Cat Proof Blinds: We Find the Best Options for Curious Kitties

If you think it’s impossible to find cat-proof blinds that still look great, we’ve got you–and your windows–covered. Curious kitties can cause serious damage to blinds, such as scratching, bending, damaging, and even breaking them. Plus, catproof blinds often sacrifice aesthetic appeal for durability.

In this article, we’ll show you that those concerns are real but can be overcome. Durable, functional blinds that can withstand a cat’s curiosity while still looking great in your home exist.

What Are Cat Proof Blinds?

While many cat-proof window coverings are available, safety is the most important factor when choosing yours. Consider design features like cordless or hidden cords to eliminate choking hazards.

Blinds cats can’t destroy include those made with durable materials like aluminum, faux wood, and high-quality fabric that resists scratching and bending. Materials that are reinforced or sturdily constructed can withstand climbing or pawing.

Finally, don’t forget maintenance. Fur and dust can accumulate on blinds, so you want cat-proof blinds that are easy to clean.

Tips for Choosing Cat Proof Blinds

What blinds can cats not destroy? It depends on your cat! Consider whether you have an active, energetic climber or a cat who prefers to lounge in a sunspot. If you have multiple cats, you need to factor in the range of personalities in your home.

It’s worth repeating: Choose blinds with no exposed cords or parts that could pose a safety hazard.

Look for scratch-resistant and easy-to-clean materials, and choose cat proof window coverings that match your home’s decor.

Top Cat Proof Blinds

1. Graywind Motorized Shades

Motorized roller shades are among the safest options for window shades for rooms where cats play because there are no cords. The remote controls the motor, making raising and lowering the shades simple. Fully darkened options are available for bedrooms while light-diffusing shades suit living spaces.

Highlights

• Utilize materials with low chemical emissions
• Motorized shades don’t use dangerous cords
• Choose between blackout or light-filtering options

Things to Consider

• The cordless design is safe for kids as well as cats
• A higher price point
• Utilizes a remote to open and close the shades

2. Custom Blinds and Window Shades

At most home repair stores like Lowe’s and Home Depot, you can create custom blinds or window coverings to meet your specifications. This is an excellent option if you have uniquely shaped windows or have a design aesthetic in mind.

Highlights

• Choose durable materials like aluminum or faux wood
• Ensure your cat’s safety by selecting cordless or hidden-cord options
• Cut to fit your exact window
• Customize aesthetics to fit your home’s decor

Things to Consider

• Can select materials to fit any budget
• Designing yourself means you won’t have guidance from a professional
• You will have to DIY the install or hire a handyperson to hang your custom cat-proof blinds

3. Plantation Shutters

Made from durable hardwood or a wood composite, these shutters look beautiful in any home. Plus, without cords or fabric, they’re cat-proof window coverings that are also safe.

Highlights

• Custom-made to fit the window’s exact dimensions
• Fit even curved or architectural windows
• Safe and durable
• Allow in lots of light for kitties who like to watch out the window

Things to Consider

• One of the more expensive options
• One of the easiest styles to keep clean
• Extremely resistant to scratching, but a curious kitten might be able to climb them

4. Sunbrella Performance Fabric

Sunbrella synthetic fabric is a great shade choice, designed to be fade-resistant and durable. Sunbrella’s fabric is considered a pet-friendly performance fabric that is simple to clean and maintain.

Highlights

• Available in more than 60 fade-resistant colors and patterns
• Fabric can be used in numerous types of window coverings, including Roller Shades, Solar Shades, Roman Shade, and more
• Extremely durable fabric holds up to cat nails

Things to Consider

• Request a free fabric swatch to see how the colors look in your room
• Though the fabric can be used in many designs, choose a cat-safe, cordless option.
• Prices can vary depending on customization needs

5. Faux Wood Blinds

With the elevated look of real wood, these durable faux wood blinds are made from PVC. They don’t have a cord, making them a safe choice for cats, and they can be fully closed to provide privacy.

Highlights

• Durable material
• Cat-safe design
• An affordable option that provides total privacy
• Easy to clean

Things to Consider

• These utilize a wand to tilt the blinds
• The material works in high-humidity areas like laundry rooms and bathrooms
• Available at prices that can fit most budgets and include a warranty

6. Mini Blinds

Mini blinds can be used in any room of your home. Durable, one-inch vinyl or aluminum slats are a piece of cake to clean and maintain, and they're cordless, so they're safe for cats.

Highlights

• It won’t warp or fade from heat or moisture
• Vinyl or aluminum slats resist cat scratches
• Simple to keep clean

Things to Consider

• You can choose between room darkening and blackout options
• For cats who love sunshine, these are easy to raise and lower or tilt to open
• There are fewer color options than some of the other window covering choices

7. Double Roller Shades

Many cats love to look out the window or doze in the sun on a nice day. A double roller shade allows you to choose how high or low to roll the shade during the day and provides a second layer to completely blackout the room for sleeping.

Highlights

• A 2-in-1 window treatment
• Choose room darkening or privacy Made in the USA with premium materials Cordless design ensures your cat’s safety

Things to Consider

• It can be upgraded to motorized
• Few color options
• Quick production time means you’ll get your cat-proof shades quickly

8. Kid-Safe Window Blinds and Shades

Hot tip: Shopping for kid-safe window blinds and shades means you’ll get the safest options on the market. Plus, most are noise-dampening and fully customizable, so cat parents will find exactly what they need. This tip works best when shopping online when many manufacturers don’t have a specific “cat-safe” selection in their search bars, but all have a kid-safe choice.

Highlights

• Discover the array of designs and styles deemed safest for children
• Cordless designs
• Many colors and styles that can be configured to fit your home’s aesthetic

Things to Consider

• Not all kid-friendly fabric shades are cat-safe, so stick with durable synthetic fibers or wood or aluminum blinds
• Choose mounting styles that fit the inside or the outside of your window’s frame

Cat Proof Blinds: How We Choose the Products to Include

We recommend the best cat-proof blinds based on materials and designs known for cat safety and durability. We consult a mix of expert opinions, customer reviews, brand reputation, and manufacturer details.

Because there are so many different budgets and preferences, home aesthetics, and window types, we choose products that include variety.

Additional Tips for Choosing Cat-Proof Blinds 

Misconceptions abound when it comes to choosing blinds that are cat-proof. Finding durable, cat-friendly materials that look great in your home is possible. Safety features like cordless designs and reinforced construction are available at various price points for various styles and window types. 

The right blinds can make life with cats easier and more enjoyable while maintaining a beautiful home. Take your time shopping. Compare reviews, explore customization options, and prioritize functionality–including safety–alongside style.

Feature image via Caleb Woods on Unsplash