Pet Gates

Frequently asked questions

• How do I measure for a pet gate?

  Measure the width of the opening at the point where the gate will sit, since door frames and walls aren't always perfectly even. Each gate fits within a stated range, for example 74 to 100cm or 75 to 115cm for the wide options, so check your measurement falls inside that range before buying. It's worth measuring at the height the gate will mount too, as some gaps narrow towards the floor or skirting.

• What's the difference between pressure-fit and screw-fit gates?

  Pressure-fit gates wedge into place using tension, so there's no drilling and no marks left behind, which makes them great for doorways, rented homes and anywhere you might want to move the gate. Screw-fit gates bolt to the wall for a more permanent, sturdier hold. As a general rule, screw-fit is the recommended choice at the top of stairs, while pressure-fit is fine for room dividers and lower-risk spots.

• Are these gates suitable for the top of the stairs?

  For the top of stairs, a securely fixed gate is the safest option, so look for screw-fit models or the wide stair gates designed for that purpose. Pressure-fit gates are better suited to the bottom of stairs and doorways, since a determined push is less of a risk there. Always follow the fitting instructions closely and check the gate is firm before relying on it, especially with a strong or large dog.

• Will a pet gate work for cats as well as dogs?

  Most of these gates are aimed at dogs, and many cats can jump or climb over a standard gate, so they're less reliable for keeping a cat confined. That said, the pressure-fit gate with a built-in small cat door is designed for multi-pet homes, letting the cat come and go through its own opening while the dog stays put. For other small animals, the freestanding barriers and playpens can help section off a safe area.

• Do the gates come with a door I can walk through?

  Many do. Several of the metal gates have a walk-through door with an auto-close mechanism, so it swings shut behind you, which saves bending down or stepping over every time. Some also feature double locking for extra security. The freestanding folding barriers work differently, acting as a movable screen rather than a hinged gate, so check each product page for how that particular model opens.

• Can I use these to make a playpen or block a wide space?

  Yes. The multi-panel folding playpens and freestanding wooden barriers are built for exactly that, with some stretching up to 432cm to pen off a larger area or span a wide opening. They're useful for giving a puppy a safe zone, blocking off an open-plan space, or creating a temporary enclosure. Because they're freestanding, you can fold and store them away when they're not needed.

• Are the pet gates easy to fit?

  The pressure-fit gates are quick to set up, usually just a case of adjusting the tension fittings, with no tools or drilling needed. The screw-fit and adjustable gates take a little longer as they involve mounting to the wall, but they come with the fittings and instructions to do so. The freestanding barriers simply unfold and stand on their support feet, so they're the easiest of the lot.

• How much is delivery and what's the returns policy?

  Delivery is free across the UK mainland, with orders dispatched in 3 to 5 working days and no hidden fees, so the total at checkout is what you pay. If you change your mind or order in error, you're welcome to return the item, though the return postage cost would be down to you in those cases. If anything arrives faulty or damaged, get in touch with the team and they'll put it right.