I've got a bit of a situation with my pet door. The previous owner had a small dog, and now the door is pretty much destroyed, with a mangled flap that my cat is somehow still using. The pet door is just a basic solid wood one that leads from the kitchen to my enclosed back porch where my cat box is located. I'm planning to patch up the damage and repaint the door but need some guidance on how to find a replacement insert. Online, I keep seeing advice about measuring my cat, but that doesn't help since I already have a hole. Should I be measuring the outer size of the existing door, the inner opening, or the actual hole itself? I really want to buy it online, but the whole process is confusing. Plus, my budget isn't very big, and I can't afford to mess this up. I've been putting this off for over 10 years! Thanks in advance for your help!
3 Answers
Check out this cat door from Home Depot! It shows the dimensions clearly, and you might even find it in-store to check it out physically before purchasing. Plus, if it doesn't fit, most places allow returns, which is a bonus! Here’s the link: [Home Depot Cat Door](https://www.homedepot.com/p/Ideal-Pet-Products-6-25-in-x-6-25-in-Small-Cat-Flap-Cat-Door-with-Plastic-Frame-And-Rigid-Flap-SPF/100404349)
The best way to go about it is to take out the existing door and measure the actual hole. Most pet doors will have specifications detailing the hole size needed for installation. After you get the measurements, you can either buy a replacement that fits right in or find one slightly bigger to adjust the hole as needed before you patch and repaint the door. Good luck!
I faced a similar issue and learned the hard way. If you still have the frame of the old cat door, measure its width and height. Then start browsing online—Amazon has tons of options. I found a medium door that matched closely with what I had and followed the uninstall/install directions. If your frame isn't too damaged, you might even just be able to replace the flaps. That way, you won't have to mess with the whole door!
Great advice! I did the same and was super happy with how it turned out. Just make sure to check reviews for the doors you’re considering!
Awesome! I've found that store returns are really helpful if you're unsure about sizes. Always double-check before buying!