Protecting Your Screen Door From Your Pets

July 1st, 2026

Key Takeaway

Pets can damage screen doors through scratching, clawing and impact. The most effective long-term solution is a 316 marine grade stainless steel security screen with a pet door option, which withstands pet damage that destroys standard fly screens and aluminium mesh screens. Short term options include scratch deterrent spray, training techniques and physical barriers while you transition to a permanent solution

Why Pets Damage Screen Doors 

Screen doors take the brunt of pet behaviour from cats scratching to sharpen their claws, dogs charging through or paw at the mesh, and even well-trained animals cause accidental damage over time. Standard fly screens and lightweight aluminium mesh screens are particularly vulnerable, with aluminium mesh tearing easily under claws or impact.

How do I stop my cat scratching the screen door?

A few approaches work depending on your cat and how set in their ways they are:

• Scratch deterrent spray – Available at most pet stores, it’s odourless until scratched, then releases a smell cats dislike. Spray directly on the door and reapply for a few weeks until the behaviour stops.
• Water bottle training – Spritz your cat with water the moment they start scratching. Requires you to be present but effective with consistent application.
• Scratching post – If your cat needs an outlet for clawing, give them one. Combine with deterrent on the door to redirect the behaviour rather than just suppress it.
• Trim their claws – Reduces damage from accidental contact and is recommended practice regardless.

How do I stop my dog damaging the screen door?

For dogs the issue is usually impact rather than scratching, a large breed charging or pawing at a lightweight flyscreen will push straight through it. Physical barriers work short term (low furniture blocking access to the door) but aren’t a permanent fix.

What is the best pet proof screen door?

The most effective long-term solution is a security screen made from 316 marine grade stainless steel mesh. Unlike standard flyscreens or aluminium mesh screens, 316 marine grade stainless steel is independently tested to AS5039-2023 for knife shear, pull, impact and anti-jemmy resistance, the same properties that make it resistant to pet damage.

CommandeX security screens including SecureView Eclipx, SaltWaterSeries, Xceed and BasiX are all available with pet door options. The 316 marine grade mesh and patented keyway fixing system means the mesh stays locked in the frame regardless of how hard a dog hits it or how persistently a cat claws at it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will a security screen stop my dog from pushing through?

Yes, a 316 marine grade stainless steel security screen tested to AS5039-2023 will withstand impact from even large breeds. Standard flyscreens and aluminium mesh screens will not.

Can cats scratch through stainless steel mesh?

No. The 316 marine grade stainless steel mesh used in CommandeX security screens has a tensile strength of 940 MPa which means cat claws cannot penetrate or damage it.

Do CommandeX screens come with a pet door?

Yes. Pet door options are available across the SecureView Eclipx, SaltWaterSeries, Xceed and BasiX ranges.