Fitting a Cat Flap

Getting a cat flap fitted in to your home can be a big step for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and requires extra security, or you have new kittens that need to be vetted there are a lot of options there for you.

Installing a cat flap can be intimidating for people who aren't professionals, however, with the proper instructions, it's not hard to do. The most important thing is planning, preparation and accuracy.

Choose the Right Door or Windows

There are a wide variety of cat flaps available that come with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from going out or entering) and others with advanced features such as microchip door entry systems. It is important to think about the ease of your cat to teach to use the flap before you purchase and fit one.

It is best to place the cat flap, based on the style of your house, in the form of a window that opens to an area of the garden that is protected. This will help your cat feel safe when entering or leaving your home. If possible this will also allow them a route back in should they get pursued by a different cat or by a human intent to hurt them.

It is possible to install the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it's not the same as fitting one in a wood door. her explanation is because uPVC and composite doors are available in different thicknesses, which affect the way holes are cut as well as the material you're fixing it into.

To avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended to consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If you're installing the flap to a wooden door, start by introducing your cat to it before you fit it to allow them to get used to its shape and size, and explore it from all angles.

Measure Your Cat's Belly

You'll need your cat's measurements to ensure that the cat flap you install is a good fit. This will help you ensure that the flap is at the right height on your window or door and that it's large enough for them to enter and exit easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers over their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back and face, as well as the legs. The extra padding offers your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics that felines are famous for.

You can also use the weight of your pet to determine the size of opening you require. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg in weight for instance that's a 14x12cm flap for your cat is advised.

Make sure you measure your windows or doors

The name implies the cat flap is made to be attached to the door, and offers the pet with a way to enter or leave whenever it wants. These flaps are constructed of plastic or aluminum and are placed in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that opens by gently pushing on either side. They can be locked which provide extra security so your cat cannot simply walk through the door from outside.


A window is another popular location for a cat flap and these are easy enough to install, though they often need to be located high enough as it's difficult for cats and dogs to access them. If the window is not sufficient in height to be used as a cat's flap, you can use steps, ramps or specially designed stairs to help the animal reach it.

It is possible to put the cat flap onto a brickwall, but it is not recommended for those who are not experienced in masonry. This could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's essential to ensure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. If there are, there must be a hole made for them. This is something you should always seek expert advice on. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask can allow you to avoid breathing in the dust that is generated when cutting into your walls.

Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.

There are a variety of cat flaps on the market and all of them offer various features. Some flaps are equipped with security features, such as microchip recognition or magnetic locks which prevent unauthorised entry. They also keep your pet from allowing friends or other animals into the house. Some have weatherproof seals and insulation to block out moisture and draughts.

There are various sizes available depending on the breed and size of your pet. Certain cat flaps are available in rectangular shapes, while others are square or circular. Choosing the right type of cat flap will be determined by the space you have available and the type of door or window you want to attach it to.

Last but not least, take into consideration the kind of opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is an option and is usually the least expensive. However, it won't stop other pets or cats from entering your home and you could be letting draughts in as well.

After you've chosen the correct cat flap and measured your door or window and window, it's now time to put it in place it. Start by marking the height of the belly on the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure the line is not too low and that it is straight across the door. Utilize your spirit level to draw a sketch of the cat flap. Then, use a saw to cut out the door's outline. Once you are happy with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil markings to make holes for screws.

Prepare the Tools

It is essential to have the right tools when performing any DIY project. The most important things you'll require are the cat flap itself as well as a tape measure, an excellent pencil and a spirit level drill, file and an jigsaw (depending on the window or door type).

Consult the manufacturer before making any changes to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to become broken. In this scenario you'll have to install a new pane of toughened glass instead.

You'll need an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the instructions given by the manufacturer. If possible, you can use an outline to help mark out the size of the hole you'll have to cut.

After you have cut the hole, you'll have to sand the edges of the opening. This will stop any rust or water damage from happening in the near future. In the end, you must apply any sealant you require to the back of the cat flap and to the holes in the door or window to block the elements of wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry, you can install your new cat-flap!

Install the Flap

Fitting a flap will allow your cat to come and go whenever it wants. The majority of people can install the flap themselves. However, if you want to put it in a glass or uPVC type door, you may need a professional.

Start by looking at the instructions provided with your cat flap to find the template. This will provide you with an idea of where holes for the flap will need to be drilled into the door. Then, mark the places where you have to drill using a pencil.

After you've marked the door's opening, use a jigsaw to cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a relatively easy job, but you'll require a good understanding of the Jigsaw. If you are worried about doing this yourself, there are a lot of businesses that can handle this for you at a very low cost.

Then, attach the outer part of the door to the hole in your door. It is possible to seal the flap before you do this, in order to keep it weatherproof and watertight. You can then put the outer portion of the flap on the top of the fixing bolts and then tighten them all together. It is recommended to test the flap with your cat to ensure that it works correctly and that they are able to move easily through it.

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Pub: 05 Oct 2024 08:57 UTC
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