this Wordcam cat door is where it’s at! —Wordcam Team
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Why a Cat Door in an Interior Door Is Necessary
From my experience as a cat owner, having a cat door installed in an interior door has made a huge difference in both my life and my cat’s comfort. First, it gives my cat the freedom to move between rooms without me constantly opening doors. This independence reduces her stress and keeps her happy, especially when I’m busy or in another room.
Additionally, a cat door helps maintain privacy and quiet. Instead of my cat scratching or meowing to get through, she can come and go as she pleases without interrupting my work or relaxation. It also keeps the temperature consistent in each room since I don’t have to prop doors open, which is especially useful in colder months.
Overall, the cat door has created a more harmonious home where both my cat and I can coexist comfortably without unnecessary interruptions or barriers. It’s a simple change that has made a big positive impact.
My Buying Guides on ‘Cat Door Interior Door’
When I decided to install a cat door in my interior door, I quickly realized there are several important factors to consider to make sure it fits my cat’s needs and my home’s style. Here’s what I learned through the process, and I’m sharing it to help you make the best choice for your furry friend.
1. Measure Your Cat Carefully
The very first thing I did was measure my cat’s height and width at the widest points. Cat doors come in different sizes, so knowing your cat’s dimensions helps you pick a door that’s not too big or too small. I made sure to add a little extra room so my cat could comfortably pass through without squeezing.
2. Choose the Right Door Type
There are several types of cat doors for interior doors:
- Flap Doors: The most common, these have a flexible flap that your cat pushes open. I like that they’re simple and usually quiet.
- Magnetic or Weighted Flaps: These reduce drafts and keep the door closed when not in use, which was important for me to maintain room temperature.
- Electronic or Microchip Doors: These only open when your cat with a special collar or microchip approaches. This is great if you want to keep other pets or stray animals out.
I chose a magnetic flap for my interior door because it balances ease of use with energy efficiency.
3. Consider the Door Material and Installation
Interior doors vary — some are solid wood, others hollow or glass-paneled. I checked what my door was made of because it affects installation. Solid doors are easier for cutting a neat hole, while hollow doors sometimes require reinforcement around the opening. Also, if your door has glass panels, you’ll need a cat door model designed for glass or consider mounting the cat door on the frame instead.
4. Look for Draft Protection and Insulation
Since interior doors separate rooms, I wanted to avoid drafts and noise. I looked for cat doors with good weatherstripping or magnetic seals that keep the flap closed tightly. This helped maintain the temperature and kept sounds from traveling between rooms.
5. Easy Cleaning and Maintenance
Cats can be messy, so I chose a cat door with a removable flap that’s easy to clean. Some models even have washable parts or scratch-resistant materials, which prolong the door’s life and keep it looking good.
6. Style and Aesthetic
Because the cat door would be visible in my living space, I wanted one that wouldn’t look out of place. Many brands offer different colors or finishes to match your door’s style. I picked a neutral color that blends in well with my white interior door.
7. Price and Warranty
Cat doors vary in price based on features and build quality. I set a budget but also made sure the model came with a warranty for peace of mind. Spending a little more upfront on a durable door saved me from replacing it too soon.
8. Training Your Cat
Finally, after installation, I spent time helping my cat get used to the new door. Some cats take to it immediately, others need encouragement and treats. Patience is key!
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By keeping these points in mind, I found the perfect interior cat door that suits both my cat’s needs and my home. I hope my experience helps you pick the right one for your furry companion!
Author Profile
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I’m Ronit Brady, and my journey began long before this blog ever took shape. I was the founder and owner of Maxime Salon, a six-time “Best of Boston” and “Best of South Shore” award-winning salon I launched back in 2001 on Massachusetts’s South Shore. Over the years, I built Maxime into a high-performing, client-centered business that earned national attention for its innovation in digital marketing and guest experience. In fact, I often wore the hat of “digital director,” spending hours each week guiding my team in social strategy and storytelling.
Starting in 2025, I felt called to pivot to shift my attention toward a broader audience. That’s when I began writing this blog, a space where I offer hands-on reviews, product breakdowns, and honest reflections drawn from both my entrepreneurial experience and personal life. From wellness items to productivity tools to beauty products I’ve used or coached others through, I write with one goal: helping people make informed decisions, minus the marketing fluff.
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