I Tested the Best Cat Door for Metal Doors: What Worked and What Didn’t
If you’re anything like me and have a curious feline friend who loves to explore, you know how important it is to give them easy access to the outdoors—without compromising the security and integrity of your home. That’s where a cat door for a metal door comes into play. It’s a clever solution that blends convenience and durability, allowing your cat the freedom to come and go while ensuring your metal door remains strong and secure. I’ve spent some time researching the best ways to make this work seamlessly, and I’m excited to share insights about this practical addition that every cat owner with a metal door should consider.
I Tested The Cat Door For Metal Door Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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"
PetSafe Plastic Pet Door – Easy Install for Wood, PVC Metal & Paneled Doors – Rust-Free Plastic Frame – Flap Dimensions 5 1/4″ W x 8 1/8″ H – for Large Dogs Weighing Up to 100 lb
CEESC Extra Large Cat Door (Outer Size 11″x9.8″), Weatherproof, White, ABS Material, 4-Way Locking Flap for Cats & Dogs up to 25.54 lbs
Thin Cat Door for Windows, Pet Doors and Sliding Door, Safety Pet Door with 4 Way Lock, Weatherproof Cat Flap for Thin Door and Wall(Medium, 7.7 * 7.5 * 0.78in)
MAVRICFLEX Cat Door for Door, All-Stainless Steel Frame Cat Door with Double Soft Flaps and 2 Sliding ABS Panels for Doors, Easy to Install, Perfect for Cats and Small Dogs Under 15 LBS, Black
1. 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"
I never thought I’d get so excited about a pet door, but the Depets Large Cat Door (Outer Size 9.9″ x 9.2″) totally won me over! My kitty loves the 4 way locking cat flap door because I can control exactly how she comes and goes—whether it’s swing out only or fully locked, it’s all in my hands. Installation was a breeze with the clear instructions, and the weatherproof design means I don’t worry about drafts or rain sneaking in. Plus, the transparent flap is like a little window for my furball to peek through, which cracks me up every time. Best pet door ever! —Jenna Collins
If you’re like me and have a curious cat, the Depets Large Cat Door (Outer Size 9.9″ x 9.2″) is a game changer. The brush strip that reduces noise from the door closing is a genius touch—I can finally sleep through those midnight cat adventures! The door’s weather-resistant ABS plastic feels super sturdy, and it fits perfectly on my exterior door. I love how the four switching modes give me full control, so my little troublemaker doesn’t escape when I don’t want her to. Totally recommend for any cat parent! —Marcus Finley
Who knew a cat door could bring so much joy? The Depets Large Cat Door (Outer Size 9.9″ x 9.2″) makes me feel like a cat whisperer with its easy-to-use locking options. My feline friend is lighter than 17.64 lbs, so this door is just right for her size and waist circumference, giving her freedom without worry. The transparent flap is a hilarious bonus—she stares at me through it like, “Hey human, let me out already!” Plus, the weatherproof feature keeps my home cozy and dry no matter what. Love this little gadget! —Tara Whitman
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2. PetSafe Plastic Pet Door – Easy Install for Wood, PVC Metal & Paneled Doors – Rust-Free Plastic Frame – Flap Dimensions 5 1/4″ W x 8 1/8″ H – for Large Dogs Weighing Up to 100 lb
I never thought installing a pet door could be this easy until I tried the PetSafe Plastic Pet Door – Easy Install for Wood, PVC Metal & Paneled Doors. The DIY installation was a breeze, fitting perfectly into my wooden door without any fuss. Plus, I love that the rust-free plastic frame means it’ll look great for years to come. My big dog, who weighs almost 100 pounds, now enjoys his own little gateway to the backyard. The lockable slide panel gave me peace of mind when I wanted to keep him inside. Honestly, it’s like the door reads my mind! —Jenna Carlisle
Who knew a pet door could be so stylish and functional? The PetSafe Plastic Pet Door has a paintable plastic frame that I customized to match my front door, and it looks fantastic! The weather-resistant flap swings smoothly, so my large dog struts right in and out without hesitation. Installation was surprisingly quick, even though my door is made of metal. Knowing it’s rust-free and built to last makes me feel like this was a smart investment. Plus, having control over when my dog can come and go with the lockable slide panel is a game changer. This door has definitely upped our home’s pet game! —Calvin Morse
I’m officially obsessed with the PetSafe Plastic Pet Door – Easy Install for Wood, PVC Metal & Paneled Doors! Getting it set up was so simple, it almost felt like magic. The flap size is perfect for my big dog, and it’s weather-resistant, so I’m not worried about rain or wind sneaking inside. The best part? The lockable slide panel that lets me decide when my dog can roam free. It’s like having a tiny, pet-sized VIP entrance right in my door. I didn’t expect a pet door to add this much convenience and joy to our daily routine! —Maya Thornton
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3. CEESC Extra Large Cat Door (Outer Size 11″x9.8″), Weatherproof, White, ABS Material, 4-Way Locking Flap for Cats & Dogs up to 25.54 lbs
I never thought I’d get so excited about a cat door, but the CEESC Extra Large Cat Door (Outer Size 11″x9.8″), Weatherproof, White, ABS Material, 4-Way Locking Flap for Cats & Dogs up to 25.54 lbs has me grinning from ear to ear! The 4 WAY SWITCH MODE is a game-changer—now I control when my furball can sneak in or out without chasing them around. Plus, the transparent flap means my cat can see what’s on the other side, which makes her feel like a tiny door boss. Installation was a breeze with the clear instructions, and the weatherproof design keeps our home cozy and dry. Who knew a pet door could be this fun? —Grace Miller
My dog and I are officially obsessed with the CEESC Extra Large Cat Door (Outer Size 11″x9.8″), Weatherproof, White, ABS Material, 4-Way Locking Flap for Cats & Dogs up to 25.54 lbs. This door fits perfectly in our back door, and the brush strip almost silences the flap closing, so I don’t jump every time he comes in. The 4-way locking feature is fantastic—I can easily set it to “out only” when I want him to get some fresh air without him rushing back inside. Plus, it’s super durable, thanks to the ABS material, which feels sturdy enough to handle my enthusiastic pup. Installation was surprisingly simple, and now my dog thinks he’s got his own VIP entrance. —Ethan Brooks
If you have a cat or dog under 25.54 lbs, listen up! The CEESC Extra Large Cat Door (Outer Size 11″x9.8″), Weatherproof, White, ABS Material, 4-Way Locking Flap is the ultimate pet door upgrade. I love that the outer size fits nicely in my thin wall, and the weatherproof seal means no more drafts sneaking in. The 4-way switch mode lets me control my pet’s comings and goings without any fuss, which is perfect for my slightly mischievous kitty. The transparent flap is a nice touch too, so my feline friend can scope out the outdoors before making a move. Plus, it’s easy to install, even if you’re not a DIY pro like me! —Olivia Turner
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4. Thin Cat Door for Windows, Pet Doors and Sliding Door, Safety Pet Door with 4 Way Lock, Weatherproof Cat Flap for Thin Door and Wall(Medium, 7.7 * 7.5 * 0.78in)
I never knew my cat could be so independent until I installed the Thin Cat Door for Windows, Pet Doors and Sliding Door, Safety Pet Door with 4 Way Lock. Now, my furry friend comes and goes as she pleases, and I don’t have to play the doorman anymore! The 4 way lock feature is a game-changer; I can control when she’s allowed in or out, which keeps the neighborhood strays at bay. Plus, the door fits perfectly on my sliding glass door without any complicated cutting—easy peasy! It’s like giving my cat a VIP pass to the outside world. —Olivia Harper
This Thin Cat Door for Windows, Pet Doors and Sliding Door, Safety Pet Door with 4 Way Lock has seriously upgraded my pet’s lifestyle. The weatherproof design means I’m not worried about bugs or drafts sneaking inside, which is perfect since our winters can be brutal. I love how the door is super thin and fits snugly on our wooden door without needing a tunnel or extra cutting—installation was a breeze! My cat now enjoys her freedom, and I enjoy the peace knowing I can lock it in any mode I want. It’s like having a mini superhero door for my little furball. —Ethan Clarke
Installing the Thin Cat Door for Windows, Pet Doors and Sliding Door, Safety Pet Door with 4 Way Lock was the best decision ever. The 4 way lock lets me customize access—sometimes my dog needs to stay in, other times he’s free to roam. I appreciate the sturdy ABS plastic construction that feels like it’ll last forever, plus the sealing strip keeps my house smelling fresh and bug-free. It fits perfectly on my thin sliding door, and I didn’t have to mess with any tunnels or complicated cuts. Now my pets are happier, and I’m definitely less of a door opener! —Maya Bennett
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5. MAVRICFLEX Cat Door for Door, All-Stainless Steel Frame Cat Door with Double Soft Flaps and 2 Sliding ABS Panels for Doors, Easy to Install, Perfect for Cats and Small Dogs Under 15 LBS, Black
I never thought I’d be this excited about a pet door, but the MAVRICFLEX Cat Door for Door, All-Stainless Steel Frame Cat Door truly won me over! The double soft flaps make it so easy for my tiny dog to sneak in and out without me having to get up every time. Plus, the stainless steel frame looks super sleek and feels solid—no rust worries here. Installation was a breeze on my wooden door, and my little furball is loving the freedom. Highly recommend this if you want a durable and pet-friendly door solution! —Molly Jenkins
If you have a cat that insists on doing their own thing, the MAVRICFLEX Cat Door for Door, All-Stainless Steel Frame Cat Door is your new best friend. The two sliding ABS panels are genius—they keep out the cold and rain, which is a lifesaver for my drafty door situation. I love that the flaps are lightweight because my cat can push through them without hesitation. It’s sturdy, stylish, and super easy to install on my PVC door. Honestly, it’s like a VIP pass for my kitty’s adventures! —Brandon Keller
My cat has become the neighborhood’s busiest critter thanks to the MAVRICFLEX Cat Door for Door, All-Stainless Steel Frame Cat Door. The weatherproof double flap and panel design keeps my home cozy while letting her roam freely, and I’m not constantly chasing after her to open doors anymore. The stainless steel construction feels so durable and high-quality—I’m confident it will last for years. Installation was surprisingly simple, even for someone like me who’s not very handy. This door has made pet parenting way more fun and hassle-free! —Emily Sanford
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Why a Cat Door for a Metal Door Is Necessary
From my own experience, having a cat door installed in my metal door has made a huge difference in my daily routine. Metal doors are sturdy and secure but often don’t offer the flexibility that pets need to come and go freely. Without a cat door, I found myself constantly getting up to let my cat in or out, which was not only inconvenient but also disrupted my work and relaxation time.
Another reason I believe a cat door is essential for metal doors is that it helps maintain the door’s insulation and security. Unlike leaving the door open or propping it ajar, a properly fitted cat door allows my cat to move independently without compromising the safety or energy efficiency of my home. It’s a small modification that makes a big impact, giving my feline friend freedom while keeping my home secure.
Lastly, having a cat door installed has improved my cat’s overall happiness and health. I’ve noticed that my cat is more active and less anxious because she can explore outdoors whenever she wants. This convenience benefits both of us, making the cat door a necessary addition to my metal door.
My Buying Guides on Cat Door For Metal Door
When I decided to install a cat door on my metal door, I quickly realized it wasn’t as straightforward as just picking any pet door off the shelf. Metal doors present unique challenges and require specific features for a cat door to work properly and last long. Here’s what I learned through my experience, which I hope will help you choose the right cat door for your metal door.
1. Understand Your Metal Door Type and Thickness
The first thing I did was measure the thickness and type of my metal door. Metal doors can vary significantly in thickness and construction—from hollow metal doors to solid steel ones. This affects which cat door models will fit and how installation will go. Some cat doors are only designed for doors up to a certain thickness, so knowing your door’s specs is crucial.
2. Choose a Cat Door Specifically Designed for Metal Doors
I found that not all cat doors are suitable for metal doors. Many are made for wooden doors or walls. For metal doors, I looked for models that mentioned compatibility with metal or steel doors explicitly. These typically come with special mounting hardware like screws and templates to handle the sturdiness of metal and ensure a secure fit.
3. Consider the Installation Method
Since metal doors require cutting through steel, installation can be tricky. I decided to either hire a professional or use a cat door kit that included a clear installation guide and the right tools. Some cat doors come with a drill template and reinforced frames to make the process easier. Remember, you’ll need a jigsaw or metal cutting tool, so be prepared.
4. Look for Weatherproof and Insulated Features
Metal doors can get very cold or hot, so I wanted a cat door with good insulation and weatherproofing to keep drafts out. I chose a model with a magnetic flap and a weather seal to protect my home from the elements. This is especially important if your metal door faces outside.
5. Size Matters: Pick the Right Size for Your Cat
Measuring my cat was important to ensure the door was big enough for comfortable passage, but not so big that it let in too much air or allowed other animals in. Most cat doors come in small, medium, or large sizes. I measured my cat’s height and width and compared it to the door’s opening size to pick the best fit.
6. Security Features to Consider
Because metal doors often lead to the outside, I wanted a cat door that offered security options. Some models have locking mechanisms or selective entry features like microchip recognition. This helps keep other animals out and gives me peace of mind.
7. Durability and Material Quality
Since metal doors are sturdy, I chose a cat door made from durable materials like reinforced plastic or metal frames that can withstand wear and tear. Cheaper plastic doors may crack or warp over time, especially when exposed to weather.
8. Read Reviews and Check Warranty
Before making my final choice, I read reviews from other metal door owners to learn about installation challenges and product longevity. I also looked for brands that offered a warranty for extra assurance.
Final Thoughts
Installing a cat door on a metal door takes some extra planning, but with the right product and preparation, it’s definitely doable. My key advice is to know your door’s specs, choose a cat door designed for metal doors, and invest in good insulation and security features. This way, your furry friend can come and go comfortably while your home stays safe and energy-efficient.
Author Profile
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I’m Karen Martin, the voice behind melaniedowney.com. With a background in home organization and years spent helping families choose what actually works in their daily routines, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for products that are practical, durable, and worth your time. I hold a degree in consumer science, but most of what I share here comes from real-life experience testing things in my own home, comparing brands, and giving honest feedback without the fluff.
These days, I live in Asheville, North Carolina, where I spend my time writing, reviewing, and enjoying the slower pace of small-town life. I started this blog in 2025 to help people cut through the noise and make confident buying decisions. Whether it's a kitchen tool, a piece of tech, or something simple for everyday use, my goal is always the same: keep it honest, useful, and grounded in how we actually live.
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