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Fitting a Cat Flap
Installing a cat flap your home is an excellent option for any pet owner. If your cat is old and requires extra security, or you have kittens that need to be vetted, there are plenty of options out there for you.

Installing a cat flap can be intimidating for people who aren't professionals, but, with the right instructions, it's not hard to accomplish. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and precision.

Select the Right Door or Windows

There are many different types of cat flaps, including some with locks that can be used to stop your pet from going out or inside, and others that have advanced features like microchips for door entry system. It is important to consider how it is easy to teach your cat to use the flap, before you purchase and install one.

It's best to place the cat flap, based on the style of your home, in a window that opens into an area of the garden that is protected. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering or leaving your home. If possible, this will also give them a way back should they get chased by a cat or by humans intent to hurt them.

You can install an egress flap inside the case of a uPVC door or glass window however, it's not as simple as fitting one into a wooden door. This is because uPVC or composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses. This can affect the method of cutting holes, and what you fix to.

To avoid costly errors to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended to consult a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you're installing the flap onto a wooden door you must introduce your cat to it first to make sure it is familiar with its size and shape.

Take a look at your cat's belly measurement

You'll need the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap you choose to install is a good fit. This will help you ensure that the flap is the right height on your window or door and that it's wide enough to allow them to enter and out easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers along their belly. Look for any squishy fat pads which could be visible on their lower back, face or legs. The padding gives your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the acrobatics cats are famous for.

You can also use the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you require. If your cat is at or over 5kg, for example that's a 14x12cm cat flap opening is advised.

Take a measurement of your door or window

This kind of cat flap, as the name suggests is designed to be installed into the door. It allows your pet to move in and out at their convenience. The flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and are located in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that opens by gently pushing on either side. These flaps can be locked that offer added security, so your cat cannot simply traverse the door from outside.

A window is another popular location for a cat's flap, and they're easy enough to put in, but they often need to be located high enough as it's difficult for dogs and cats to reach them otherwise. If the window isn't sufficient to accommodate a cat's flap, you can make use of ramps, steps, or specially designed stairs to aid the animal in getting to it.

A cat flap can also be fitted into a brick wall but it is not recommended unless you're familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the structure of the wall. It is essential to ensure that there aren't any cables or pipes within the wall before you begin. You should always consult a professional if you need to cut a hole in the wall for cables and pipes. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask will ensure that you don't breathe in the sawdust created when cutting through 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. Certain cat flaps come with security features like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also stop your pet from letting friends or other animals into the home. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to keep out moisture and draughts.

There are different sizes available depending 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 available as well as the type of door or window you intend to install it on.

The last thing to do is think about the opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is a good alternative and is usually the cheapest. It won't prevent other cats and pets from entering, and you could also be letting in drafts.

After cat flap double glazing 've chosen the appropriate cat flap and measured the door or window, it's time to fit it. Make a mark on the belly of the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line isn't too low and is in line with the door. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, using a Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. Once you're happy with the results sand down the edges and then drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.

Make the Tools

It's important to have the right tools when undertaking any DIY project. The most important things you'll require are the cat flap itself along with a tape measure, an excellent pencil and a spirit level drill, file and a jigsaw (depending on your windows or doors).

Consult the manufacturer before making any changes to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to be broken. In this case, it's likely that you'll need to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass.

You'll need to use a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the instructions given by the manufacturer. Use a template to mark out the size hole you require.

After you've cut the hole, you'll have to sand the edges of the opening. This will prevent the possibility of water damage and rust. You should also cover the holes in your window or door and the side of the flap to keep out wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry, you can install your new cat-flap!

Install the Flap


If you want your cat to come and go as it pleases, fitting a flap can help. Most people can put in the flap themselves. However should you wish to put it in the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you may require an expert.

Take a look at the instructions included with your cat flap. You will find an illustration of the template. This will give you an idea of where the holes are to be made for the flap to be placed in the door. Note the areas you'll need to drill into using pencil.

After you have mapped out the area in your door then use a jigsaw cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a relatively simple job, but you'll need to be comfortable with the saw. Many companies will complete this work for you at a reasonable cost if you are hesitant to tackle it yourself.

Then, you can screw the inside part to the hole in your door. It is possible to seal the flap prior to you do this in order to keep it waterproof and weatherproof. The outer section of your cat flap may be placed on top of the bolts, and then tacked together. It is recommended that you test the cat flap with your cat to make sure that it functions properly and that they are able to move easily through it.

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