Cat Flaps and Protective Netting for Cats

A cat and an open window or an unsecured balcony – a combination that causes thousands of needless injuries and deaths every year. High-rise syndrome, as vets call it, is a genuinely real risk for every cat living in a flat or house with access to a balcony or open windows. Cat flaps and protective netting are a simple, effective solution that lets a cat safely enjoy natural light, fresh air and a view – without the risk of falling, escaping or coming into contact with dangers outside.

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A widespread myth says cats always land on their feet and survive a fall unharmed. The reality is different – cats do have an excellent righting reflex, but when falling from a low height (the 2nd to 4th floor), they don't have enough time to turn themselves properly and injuries tend to be severe. Paradoxically, cats falling from a greater height sometimes have a better prognosis, because they have time to get into the optimal position. Every fall is potentially fatal, and prevention is always better than treatment.

Protective netting for balconies and windows

Protective netting is the most reliable way to give a cat access to a balcony or open window without the risk of falling or escaping. Good-quality netting is made from durable materials that withstand UV radiation, the weather and cats' claws, and is available in versions for different types of balconies, loggias and windows.

• Balcony netting – covers the entire balcony railing area and stops the cat jumping over or squeezing through gaps. Available in various heights and lengths, usually made to measure or in universal sizes that can be adjusted. Good-quality balcony netting is practically invisible from a distance and doesn't spoil the look of the balcony.
• Window netting – specially designed netting for securing open windows. Unlike ordinary insect screens, it's made from a tougher material that can withstand the pressure of a cat's body. Available as tension frames, magnetic or adhesive versions suited to different types of windows.
• Corner and side netting – supplementary netting that closes off gaps and corners of the balcony where a cat could squeeze through or get stuck. Especially important on older or non-standard balconies with wider gaps in the railing.

Cat flaps

Cat flaps allow a cat to move freely between rooms, or between the house and the garden, without you having to keep opening doors and without the risk of the cat getting shut in or, conversely, escaping. Modern cat flaps are far more sophisticated than their predecessors – they come with recognition systems that let only your cat come through, not the neighbours' cats or other animals.

• Standard cat flaps – the basic version with a magnetic closure. The cat pushes it open with its head or paw. Suitable for houses with a garden where there's no risk of other animals getting in, or where that isn't a concern.
• Microchip-reading flaps – respond only to a specific cat's microchip and open only for that cat. An ideal solution for households with several animals, or where stray cats might try to get in. Compatible with the international ISO 11784/11785 microchip standard.
• RFID collar-tag flaps – work on a similar principle to microchip flaps, but read an RFID tag on the cat's collar instead of a microchip. Suitable for cats without a microchip, or as an addition to an existing system.
• Four-way locking flaps – allow four settings: free passage in both directions, in only, out only, or fully locked. Handy for controlling a cat's movement at different times of day or in different situations.
• Tunnel flaps – designed for installation in thicker walls or insulated doors. The tunnel ensures the cat passes right through the opening without the risk of getting stuck or a draught coming through.

What to consider when choosing and installing

• Size of the opening – always measure by the largest cat in the household. A cat flap should be large enough for the cat to pass through comfortably without having to squeeze – otherwise it will be put off using it.
• Position of the flap – the bottom edge of the flap should be roughly 5–10 cm above the ground – a cat will naturally step over the threshold without tripping. For older cats with joint problems, choose as low a position as possible.
• Type of door or wall – before buying, check that the flap is compatible with the material and thickness of your door or wall. Some types are designed only for standard wooden doors, while others can cope with glass, PVC or brick masonry.
• Getting the cat used to it – first show the cat the new flap with the cover open and use treats to encourage it through. Once it's comfortable with that, gradually introduce the closed flap. Never push the cat through the flap – it will create a negative association.

Practical tips for keeping cats safe on balconies and at windows:

• Never rely on a cat judging the height itself and not jumping – cats can get carried away chasing prey, or get startled, and in that moment lose all sense of height.
• Tilt-and-turn windows are a deadly trap for cats – a cat may try to squeeze through the tilted gap, get stuck in the narrow section, and could break its spine or suffocate. Always secure tilt-and-turn windows with a special safety catch or net.
• Check netting regularly for damage – claws, UV radiation and weathering can gradually weaken it. Damaged netting doesn't provide reliable protection.
• Microchipping a cat is mandatory in many EU countries and greatly increases the chance of being reunited if it escapes – even with a secured balcony, a microchip is an important safeguard.

A safe balcony and secured windows are one of the most important investments you can make for your cat. A few minutes of fitting and a modest outlay on netting or a flap are a small price to pay for peace of mind and the certainty that your cat is safe.