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Fitting a Cat Flap
Getting a cat flap fitted into your home could be a big step for any pet owner. There are many options available to you, regardless of whether your cat is old and requires additional security or you have kittens who need to be vetted.

Installing a cat flap can be daunting for non-professionals but with the right instructions, it's not hard to accomplish. The most important thing is planning, preparation and precision.


Select the Right Door or Windows

There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, some with locks that can be used to prevent your pet from going out or in, while others have modern features such as microchips or a door entry system. But, it's important to consider how easy it is for your cat to teach to use the flap before you buy and install one.

It is best to place the cat flap, depending on the design of your home, in an opening that leads into an area of the garden that is protected. This will allow your cat to feel safe when entering or leaving your home. If possible it will also provide them a way back case they are chased by another cat or by humans intent on harming them.

It is possible to install the cat flap on a uPVC door or glass window, but it's not as straightforward as fitting one into wooden doors. This is because uPVC and composite doors come in different thicknesses, and this can impact how holes are cut and the material you're fixing it into.

To avoid costly errors to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended to consult a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a door with a glass front. If you're fitting the flap to the door made of wood, start by introducing your cat to it before you fit it so that they can become familiar with its shape and size and explore it from all angles.

Measure Your Cat's Belly

In order to put in the right cat flap that's suitable for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat. This will enable you to ensure that your cat flap is installed at the correct height on the door or window, and that it is large enough for him to get in and out easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers over their belly. Look for a fat pad that is squishy around the lower back or face, or around the limbs. The padding provides your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics felines are famous for.

Alternately, you could consider your pet's weight as a way to determine the size of the opening you require. If your cat weighs up to 5kg, for instance, the suggested cat flap size is 14 x 12cm.

Take a measurement of your window or door

This kind of cat flap, as its name suggests is designed to be affixed to a door. It allows your pet to move in and out at their convenience. They are usually made from plastic or aluminium and simply sit in the centre of the door with a two-way swinging door that is opened by pushing lightly on either side. The flaps are available with locking options that provide additional security which means that your cat can't walk through the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also often used on windows. They are able to be easily installed, but they have to be installed at a high level as cats and dogs have a difficult time to reach them. If the window isn't sufficient to accommodate a cat's flap, then you can use steps, ramps or specially designed stairs to assist the animal in reaching it.

A cat flap can be installed to a brick wall, but it is not recommended unless you are skilled in masonry work as it could weaken the structure of the wall. It's important to check that there are no cables and pipes in the wall prior to you begin. Always consult an expert if you have to make a hole for cables and pipes. It's also advisable to wear protective goggles and a dust mask to avoid inhaling any sawdust that is created by cutting through the walls of your home.

Choose the right cat flap

There are a variety of cat flaps that are available on the market, and they come with different features. Some come with security options such as magnetic locks or microchips that block entry by unauthorized persons and stop your pet allowing pets or friends into the house. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals that keep out draughts and moisture.

There is also a choice of sizes, based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular, while others are square or circular. Choosing the right type of cat flap will be determined by the space you have available and the kind of door or window you intend to install it on.

Lastly, think about the opening mechanism that your cat flap will come with. The cheapest option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. However, it will not prevent other cats or pets from entering your home and you could let draughts through as well.

Once you've selected the appropriate cat flap and measured your window or door then it's time to install it. Start by marking the height of the belly on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is sitting straight against the door and not too low. Utilize your spirit level to draw a template for the flap for cats. Then, you can use your Jigsaw to cut the door's outline. Once you're happy with the result, sand the edges and drill through the pencil marks to create holes for the screws.

Make the Tools

Like any DIY jobs, it's always recommended to have the proper tools to complete the task. You'll need a cat flap, a pencil and tape measure, a spirit-level, a drill and a jigsaw depending on the type of window or door.

If you're installing in a composite door, it is recommended to consult with the manufacturer prior to making any changes because this could cause the warranty to be invalidated or break the weathertight seal. In cat flap bifold doors 'll likely have to install an additional pane of toughened glass instead.

You'll need the jigsaw to cut your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines given by the manufacturer. If possible, use an example to identify the dimensions of the hole you will need to cut.

After you've cut the hole, you'll have to sand the edges of the opening. This will prevent any water damage or rust from happening in the future. Finally, you should apply any sealant that is needed to the rear of the cat flap and to the holes in the door or window to keep out rain and wind. When the sealant has dried then you're now ready to put in your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

Installing a flap allows your cat to come and go whenever it wants. The majority of people can install the flap themselves. However when you plan to install it on glass or uPVC type door, you may require a professional.

Take a look at the instructions that came with your cat flap. There is an illustration of the template. This will give you an idea of where holes for the flap will need to be drilled into the door. Mark the areas you'll have to drill using the pencil.

Once you have marked out the door's area, use a jigsaw to cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task, but you will have to be comfortable using a jigsaw. Many companies will do this work for you at a reasonable price if you are hesitant to take on the task yourself.

Then, screw the inner part to the hole of your door. You may need to apply sealant before making this move to ensure it is weather and water resistant. You can then place the outer portion of the cat flap on top of the fixing bolts, and tighten them all. You should test the flap on your cat to make sure that it is working correctly and that it allows them to enter and exit easily.

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