The Best Pet Gates
If you have pets at home, you know that gates play an integral role in keeping them safe and your home in good, clean shape. For example, you may need to keep your fur babies out of the kitchen while the hot stove is on. Or they may need to stay out of your bedroom to protect your freshly laundered sheets. No matter the reason, we've put in the work to help you find the best pet gate for your home today. Read on to review our well-researched picks.
What to Look For
Considering strength, size, and safety features, we gathered and reviewed the best pet gates to purchase on the market today. We found ourselves immediately impressed by the Regalo Easy Ste-Thru for its convenient doorway design and its customizable size. We were intrigued by the Cumbor Retractable gate as well, especially for homes with untraditional openings that need to be covered. You can learn more about each of these products, as well as our other favorites, on the list below.
Regalo Easy Step-Thru Pet Gate
Walk right through
This pet gate offers a sturdy pressure mounting system with a small door in the middle, so you don’t have to take the entire device down when a human needs to pass through. Wall cups are included for added safety as well as drywall protection. The gate itself comes with expansion pieces, allowing for a secure fit between 29 and 34 inches, as well as between 35 and 38.5 inches. It works well in regular doorways, hallways, and at the bottom of staircases.
Pros:
- Reasonably priced
- No tools required for assembly or adjustments
- Meet safety standards for pets and young children
Cons:
- Will not fit openings between 34 and 35″
Carlson Extra Tall Pet Gate
No jumping allowed
If your pet is a jumper, the extra height on this gate is a must. It measures 36 inches high and can be adjusted to fit widths between 29 and 36.5 inches. The small pet door in the middle is perfect for homes with free-range cats as well as pups that need a bit more containment. The pressure-mounting system is sturdy and easy to install. And the walk-through door has a few helpful features, such as a child safety lock and the ability to close on its own.
Pros:
- Chew-proof steel material
- Wall protection included
- Cat door can be closed if needed
Cons:
- Higher than average price
Cumbor Retractable Indoor/Outdoor Pet Gate
Place it anywhere
This retractable gate is ideal for odd spaces, including wooden stair banisters that don’t line up evenly with each other. The material is waterproof, making it a great choice for decks if needed. The fabric expands from 33″ to 55″ to cover openings of all shapes and sizes. And since the latches screw into your walls or stair posts, you can trust them to stay sturdily in place through years of use.
Pros:
- Open and close with one hand
- Neutral colors such as gray, white, and black are available
- All tools needed for assembly are included
Cons:
- Requires screwing into walls
PetMaker Freestanding Wooden Pet Gate
Set and go
If you want to block off a certain space in your home, such as a fireplace or child’s play area, this freestanding gate can be a good option. Its folding wooden design covers areas between 45 and 60 inches wide. And when it’s not being used, simply fold it up and tuck it away until you need it. The clear feet on the bottom work to both protect your floors and prevent tipping. And with the gaps being only 2 inches wide, you can rest assured that even your smallest pets will not be able to sneak through.
Pros:
- Attractive design
- Arrives pre-assembled
- Three wood finishes to choose from
Cons:
- Takes up more space than the average pet gate
Summer Modern Home Decorative Pet Gate
Fashionable fix
This pet gate is designed with style in mind. The espresso and gray finish options, patterned door, and arched top complement most decor. It pressure mounts to the wall and includes protective pieces to prevent any drywall damage. What’s more, the two expansion pieces can allow for adjustments between 28 and 42 inches. A child-lock and aut0-close feature add to the safety and convenience of this device as well.
Pros:
- Durable, powder-coated finish
- Easy to install and take down if pressure mounted
- Can be opened with one hand
Cons:
- Drill required if mounting at the top of a staircase
Frequently Asked Questions
Do pet gates stay closed if dogs jump on them?
Most of these gates will stay closed with occasional jumps. If your pet is on the larger side or if they regularly jump on the gate, you may need to drill the attachments to the wall instead of using the pressure mounting system. You may also want to consider purchasing an extra-tall gate.
Do pet gates keep cats contained?
Cats are often trickier to contain than dogs. If you want to try using a gate, be sure they can’t squeeze through the slats. Also, try to avoid placing the gate near upraised, flat surfaces like tables or countertops since your pet can jump on those to get over the gate.
About the Author
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Since 2008, CatTime has provided millions of cat owners with all the information they need to keep their pets happy and healthy. Our experts know exactly what it takes to raise our furry friends and our goal is to help all owners, new or experienced, care for their cats with all the right food, toys, equipment, and accessories.