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Why Do Cats Hate Closed Doors?

Name: Door Buddy® Dog Plus Door Stopper
Brand: The Door Buddy
SKU: DB-DOG-GDSC
Price: 19.97 USD
Availability: InStock

By: Door Buddy Editors | Published: 24 June, 2024

It’s a common scenario, you’re in the bathroom with the door shut, minding your own business. Then suddenly you hear your cat’s frantic scratching and meowing outside the door.

If you have ever opened a door for a cat and made the mistake of closing it behind them, you very quickly learn that a closed-door is something that cats hate.

Your cat’s dislike of closed doors can be very frustrating, but there are some genuine reasons behind those cat meows. We're here to shed some light and answer the question ‘Why do cats hate closed doors?’

Why Do Cats Not Like Closed Doors?

1. Cats Are Social Creatures

Cats are often thought of as being independent creatures who are quite happy living solitary lives, but this is not true. Cats, like humans, enjoy company and love getting attention. And, who are we to deny them of these “purrfect” cuddles?

Consequently, they like to be involved in whatever it is you’re doing. If you’re hiding behind a closed door then, for all they know, they could be missing out on a great activity with their favorite person.

“Cat-astrophe”!

A curious cat peeks from behind a partially open door, its eyes wide with curiosity.

2. Cats Are Curious

Whether you have an indoor cat or one that also enjoys going outside, this is a common “paw-blem”. They say, "curiosity killed the cat", and we can't deny that there is truth to it.

Cats always want to know what is going on which is one of the biggest reasons why cats hate closed doors. Whether you're running to the bathroom or filling up your coffee cup, your curious kitty won't be too far away.

The problem with this is that when your cat comes across a closed door it's like putting a steak in front of a doggo and asking them not to eat it - trouble!

When your cat encounters a closed-door their curiosity is immediately piqued, especially if they hear a noise on the other side of it.

This is often the reason that some notice that their cats become more needy when they introduce a mini human to their home. Cats and babies can be friends but it's an adjustment period. For this reason, we always recommend following our introducing cats to babies guide.

3. Cats are territorial

Territorial instincts are huge in cats, regardless if they’re indoor or outdoor pets. In the wild, boundaries are essential for cats, and they’ll guard them at all times. So, when a door gets shut, they feel as if their boundaries aren’t being respected, which causes distress.

If your cat usually runs the house, then they will consider your entire home to be their territory. When adding a barrier to your cat’s space, it’s common to see them become distraught.

Closing a door prevents them from accessing all parts of their own territory, which is something that territorial creatures hate! Understanding this could be the main answer to "why do cats meow at closed doors".

Reasons Why You Should Keep Doors Open For Your Cat

Cats hating closed doors is possibly one of the weirder cat behaviors. Others include why cats hate water and their need to blep at everything. At the end of the day, leaving doors wide open around your home helps your cat feel comfortable in their environment.

If doors are open, your cat knows that they are not trapped and that they can join you whenever they feel like it. Most importantly, keeping doors open around the home can help your cat feel comfortable with their day-to-day activities.

If they know that they can access their food, water, and most importantly, their litter box at all times, your cat can become a lot more relaxed. This helps to prevent your kitty from going hungry or having any toilet-related accidents; which can be a nightmare to clean up.

A curious cat peeks out from behind a partially open door, showcasing its inquisitive expression.

However, if your cat is having trouble using their litter box, here is our advice about what to do if your cat’s not using the litter box. An added bonus is that keeping the door open is a great way to get your cat to trust you. Gaining your cat's trust is a huge step in cementing your A-grade “pawrent” status. Here are 5 ways to get your cat to trust you.

All in all, an open door policy around your home will equate to a much happier, healthier, and less stinky cat.

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How To Stop Cat Meowing At Closed Door

Leaving doors open around your home can cause problems, particularly in homes where there are children and other pets such as dogs. If you've got a doggo who likes to snack from the litter box, then you know exactly what we mean!

Not to mention the fact that installing an interior pet door or using something like a baby gate is not only a hassle to set up or install, but it is also inconvenient and cumbersome to use for both you and your cat.

Thankfully, there is a solution that's so simple and so effective that it's gotten over 25,000 5-star reviews on Amazon! We'd like to introduce you to Door Buddy.

How does the Door Buddy Work?

Door Buddy offers an adjustable door strap that prevents your door from closing fully. It keeps the door open just enough for your cat to get through while keeping the door closed enough to keep toddlers and dogs out. All you have to do is adjust the strap to suit the width of your cat and you're in pet-proofing heaven.

Conclusion: Why Do Cats Hate Closed Doors?

So why do cats meow at closed doors, and why do cats hate closed doors so much?

Cats don’t like closed doors because of curiosity, FOMO, and territory. It could be a combination of all three for some cats, but for others, it could just be one that’s causing concern.

If your cat doesn't like closed doors, Door Buddy’s Door Strap is a must for you!

FIND THE BEST DOOR BUDDY FOR YOUR HOME

Tired of playing door referee? Door Buddy gives you an easy way to control access in your home, from curious cats to energetic dogs to busy little humans. Find the right fit below and take back control of your space.