I'd like to screen in my deck -just being built now but have 5 cats.

Julie Campbell
by Julie Campbell
I need advice on cat proof canvas, screening , whatever anyone can suggest to make this bug proof without having to repair rips all the time. The deck is 9'x14'.
Thanks, Julie Campbell

  6 answers
  • There are more screen products available today, yay! I would get the heaviest duty screen material you can buy. And teach the cats not to climb the screens. Yes it can be done but be patient. Your contractor should be able to help you select too. Make sure you have installed in such a manner that the screening can easily be replaced if necessary.

  • A A on Jun 24, 2017

    We used a very durable screening (not metal) and had it installed by a professional. Our screen enclosure is vaulted to about 12 feet and my 15 lb cat climbs it without any problem. She even sits on the outside of the enclosure on a top panel (see also walks across it - she like heights). No rips, no holes, no sagging, no nothing. We've had it for 4 years (it's guaranteed for 3 years and is supposed to last 15) and with the exception of my boo boo with the pressure washer, it's still looks like it did when it was installed.


    The brand is Phifer http://www.phifer.com/

  • Nancy Turner Nancy Turner on Jun 24, 2017

    Our lanai was made with heavy duty non metal screening and other than the dog going through the door a couple of times to try to get at critters, it had no damage from the cat, or the hurricane that went through in the nineties and the no name storms.

  • Lisa Falkenthal Lisa Falkenthal on Jun 24, 2017

    They do sell 'Pet Proof' screening. Don't know how well it works. As a cat owner, I would suggest an initial layer of hardware cloth on the inside of the screen, maybe separated by a strip pf molding.

  • Julie Campbell Julie Campbell on Jun 24, 2017

    Thanks for all the great suggestions. Will definitely look into these products.