Installing a cat door in your garage door gives your feline friends the freedom to access and explore the outdoors. These doors provide convenience and independence for your cat, reducing frustration and encouraging natural behaviors like exploration and exercise. When selecting a cat door, consider factors such as size, durability, and security features to ensure it meets your needs. A properly chosen and installed cat door can withstand weather conditions and prevent unwanted animals from entering. Most cat doors come with installation kits and instructions, making the process straightforward. In this article, we’ll review some of the best cat doors for garage doors, highlighting their features and benefits to help you make an informed choice.

Pre-Installation Considerations

A cat door should ideally be installed in a garage side entry door. If you don’t have one, take note that most pet doors need at least 1” thick for a safe fit.  Garage doors are usually ½ to 1 inch thick. So if your garage door is on the thinner side, you can build it out with materials like wood. However, the thickness should not exceed 1.5”. For single slab metal or wood garage doors, any pet door can be installed without issues. But for sectional garage doors, the cat door cannot be larger than an individual panel, which often limits you to smaller sizes. Additionally, ensure the pet door is positioned at least 1” higher than your cat’s back to avoid injury. 

Without further ado, here is our list of best cat doors for garage door:

PetSafe Extreme Weather Pet Door™

What we love:

• Maximum energy efficiency with a unique three-flap system
• Insulated center flap for added weather protection
• Snap-on closing panel for controlled access
• Easy DIY installation for standard-size doors

The PetSafe Extreme Weather Pet Door™ can withstand extreme temperatures for homes in hot or cold climates. Its three-flap design ensures maximum energy efficiency, keeping your garage insulated from outdoor weather. The door includes a snap-on closing panel so you can have control over your pet’s access. Installation is straightforward, with the door fitting into standard paneled, wood, metal, and PVC doors of specified thickness. Available in three sizes, this pet door can accommodate pets up to 100 pounds.

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Sure Pet Care Microchip Cat Flap

What we love:

• Selective entry via microchip recognition
• Stores up to 32 pet identities
• Curfew mode locks and unlocks at specified times
• Manual lock for additional security
• Easy installation

The SureFlap Microchip Cat Flap gives your cat a secure and controlled access by using their existing microchip. It can store multiple pet identities, making it ideal for multi-cat households. The flap is battery-operated to ensure long-lasting use. Installation is straightforward and adaptable to various surfaces so you can place it conveniently on the garage door. This cat flap effectively keeps unwanted animals out while allowing your cat exclusive access.

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Hale Pet Door Door Model

What we love:

• Customizable sizes for any pet
• Double or single flap options for added insulation
• Durable, high-quality construction
• Variety of frame colors to match home decor
• Easy installation for various door types

The Hale Pet Door Door Model has available options for all types of garage doors and any size of cats. The sizes range from small medium to giant, so it can fit any size of your pet cat. It has a wide range of customization options including flap types and frame colors, ensuring it fits seamlessly with your garage door. Installation is straightforward, making it an excellent choice for pet owners seeking a reliable and adaptable pet door solution.

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Conclusion

Incorporating a cat door into your garage door can significantly enhance your cat’s freedom and your convenience. The PetSafe Extreme Weather Pet Door™ ensures energy efficiency with its three-flap system, making it perfect for extreme climates. The SureFlap Microchip Cat Flap offers secure, selective entry, keeping unwanted animals out. Lastly, the Hale Pet Door Door Model provides versatility and customization, fitting various door types and pet sizes. These options cater to different needs, ensuring a comfortable, safe, and accessible environment for your feline friend. Choose the right door to match your lifestyle and enjoy the benefits it brings to both you and your cat.