How to Put a Cat Flap In Your Rented Home

Navigating renting as a pet parent can be tricky business. First, there’s the question of finding somewhere that will accept your pet (although hopefully that’s set to get a little easie r), then there’s the question of dealing with your landlord’s expectations of said pet.

For cat parents with outdoor cats, renting (and let’s face it, that’s what lots of us will be doing for the forseable) presents a very specific problem: how to let your cat in and out when you’re not allowed to install a cat flap.

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To be fair to landlords (first and last time that sentence will be written here), knocking a hole through a wall, door or window in order to fit a cat flap is kind of a big ask – unless of course you offer to pay to get it removed and fixed up after. However, as any cat parent knows, answering to the flighty whims of your indecisive feline and their wishes to be indoors or out at any given time is also a big ask.

Luckily, there are a few options you have to help with this problem. They’re not perfect and they are a little expensive and you should absolutely check with your landlord before doing them (play it safe with that security deposit!). Hopefully though, one solution at least will save you from having to get up in the middle of the night because your kitty fancies a moonlight jaunt.

Our editors (and their pets) picked out these products. They’re always in stock at the time we publish, but there’s a chance they’ll sell out. If you do buy through our links, we may earn a commission.

LockLatch

$59

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Why we love it
A simple, clever solution for giving your cat outdoor access without installing a full cat flap – ideal for renters or those after minimal fuss.

Pros

• Easy access for cats without a full flap install.

• Keeps window open just enough for pets, but not people.

• Great for daytime use when you’re out.

• Secure and safe

Cons

• Requires drilling into the window frame.

• Can be draughty in colder weather.

$59 at LockLatch

PetSafe Sliding Glass Cat and Dog Door Insert

$183.59

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Why we love it
A renter-friendly solution for sliding doors that gives your cat easy access without permanent alterations – just be sure to check with your landlord first.

Pros

• Ideal for homes with sliding doors.

• No need for drilling or permanent modification.

• Most users find it easy to install and use.

Cons

• May require small adjustments to fit properly.

• Landlord approval recommended.

$183.59 at Amazon

Whiskers & Windows Cat Door for Sash Windows

$235

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Why we love it
A smart, low-effort fix for sash window homes – this panel adds a secure cat door without permanent changes and even comes in colour options to match your frames.

Pros

• Designed specifically for sash windows.

• Easy to install with no drilling required.

• Four-way lockable pet door for added control.

• Available in two colourways.

Cons

• Only works with sash-style windows.

• Best to check with your landlord due to insurance considerations.

$235 at Dragon Pet Door

Self-Heating Microchip Cat Kennel

$189

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Why we love it
A cosy, secure outdoor hideaway for your cat – ideal if you can’t modify doors or windows. The microchip access adds an extra layer of safety and peace of mind.

Pros

• Landlord-friendly with no installation required.

• Microchip door allows access for your cat only.

• Keeps your cat warm and dry outdoors.

• Includes a one-way privacy window.

Cons

• Not a full access solution – your cat still needs letting in.

• Requires outdoor space for setup.

$189 at Home & Roost

Cat... elevator?

Is this safe? Maybe for people who live in a very, very low second floor flat. Even then... As a result, we’re going to go ahead and recommend that you don’t take the DIY elevator approach. Despite this TikTokker’s assurances in the comments that this sports bag is safer than a basket. That doesn’t mean you can’t watch the videos though.