What Size Cat Flap Does A Maine Coon Need? (Exact Measurements Guide)
Choosing the right cat flap size for a Maine Coon is essential, and it is one of the most common mistakes owners make.
Most standard cat flaps are designed for average-sized cats and are simply too small for a Maine Coon’s large frame, broad chest, and long body.
This often leads to problems such as:
- Cats refusing to use the flap
- Getting stuck or squeezing through uncomfortably
- Long-term stress or avoidance
Because Maine Coons are one of the largest domestic cat breeds, they require a larger-than-standard cat flap, often closer in size to those designed for small dogs.
Understanding exactly what size cat flap a Maine Coon needs will help you:
- Choose the correct model the first time
- Avoid expensive installation mistakes
- Ensure your cat can move freely and comfortably
In this guide, you’ll learn the exact measurements required, how to measure your cat properly, and which types of cat flaps actually work for large breeds.
Quick Answer
A Maine Coon typically needs an extra-large cat flap with an opening of at least 18-20 cm (7-8 inches) wide and tall. Standard cat flaps are usually too small, so larger “pet doors” designed for big cats or small dogs are recommended to ensure comfortable and safe access.
Why A Cat Flap Is Essential
A cat flap isn’t just a convenience; it can transform daily life for you and your cat. Here’s why:
- Freedom And Independence
Maine Coons are naturally curious and adventurous. A cat flap allows them to move freely between indoors and outdoors, giving them mental and physical stimulation without relying on you to constantly open doors. - Stress Reduction
Maine Coons dislike feeling trapped. A cat flap provides them with control over their environment, reducing frustration and stress-related behaviors like scratching at doors or loud meowing. - Better Exercise And Weight Management
With males weighing up to 18-22 lb (8.2-10 kg) and females 12-15 lb (5.4-6.8 kg), according to TICA’s official Maine Coon breed standard, exercise is crucial to maintaining a healthy weight. A flap encourages regular outdoor play and exploration. - Cleaner, Healthier Home
Outdoor access via a cat flap reduces litter box use, cutting down on odor, dust, and mess. You’ll spend less time scooping and more time enjoying your cat. - Security For You And Your Cat
Modern cat flaps with microchip recognition ensure only your pet enters, keeping out strays, wildlife, or even neighborhood cats that might otherwise sneak in. - Adaptability For Multi-Pet Homes
If you own other cats, a cat flap designed for your Maine Coon ensures all cats can safely pass through without obstruction.
How Big Do Maine Coons Really Get?
Maine Coons are famous for being the largest non-hybrid domestic cat breed.
According to the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) and The International Cat Association (TICA):
- Males: 18-22 lb (8.2-10 kg), though some exceptional males weigh even more.
- Females: 12-15 lb (5.4-6.8 kg).
- Height: Typically 10-16 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Length: Up to 40 inches long from nose to tail tip.
- Growth: Unlike most cats, Maine Coons grow slowly and may not reach their full size until 3-5 years of age.
The Maine Coon cat’s large size makes choosing the right cat flap essential. As you can see, what works for an average domestic shorthair weighing 8-10 lbs is simply too small for a Maine Coon.
How To Measure Maine Coon For A Cat Flap
Measuring ensures your cat can use the flap comfortably for years to come.
Step 1: Measure Width
Measure across the widest part of your cat’s body (usually their chest or hips). Add at least 1-2 inches for comfort.
Step 2: Measure Height
Measure from the floor to your cat’s shoulders. The bottom of the cat flap should be at this height so your Maine Coon can step through without crouching.
Step 3: Consider Kittens Vs Adults
- Kittens: Add an extra 2 inches to both width and height measurements to account for growth. Maine Coons grow very large and need future-proofing.
- Adults: For most Maine Coons, a flap at least 8-13 inches wide and 8-17 inches tall is required.
Step 4: Account For Tunnel Depth
The tunnel (the section between the two flap doors) should be at least 5-6 inches deep, so your Maine Coon’s body does not feel squeezed as they pass through.
Step 5: Test With Cardboard
Cut a cardboard square to the measured dimensions and place it at door level. Watch your cat walk through to confirm sizing before you purchase a cat flap.
Useful Tips: Choosing & Installing A Cat Flap
- Go Large, Not Small: It is better to oversize than undersize; your cat will thank you!
- Choose A Microchip Cat Flap: These recognize your cat’s chip and prevent intruders. Essential for households in busy neighborhoods.
- Weatherproofing Matters: A poorly insulated flap will bring in drafts to your home. Look for models with brush seals and magnetic closures.
- Quiet Mechanism: Maine Coons are sensitive to noise. Pick a cat flap that opens smoothly without loud clicks or snaps.
- Training Is Key: Use treats and praise to help your Maine Coon associate the flap with positive experiences. Start with the flap taped open before introducing the full swing.
- Consider Placement: If your door or wall installation is high, build a small step for easy access, especially for kittens or senior cats.
- Check Weight Limits: Some pet doors are specifically designed for dogs and may accommodate larger breeds, such as Maine Coons, better than cat-specific models. Look for large dog flaps if necessary.
Best Cat Flaps
The best microchip cat flaps combine security, convenience, and comfort.
They prevent intruders from entering, give you control over when your cat can come and go, and in some models, even connect to an app so you can track your pet’s movements.
1. SureFlap Microchip Pet Door Connect (Without Hub)
This is a large microchip-activated cat flap designed by Sure Petcare. It recognizes a cat’s implanted microchip (or RFID collar tag) and only lets authorized pets inside.
The “Connect” model can be paired with a Hub (sold separately) to unlock smart features like app notifications, remote locking/unlocking, and monitoring when your cat comes and goes.
Sold without the Hub, this version works perfectly well as a standalone microchip cat flap — you can always add the Hub later if you want smart-home style control.
The SureFlap cat flap may be pricey, but it is the most popular choice for microchip cat doors.
- Program up to 15 different microchip codes into the door so only your pets can enter and exit the house.
- Four different locking features/modes.
- Approximately 7 inches by 7 inches
- Program different schedules for different pets – you can program the door to lock at certain times of the day.
- You can program it to close for certain cats and remain open for others!
Why it’s great for large Cats:
- Bigger Than Standard Cat Flaps
Most microchip cat flaps (like the SureFlap “Cat Flap” or PetSafe models) are tiny – typically ~5″ square, which is too small for a Maine Coon. This “Pet Door” is the largest in the SureFlap range, making it one of the very few that can accommodate larger breeds. - Broad Shoulder Clearance
With a 170 mm width, it gives more shoulder room than typical cat flaps. Many Maine Coon owners report success because their cats can actually fit without squeezing uncomfortably. - Tall Opening
The 178 mm height means taller cats don’t need to crouch as low to get through. This helps big, long-bodied cats like Maine Coons pass more naturally. - Microchip Security
Recognizes up to 32 different pets, blocking strays and neighborhood cats from entering your home. Essential if you feed premium food that would otherwise attract unwanted guests. - Curfew Mode
Let’s you set automatic times when the door locks/unlocks – e.g., keeps your Maine Coon indoors overnight without you needing to remember to lock it. - Future-Proof with Smart Features
If you decide to buy the Hub later, you’ll unlock app-based controls, activity logs, and notifications – very handy for keeping track of a free-roaming cat. - Flexible Installation
Works in wood, uPVC, metal, glass, or brick walls with the right adapters and tunnel extenders – versatile for different homes.
| Summary | Size |
|---|---|
| Flap Opening (clear passage your cat squeezes through) | 6 ¾″ (170 mm) wide × 7″ (178 mm) high |
| Overall Door Frame Size (outer dimensions of the unit) | 10 ¼″ (262 mm) wide × 11 ⅛″ (281 mm) high |
| Tunnel Depth | 2 ¾″ (70 mm) (can be extended with a tunnel extender if installing in thick doors or walls) |
| Cut-Out Size (hole you need to cut in the door/wall) | Square/rectangular: 8 ½″ (207 mm) × 9″ (234 mm) Circular (for glass): ~11 ½″ (300 mm) diameter |
2. Ferplast Pet Swing Door
The Ferplast Swing 15 is designed for large cats and small dogs, offering a sturdy, user-friendly entrance with ample space and thermal protection.
It features a reliable four-way locking system, allowing you to set it to:
- entry only
- exit only
- both ways
- fully locked
This gives you flexible control over your pet’s movements.
The unit is built with the Wind-Stopper System, a clever insulation system that reduces drafts and helps maintain a comfortable indoor temperature even when the flap is open.
Its installation is versatile: you can fit it into wood, metal, glass, or brick walls, and the included tunnel can be trimmed by up to 5 cm to accommodate thicker panels.
| Measurement | Metric (cm) | Imperial (inches) |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Frame Width | 41.2 cm | 16.2″ |
| Overall Frame Height | 48.2 cm | 19.0″ |
| Tunnel Depth | 9.6 cm | 3.8″ |
| Clear Passage Width | 29.7 cm | 11.7″ |
| Clear Passage Height | 34.5 cm | 13.6″ |
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right cat flap for a Maine Coon is not just about convenience; it is about comfort, safety, and usability.
Standard cat flaps are usually too small for this breed, which is why most owners need to upgrade to an extra-large model or pet door designed for bigger animals.
The key takeaway is simple:
- Always choose larger than you think ✔️
- Measure your cat before buying ✔️
- Prioritise width and height, not just brand ✔️
A correctly sized cat flap ensures your Maine Coon can move freely without stress, making it one of the most important setup decisions you will make for your home.
FAQ
1. What size cat flap is best for a Maine Coon?
An extra-large cat flap with an opening of at least 18-20 cm (7-8 inches) in both width and height is recommended for most Maine Coons. Smaller flaps are often too restrictive.
2. Are standard cat flaps big enough for Maine Coons?
No, most standard cat flaps (around 14 x 12 cm) are designed for average cats and are too small for a Maine Coon’s size.
Look for:
- Extra-large or “pet door” models
- Microchip-controlled flaps for security
- Wide and tall openings for shoulder clearance
These are often marketed for large cats or small dogs.
4. Can Maine Coons fit through microchip cat flaps?
Most standard microchip cat flaps are too small. However, larger versions (often called “microchip pet doors”) are suitable and designed for bigger cats.
5. How do I measure my Maine Coon for a cat flap?
You should measure:
- Width: The widest part of the chest or hips
- Height: from shoulders to underside of chest
Then add a few centimetres to ensure comfortable clearance.
6. What happens if the cat flap is too small?
If a flap is too small, your Maine Coon may:
- Refuse to use it
- Get stuck or stressed
- Develop anxiety around entering or exiting
7. Are cat flaps for small dogs suitable for Maine Coons?
Yes, many owners choose cat flaps designed for small dogs because they provide the extra width and height needed for large breeds like Maine Coons.
