Ideal Cat Flap Size For A Maine Coon

Many standard cat flaps are not large enough for this extra-large cat breed, so make sure you buy the right brand and size.

What Size Cat Flap Do Maine Coons Need?

Maine Coons require a cat flap that is between 8 and 13 inches wide and 8 to 17 inches tall. Measure your Maine Coon’s width and height before purchasing a cat flap, to ensure it is large enough to accommodate your cat’s size. Prevent unwanted visitors from entering the house by buying a microchip cat door.

The Maine Coon is the largest non-hybrid domesticated cat breed in the world, weighing between 12-22lbs, compared to normal cats that weigh 7-11lbs!

Maine Coons are large cats, so you’ll need to choose a cat flap that’s spacious enough for them to comfortably pass through. Due to their large size, most pet brands do not cater to this beautiful cat’s large size.

Here’s a general guideline for selecting the right size:

Width

The cat flap should be at least 8 inches wide. Some Maine Coons can be broader across the chest, so look for an even wider flap (up to 13 inches/) if needed.

Height

The height should be around 8-17 inches to ensure they can pass through easily. This accommodates their long, muscular bodies and allows them to move through without any discomfort.

Tunnel Depth

The tunnel or passage behind the cat flap should be deep enough to accommodate their body length (Maine Coons are long cats). A deeper tunnel (at least 5-6 inches) helps avoid any tight squeezes.

Things To Consider

• Sliding or Swinging Door: Choose a flap with a smooth, non-jamming mechanism. It should not be too stiff, as a Maine Coon will need to push through without difficulty.
• Weatherproofing: Since Maine Coons love exploring outside, a weatherproof cat flap will keep them comfortable, especially in colder weather, and prevent drafts.
• Locking Mechanism: Some Maine Coons can be clever at pushing through doors or getting into areas where they shouldn’t. Consider a cat flap with a secure locking mechanism to keep them safe.
• Look for a high-quality, sturdy flap to accommodate their large size and ensure they have easy access while remaining safe and secure.

Recommended Cat Flaps

Here are the top three best cat flaps for Maine Coon owners:

1. SureFlap

The SureFlap cat flap may be pricey, but it is the most popular choice for microchip cat doors.

You can program up to 15 different microchip codes into the door so that only your pets can enter and exit the house. It also comes with four different locking modes, and you can program the door to lock at certain times of the day.

You can even program it to close for certain cats and remain open for others!

The SureFlap microchip pet door hole size is about 7 inches by 7 inches. This is larger than the average cat door, but it may still be too small for the biggest Maine Coons.

Pros

• Program up to 15 different microchip codes.

• Four different locking features.

• Program different schedules for different pets.

2. PetSafe

The PetSafe cat flap is a cheaper alternative to the SureFlap, but you can still program it to read your pets’ microchips.

Like SureFlap, this microchip timer cat flap has different locking options, and it can program up to 40 different pets.

If you want a large cat flap with a tunnel, you can also purchase a tunnel extension pack, as well!

This is one of the top-rated microchip cat flaps out there. 

However, if you are anxious about potential injury to your Maine Coon, then it is best to go with a regular cat flap that does not automatically open or close.

Pros

• Program up to 40 different microchip codes.

• Four different locking features.

• Weatherproof

3. CEESC

CEESC Extra-Large Cat Door is a great budget option.

It does not read pet microchips like PetSafe or SureFlap, but it can still be programmed to different settings.

These four settings keep the cat door open, closed, or only allow your pet to go in or out.

Pros

• Four different locking options.

• Simple to install.

• Can use with a tunnel extension

Cons

• Not microchip programmable

How Do You Measure A Maine Coon?

Cat flaps should be two inches wider than your cat’s width, and two inches taller than your cat’s height.

Therefore, to ensure your cat flap is sized properly you need to measure your Maine Coon cat!

To properly measure your Maine Coon cat, follow these steps:

Gather Supplies

A soft, flexible measuring tape (or a piece of string that can be measured afterward).

A flat surface where your cat can stand comfortably.

Prepare Your Cat

Calm your cat down by petting them or using treats, ensuring they’re relaxed and cooperative.

Measuring Length

From nose to base of tail:

• Place your cat in a standing position, with their back straight and relaxed.
• Start at the tip of their nose (where their nose meets the forehead) and measure straight back to the base of the tail.
• Note the length in inches or centimeters.

Tip: Measure along the cat’s back, not over any curves or bends.

Measuring Height

From Floor to Shoulders:

• Have your cat stand on all fours.
• Measure from the floor to the top of their shoulder blades (not their head). This is the height of your Maine Coon.
• Measure straight up vertically, ensuring the tape is perpendicular to the floor.

Measuring Girth (Chest Size)

Around the Ribcage:

• Gently wrap the measuring tape around the widest part of your cat’s chest, right behind their front legs.
• Take a snug measurement but ensure it’s not too tight, allowing a little give for comfort.

Measuring Tail Length

Base of Tail to Tip:

• While your cat is standing, gently lift their tail, making sure it’s extended straight out.
• Measure from where the tail meets the body to the tip of the tail.

Weigh Your Cat (Optional but useful)

• Use a pet scale or your bathroom scale to weigh your Maine Coon.
• For accuracy, step on the scale holding your cat, then subtract your weight.

Double-Check Measurements

Ensure all measurements are taken in the correct position. Take at least two measurements to make sure you’re accurate.

By measuring your Maine Coon in these key areas, you’ll have a better understanding of their size and growth progress. This also helps when buying the right-sized bed, harness, or cat flap!

Teaching Your Cat To Use A Cat Door

Getting a Maine Coon cat to use a cat door may take some patience and gentle encouragement.

Here are some strategies to help your Maine Coon get comfortable with the cat door:

1. Choose The Right Size Door

Make sure the cat door is big enough for your Maine Coon. Since they are large cats, the door needs to be wide and tall enough for them to easily pass through without squeezing.

2. Place The Door In A Familiar Location

Install the cat door in a place your Maine Coon frequently passes, like between rooms they already spend time in. The familiarity of the location can help them feel more comfortable.

3. Leave The Door Open Initially

Start by keeping the cat door propped open (if it’s the swinging type). This allows your Maine Coon to get used to the presence of the door without the challenge of pushing it open.

4. Use Positive Reinforcement

Treats: Place treats on the other side of the cat door to encourage your Maine Coon to move toward it. Gradually, place the treats closer and closer to the opening until they associate the door with something positive.

Praise: Always praise your Maine Coon when they get near or interact with the door. Positive reinforcement encourages them to repeat the behavior.

5. Help Them Through The Door

If your Maine Coon is hesitant, gently guide them through the door at first. Open the door fully and encourage them to walk through it using treats, toys, or gentle coaxing.

Avoid forcing them through the door, as this could make them more scared or hesitant.

6. Use Their Favorite Toy

Place their favorite toy or a fun plaything just inside or outside the door. Maine Coons are playful, so the lure of a toy may get them to crawl through the door without even thinking about it.

7. Gradually Close The Door

After your cat is comfortable with walking through an open door, start closing the door slightly.

You can use a gentle nudge or tap on the door to encourage them to push it open. Gradually increase the door’s closure until they’re able to open it themselves.

8. Create A Routine

Try to incorporate the use of the cat door into your daily routine. Whether it’s going in and out of a room or outside, the more often your Maine Coon uses the door, the more natural it will feel. Routine helps reduce anxiety about the door.

9. Stay Calm And Patient

Maine Coons are intelligent but can be cautious with new things. If your cat seems scared or reluctant, don’t force them. Stay calm and patient, and keep encouraging them in a low-stress environment.

10. Ensure The Door Is Safe

Make sure there are no sharp edges or parts of the door that could harm your Maine Coon. A soft, non-threatening environment will help your cat feel safe using the door.

11. Let Them Explore On Their Own

Give your Maine Coon some time to explore the door without interference. Sometimes they’ll get curious on their own and try it out.

By combining these methods, your Maine Coon should gradually become more comfortable with the cat door, and it will become a natural part of their routine!