Pushing screens out of windows

kittymamashells

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Diego doesn't really claw holes into the screens, he more jumps on them which then pushes the whole screen/aluminum frame thing out of the window threshold and then tries to jump out the window. I officially cannot keep my windows open more than 3 inches because he has pushed all of the frames/screens out and I'm afraid he will jump out the window while I'm not home. Two part question:

1) Anyone know how to pull the aluminum frame back into the threshold from a second floor apartment?

2) Are there any clips or anything that will hold those puppies in place should Diego pounce on them?

I saw the post about baby gates, but my apartment is really old and the windows are not big enough for them.
 

larke

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As far as the frames go, I'd ask your super (unless you're afraid of his reaction). Otherwise, ask at the hardware (maybe in the kitchen sect.) if they have any kind of grate (usually made of iron covered in white rubber). You'll need to measure the space first, and if you can find something, you could then use wire or something at the edge pieces, the other end tied tight around screws or cuphooks or whatever, and fasten the hooks/screws to the inside of the window frame so even if he tries, he won't be able to dislodge the grating (have it inside the screen of course).
 

clpeters23

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I also live in a second floor apartment and when one of my cats was younger he used to run from across the room right into the patio door screen and it popped out of the track. Luckily I was home before he could escape.
Now, I only keep the patio door/windows open only an inch so they can't get out which was the only prevention I could think of.
 

jellybella

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I got adjustable window screens at walmart (lowes also had them). They go into the space under the window and protect the screen. I have to say, however, that my cats have not been as forceful with the windows as you describe, they have mostly just used them to stretch leaving nice holes...
Here's a link to what I'm talking about
http://hardware.hardwarestore.com/72...en-272880.aspx
 

clpeters23

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I remember one my cats, as a kitten, got stuck on the screen in the dining room window. He was hanging there quietly waiting for someone (me) to detach him. He never tried that again!
 

michael regan

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My cat regularly pushes through the corner of the screen on my patio door.  20 minutes to put back into place, 30 seconds for him to plow through again.  I inserted a "blind" made from a garbage bag into the corner to discourage him.  It lasted a very short period but once he figured out what he was, he pushed through again. Very frustrating when the air conditioning isn't working on a hot day.  I have yet to find a reasonable solution.
 

michael regan

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I'm thinking the only solution is to either block the bottom of the screen door with cardboard (short term solution) or plastic / plexiglass (long term solution), or replace with an upgraded door where the screen is not only pressure fit but attached to the frame. Does anyone else have any other idea?
 

detroitcatlady

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I'm not sure how this might work for you, but this is probably what I would try. I have this kind of thing on the outside of my windows for security. But something like this could easily be reversed inside to put in front of a screen or window.


I don't know if there is a way to secure those kinds of screens effectively, I would suggest using something on the inside of the window if possible to prevent the cat from pushing the screen loose or getting out of the window while it was open. Some kind of mesh or grate like I showed in the picture is probably your best way to do this. But this all depends on what your windows and window frames are like. Some security window protectors can be used this way but many of them are spaced too far apart to keep a cat from escaping. You may have to get creative and make your own if you can't find something at the store that would work for this purpose.
 
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misterwhiskers

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Have you considered buying one of those expanding screens made for Windows that lack screens, and just doubling up? I know they expand, but I'm sure you could wedge a dowel in there to keep it from being able to be pulled out.
 

michael regan

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Safety Gate option - thank you, Raina21

custom insert option - thank you, detroitcalady

expanding screen - another reasonable option , I'll have to see what is available - thank you, misterwhiskers

My biggest concern will be to maintain the functionality of the door as I will be expanding the outdoor deck and essentially the living space, so I don't want to created any hindrance to using the door.  I'll explaore and see waht may work.

Thank you all for the suggestions.
 
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