Cats love to sit on windowsills and watch the birds (or the neighbor’s cat). Some cats may even love the idea of going outside, even if they aren’t allowed outside much of the time. However, our cats are unaware of the dangers that windows can pose, especially those on upper floors.

It’s our job to protect our cats with window guards and screens. You shouldn’t just trust any cat window guard, though. It’s important to get something tried and tested.

We reviewed some of the most popular cat window guards and screens available. These should provide a solution to keeping just about any cat safe.

A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites in 2026

	Image	Product	Details
Best Overall		Fenestrelle Expandable Window Screen	Can be used horizontally or vertically Weather stripping keeps bugs outside Durable aluminum frame	CHECK PRICE
Best Value		Tooltriz Pet Proof Window Screen Replacement Kit	Higher tensile strength to withstand cat claws Comes with everything you need Maintains good airflow	CHECK PRICE
Premium Choice		WAOWAO Black Window Safety Guards	Two sizes available Very easy installation Doesn’t damage your wall	CHECK PRICE
		Mewtogo Pet-Proof Window Screen Replacement	Thick polyester Can be bought in a repair kit More resistant than standard screens to cat claws	CHECK PRICE
		Magzo Pet Proof Window Screen Replacement	More scratch-resistant than standard screens Cheaper repair option Maintains ventilation and visibility	CHECK PRICE

The 6 Best Cat Window Guards & Screens

1. Fenestrelle Expandable Window Screen – Best Overall

The Fenestrelle Expandable Window Screen is an adjustable window screen that can fit just about any window size. It’s made with a strong, powder-coated aluminum frame and a fiberglass screen, making it durable and nice to look at. The weather stripping along the top and bottom keeps the bugs outside while keeping your cat inside.

You can use the screen horizontally or vertically. Thanks to the three sizes, you can find an option that fits your window best, making the fit much tighter (and preventing cats from knocking it down). Of course, if you have windows of different sizes, you may need to purchase several different sizes.

These are a bit more expensive than other options. However, their ease of installation makes the price far worth it, in our opinion. Plus, they’re adjustable enough to fit just about any window, even those of non-standard sizes. Still, this is easily the best overall cat window screen available.

2. Tooltriz Pet Proof Window Screen Replacement Kit – Best Value

The Tooltriz Pet Proof Window Screen Replacement Kit is designed to address a common pet owner woe: torn window screens from feline antics. If you have a damaged screen already, you may not need to replace it completely. Instead, replace the screen with this cat-proof replacement kit.

The thicker fiberglass mesh stands up better for clawing than your standard mesh, making it great for cats that tend to paw at the window. Most cat owners who tried it reported that it was much stronger than your typical window screen.

You will need to DIY the replacement, though. It’s more effort than using the adjustable screen above, but it is also much cheaper. The kit also includes everything you need for the replacement, including a spline and rolling tool. Because it’s so inexpensive, it’s easily the best cat window screen for the money.

3. WAOWAO Black Window Safety Guards – Premium Choice

The WaoWao Black Window Safety Guards are primarily designed to prevent children from falling through windows and injuring themselves. However, they can also be a sturdy option for anyone who owns a bigger cat. It’s made from high-density steel pipes, making it one of the tougher options on this list. Because it’s designed to handle the weight of a child, the weight of a cat is no issue.

Installation is very easy. No drilling is required, so you can remove it at any time without damaging your walls. However, the space between the bars is rather large, so small cats may be able to fit through. There is also a chance that the cat may jump over the guard, so we wouldn’t recommend this for smaller cats. It really only works for certain felines.

That said, if your cat is larger and your window shorter, then this guard is about as good as you can find.

4. Mewtogo Pet-Proof Window Screen Replacement

The Mewtogo Pet-Proof Window Screen Replacement is made of heavy-duty polyester. It’s thicker and more durable than your typical fiberglass, allowing it to withstand your cat’s claws a bit better. While it isn’t 100% claw-proof, it will last longer than your typical window screen.

This screen comes in a roll that you cut and attach to your screen. There is some DIY involved. However, most cat owners found it pretty straightforward. You can buy a kit with everything you need in it or just the mesh by itself.

If the screen is ever torn, it’s easy to replace it once more. However, a single roll should last you quite a while, and the lower price is a nice added benefit.

5. Magzo Pet Proof Window Screen Replacement

If you already have a screen frame, you can easily replace the screen using the Magzo Pet Proof Window Screen Replacement. This screen is made out of vinyl-coated polyester, which surpasses traditional window screens. It’s more durable against your cat’s claws, making it a great option if your cat has already gone through your window screen.

Of course, you will need to use your DIY skills to install this screen. It isn’t as straightforward as other options. However, it can be cut to fit just about any window, so you don’t have to worry about sizing.

Unlike other replacement screens on this list, this option doesn’t include any of the tools you need. You’ll need to purchase those separately to make installation possible. Consider this when comparing prices.

6. Lengtimo 304 Stainless Steel Mesh Window Screen

You can get more durable than the Lengtimo 304 Stainless Steel Mesh Window Screen. This screen is incredibly durable thanks to its stainless-steel design. Stainless steel is highly resistant to tearing and puncturing, making it a great choice for harsh environments or areas with potential rodent problems. However, its strength might not necessarily translate to cat-proofing.

It’s very hard for cats to get through this window screen. However, it is very easy for them to get their claws hung up. This can be potentially dangerous and painful, especially if the cat pulls hard enough to rip their claw off.

For this reason, this window screen is lower on our list. While it is very durable, there is also a slight safety risk compared to other screens.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Cat Window Guard and Screens

Letting fresh air in while keeping your curious cat safely indoors can be a challenge. Standard window screens are easily damaged by feline claws. We’ve all lost a screen to a curious cat!

Luckily, cat-proof window screens and guards are an easy solution. There are many options available, though. It’s important to choose the right one for your needs. We’ll look at how to navigate your options below.

Take Stock

First, it’s important to figure out why you need a window screen and what exactly you have to work with. Does your cat claw considerably at your screen, or do you not have a screen, to begin with? Not all cats bother screens, so a regular screen may work well for many. However, if your cat has proven that they tend to tear up screens, something a bit more specialized may be necessary.

You’ll also need to consider how you want your window to look. Screens provide better visibility than bulkier guards, and many modern window screens work very well. Therefore, we highly recommend them for most cat owners, though guards still have their place.

Many of the screens on our list above do require some DIY skills and a screen frame to put them on. If you want an easier installation (or don’t have the DIY skills required), consider getting our top pick, which is very easy to install. Getting a professional to install the screens can take some of the work out of your hands. However, it also adds to the price of the project.

There isn’t a cat window screen or guard that works best for everyone. Therefore, it’s important to choose the option that works best for you based on your skills, preferences, and needs.

Sizing

It’s important that whatever screen or guard you purchase fits your window well. Otherwise, it isn’t going to do you much good. A poorly fitting screen can provide a false sense of security, potentially making the window more dangerous for your cat.

Measure your window and ensure you purchase a screen that fits those measurements. Most screens and windows have standard sizes, making it easier to find something that fits. However, some windows may be custom, making it harder to find a good option. In these cases, you may need to DIY a screen to fit your window.

Some screens do provide custom options, though. If you have a custom window size, these are absolutely the easiest options, though they will limit your choices substantially.

Screens vs. Guards

For the vast majority of cat owners, screens are the way to go. They maintain airflow and provide visibility. There’s a reason most homes today have window screens and not window guards!

Reinforced fiberglass mesh works best for most cats. It’s very durable and resistant to cat’s claws. Plus, it’s relatively inexpensive compared to some of the alternatives.

That said, guards still have their place. They provide superior strength and prevent escape. Most include steel bars that provide extra security, though some cats will figure out how to get around these. Most guards aren’t made for pets, in particular. So, it’s important to pay attention to the spacing between the bars and how high those bars go.

Installation

In most cases, you’ll be the one putting the screen or guard onto the window. Therefore, how easy it is to install it becomes very important. Permanently attached screens and guards are often the best option, as they’re more secure.

However, these options almost always require some level of DIYing. You may even need to screw directly into your wall if you’re installing a guard, which can permanently damage it.

Spring-loaded screens and guards are typically easier to install. However, they might not work on all window and wall types. Plus, they are easier for your cat to push against and dislodge, potentially making them more dangerous, too.

Material

There are several materials your window screen or guard could be made in. Fiberglass mesh is one of the more common options and the one we recommend. However, we do recommend getting a reinforced variety, especially if your cat has already torn through a window screen. These are thicker and more resistant to scratching.

Stainless steel mesh is also available, and it may seem like a good idea. After all, stainless steel is very durable. However, it often isn’t designed explicitly for cats and may cause their nails to snag, which can be painful. It isn’t our top choice for cats for this reason.

Most window guards are made out of steel bars. In this case, the material matters far less than the spacing of the bars. You don’t want your cat to fit through it, which is true for most guards. Remember, if your cat’s head can fit between the bars, they’ll find a way to squeeze the rest of their body in (unless they are obese).

Our Cat Window Guards & Screens Selection Process

Catster’s dedicated team of writers and editors collaborate with expert veterinarians, considering a wide range of factors when selecting the best window guards and screens for cats. These parameters include customer reviews, brand reputation, veterinary experience, and in some cases, hands-on testing. Of course, our cats have a say in the process, too! We strive to select and review the highest-quality products available, to help you choose the best possible product and make the most informed decision for your and your cat’s needs.

Why Trust Catster?

Catster has been a trusted online brand since 2001, so we know a thing or two about window guards and screens. We’re a team of cat-loving writers, editors, and veterinarians dedicated to helping you make the most informed decision for your feline. We deeply believe in providing the best information for cat owners to help their cats live their best life possible. We look at reviews from the most trusted sources available, and this, combined with our veterinary team’s experience and expertise, helps us gather the best options on the market. Our team is invested in the welfare and health of cats around the world, and believe that expert knowledge is one of the best ways to achieve this.

Conclusion

Use your cat’s temperament, your priorities, and your DIY comfort level to choose the best cat window screen or guard for you. We highly recommend the Fenestrelle Expandable Window Screen for most users. It’s very easy to install and adjustable, making it a great option for practically all cat owners.

If you just need to replace the mesh on your screen (thanks to your cats’ claws), we recommend the Tooltriz Pet Proof Window Screen Replacement Kit. This kit does require some DIYing. However, it’s a cheaper and very durable option.

If you’d rather have a window guard, the WaoWao Black Window Safety Guards are a great option. This guard may not work for all cats, though, as the spacing isn’t exceptionally small. It can also reduce visibility and isn’t the most aesthetic choice. One of these options should work for just about every cat owner.

• See Also: How to Cat Proof Windows With 9 Simple Tips

Featured Image Credit: cabuscaa, Shutterstock