Frequently Asked Questions

A: The PlexiDor cat door will not wear out from normal use, and it comes with a ten-year residential warranty. Many cats seem to always be on the wrong side of the door, meowing, "Let me out so you can let me in again." It doesn't matter how many times they go through their PlexiDor cat door every day - it will last. If you have many cats and they are really eager, running through the door many times every day, you might have to replace the springs after a few years. This is an easy operation. We are so confident your cat door will last that it comes with a ten-year residential warranty. If something goes wrong, contact us and we will help make it right.

A: Some dogs will chew their doggy door, but the good news is: The PlexiDor Extra Large has a protective trim around the panels.  The Extra Large PlexiDor dog door is constructed to take the daily use - and abuse - of very large dogs. It is intended to stand up to 220 pound dogs running through it at full speed several times a day, or being chewed on. If your chewer is a small dog, they can use the door too; the panels swing so easily that they can open it. Just make sure it's at a height appropriate for the small dog. Small dogs and cats usually open one side of the door to get through. Of course, having a chew-proof dog door won't automatically prevent a dog from chewing on other things. Most puppies chew things they aren't supposed to, and that behavior usually solves itself as they grow up. Their teeth itch, their gums hurt, and much like babies, they learn about the world through putting things in their mouth. Chewing is natural for adult dogs too and something they need to do, but an adult dog that has access to chew toys and still munches down on someone's shoes or the remote control may be bored, stressed, or suffer separation anxiety. Some scientists believe chewing releases dopamine in dogs' brains, which means it decreases stress and increases their sense of well being. A dog door in itself won't solve those problems - a dog can be just as bored outdoors as indoors. Or feel just as lonely outdoors as indoors. Most adult problem chewers destroy things when they're home alone. If your dog chews on things when you're home, they probably want attention. (Yelling or scolding won't help - it's still attention.) Some ideas to help your dog can include: Physical exercise - for instance playtime before leaving the house. Mental stimulation such as training. It is difficult to exercise a dog tired, but having something to think of can make the most energetic pup want a nap. Things to do, such as food puzzles. A dog trainer can also help with tips on how to alleviate separation anxiety.  

A: The PlexiDor security plate is attached inside the home and can not be removed from the outside. PlexiDor sizes medium, large, and extra large are delivered with a metal security plate that is screwed onto the frame from the inside of the house. The small PlexiDor doesn't have a security plate since it's too small for anyone to get through. There is a sliding track accessory for the PlexiDor that screws on the frame and allows the security plate to be slid into place instead of screwed on. This is also located inside the house. It is very difficult to force a locked PlexiDor open, and when the security plate is correctly attached, getting through the door from the outside is virtually impossible.

A: To get the right size PlexiDor, you should measure your dog, even though you know what breed it is. We have breed examples in the size guide, but these are examples - dog size can vary greatly between individuals in the same breed. Your furry friend will use the door many times every day, and they will like it better if it's the right size. It's a good idea to cut out the opening size in a piece of cardboard and call your pet to go through. That way you'll see if the hole is the right size. Read more about measuring your pet and what size door you may need in our guide, "What Size PlexiDor do I Need" This article also provides information abut smaller and larger pets sharing a door, and things to think of as your pet gets older.

A: Assuming there's enough room in the closet, the cats probably won't mind their litter box in the closet and installing a cat door in the closet door is a great solution. They like to do their business in a sheltered and quiet space that's easy to access. Most cats will prefer a closet to a basement, attic, or laundry room. You may want to consider the thickness of the closet door. The PlexiDor door kit is designed to fit a standard household door, and if the closet door is thinner, you may need to use some extra pieces of wood to build up under the frame. It isn't a problem or difficult to do, just something to keep in mind. Will you have other things in the closet? In such a small area, you are likely to get some kitty litter dust on things. Depending on the closet size you may also need some type of ventilation, because the "litter box smell" will be concentrated to such a small area. Another things to consider is light. Cats see much better in the dark than we do and most cats won't have an issue with the dusk inside the closet, but they may still appreciate a night-light.

A: Your cat should have access to a well maintained litter box even if you have a pet door. With a conveniently placed PlexiDor, your cat may choose to do their business outside, but it's still a good idea to offer a litter box. You may for instance need to lock the cat door from time to time, and your cat may still need to use the bathroom. Always having access to a box minimizes the risk of accidents - your cat knows where to go. If the weather outside is really bad, your cat might not want to leave the house. Having a box helps battle the temptation of using a soft rug. And, some cats prefer to use a box. As an added bonus, your cat being used to a litter box makes it easier to adapt to travel or being with a cat sitter. Make sure the box is big enough, placed in a safe, calm, and quiet area, has enough litter, and is cleaned on a regular basis.

A: The PlexiDor small accommodates cats up to 24 pounds, so most kitties will be able to use it even if they gain some weight. But be aware those extra pounds can be a health hazard to your pet, so you may want to consult your veterinarian and find a way to help kitty get back in shape. Look at the recommendations for the cat food you're using and make sure you're not overfeeding. Giving an appropriate amount of food and treats will ensure your cat doesn't gain any more weight. Your veterinarian may also recommend using another type of food to help your cat lose weight. Cats should not fast. The feline liver does not down-regulate during a fast and susceptible cats can become very ill after not eating for just a couple of days. Interactive play that entices your cat to run and jump is great for building muscles and losing weight. Many cats love toys like DaBird, or to chase a laser pointer. As an added benefit, playing together will strengthen your bond.

A: All PlexiDors have frames made from aluminum and see-through panels made from K9 Glass. The PlexiDor materials play a vital role in the door's durability, and makes it able to stand up to anything from rambunctious dogs to harsh weather conditions. The PlexiDor frames come in white, bronze, or brushed aluminum and fit into most environments. If someone desires another color, the frame can be painted. Depending on type of paint, you may need a primer to make the paint last.

A: Some dogs love to sink their teeth into things that shouldn't be chewed. This is most common with teething puppies, but some adult dogs chew on things too, often because of boredom or separation anxiety. The Extra Large PlexiDor has a protective trim around the panels. This door is specifically designed to withstand daily use and abuse from giant dogs, and it will keep up with them whether they run through it at full speed or chew on it. While the Extra Large dog door is designed for dogs up to 220 pounds, smaller pets can use it too, because the panels swing so easily. They usually figure out how to open one side of the door to get through.

A: If there is enough room, a PlexiDor can be installed under a window much like a regular wall installation. The biggest issue with installing a pet door under a window is the limited space. Small and medium size doors usually fit, but if you want to put in a bigger door, the window might be in the way. Measure carefully and consult our size chart for wall installations. Also consider how you want your security plate to work. The metal plate normally screws onto the frame, and that isn't a problem under a window. If you want to use the sliding track system, the window sill might be in the way.