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Picture a warm summer day. You want to open a window to let in a light breeze, but then you panic. What if your cat gets out? Many cat owners have been there.

So, you are forced to leave your windows shut. But you think, “there has to be a solution!”

Well cat owners, don’t worry. We’ve researched cat-proof screens and figured out the best solutions to this problem. By the end of this post, we hope you feel confident enough to attach a cat proof screen and open your windows in the warm summer months.

Open Windows: The Issue

Unfortunately, most window screens are not cat proof.

Cats can easily scratch or push their way through most traditional window screens. And this leads to some stressful situations. If you have an inside-only cat, you definitely don’t want to worry about your cat getting outside.

Luckily, there are a few options to cat-proof your windows. Keep reading to find out more!

Open Windows: The Solution

So, if you want to open your windows without worrying about your cat getting out, you have a few options.

Not all of these solutions will work for every cat. You need to consider your cat’s unique personality. Is your cat curious and likely to get out at all costs? Or, are they calmer and less interested in getting outside?

Also, you may need to experiment with each of these options before you decide what is right for your home. Try the easy and cheapest option first. This might be all you need! But, if that doesn’t work, move on to the more durable solutions.

Option 1: Double Sided Tape

This is the easiest and cheapest solution.

Many cats don’t like to touch something sticky. So, a simple solution is to place double sided tape on your windowsill. If your cat touches this, they might decide to stay away from the window sill. Then, you wouldn’t have to worry about them getting out of the window.

But, unfortunately, some cats don’t mind double-sided tape. Others simply get used to the feeling. So, this might not be the perfect solution.

Option 2: Reinforce Your Current Screens

This option is still fairly affordable and simple.

Instead of completely replacing your window screens, you could try to reinforce your current screens. Use duct tape or additional screws to reinforce the screens from the outside.

If the screens are stronger, it will be harder for your cat to get outside.

But, again, some cats are very determined to get outside. And they can still use their claws to tear the screens. So, if your cat really wants to get out the window, you may need to move on to Option 3.

Option 3: Replace Your Traditional Screens with Cat-Proof Screens

The third option is, unfortunately, the most time-consuming option. Luckily, cat-proof screens are fairly affordable so this isn’t an expensive solution.

Many cat-proof screens are made with a thick polyester yarn, which is much more durable than traditional fiberglass screens. These cat-proof screens can be cut to fit any window or door and they are a great solution for cats who like to get outside.

Be aware, these screens are much thicker than traditional screens. So, they are also often darker. This can be frustrating since it can block sunlight. But, this is still a great solution to help keep your pets safe.

Cat-Proof Screens

When looking for a cat-proof screen, make sure the product you select is thick and tear resistant.

I personally like the Saint-Gobain Premium Pet Screen. This product is flame-resistant, thick and Greenguard [GOLD] Certified. This screen is easy to install and comes in a dark charcoal color. It could easily be used to replace a traditional window or door screen.

Phifer makes another great option for a cat-proof screen. It is simple to install and is extremely tear-proof. Regardless of which option you pick, you need to make sure it is a very durable product that will withstand scratches or tears.

To install a new cat-proof screen, you need to make sure you have the right tools. Gather the following tools:

• New cat-proof screen
• Spline
• Spline-tool
• Utility knife or scissors
• Screwdriver

Once you have your tools, you can replace the screen by following these steps:

Step 1: Remove Old Spline

Spline is simply the cord used in screen windows to keep everything in place. To start, remove the old spline from the window. You may need to use a screwdriver to lift up the spline so you can remove it. Discard the old spline.

Step 2: Replace the Screen

Remove the old screen. Next, place the new pet-safe screen over the frame. Make sure there is some overlap on the side of the frame.

Cut the new screen so there is 1/2in overlap on all sides.

Step 3: Lay Down the New Spline

Now, lay the spline around the perimeter of the frame. Use a spline tool to roll over the spline and screen, making sure everything is secured in place.

Step 4: Remove Excess Screen

For the final step, use a utility knife to trim and remove any excess screen.

Reinstall the window. Now, you can open your window without fear of your cat breaking through the flimsy screen.

Final Thoughts

As cat owners, we are very concerned about our pet’s safety.

But, in the summer, it is also very important that we are cool and comfortable in our homes. And sometimes, that means we need to open a few windows.

This can be stressful if you are worried about your cat escaping through the open window. Even if you have a screen, they might be able to tear it and get outside.

So, it is very important to install cat-proof screens on your windows. These screens are very durable and make it almost impossible for cats to escape.

Have you installed cat-proof screens? We would love to hear your experience! Share your story in the comments below.