This also now adds a weak point that I could see becoming an issue over time

The weak point is the latch

(two points of zip ties don't work).

The pivot points of the plastic latch are wearing out very quickly and it will no longer retract smoothly, to the point that it can be very difficult to open

n’t know how it would work for a child

n’t have children but never would trust this with a child, especially near stairs

n’t disturb my senior cat when he eats and potties

n’t think I would trust the sturdiness with a pre-toddler or older child though.