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Fitting a Cat Flap
Installing a cat flap your home is a great option for any pet owner. There are numerous options for you, no matter if your cat is getting older and needs extra security or if you have kittens who need to be vetted.

It can be intimidating for those who aren't professionals to put in a cat flap, but with proper instructions, it's simple. Planning, preparation and precision are the keys.

Select the Right Door or Windows

There are a variety of cat flaps to choose from that come with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from going out or entering) and others with advanced features like microchip door entry systems. However, it's important to consider how easy your cat is to train to use the flap prior to making a purchase and fit one.

Depending on the style of your home, it's usually best to place the cat flap in an opening or window that opens onto an area that is protected from the garden so your cat is secure when leaving and entering the home. If you can it will also provide them a way back should they get pursued by a different cat or by a human intent to hurt them.

It's possible to install a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't the same as fitting one on a wooden door. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in a variety of thicknesses. This can impact the way holes are cut, and the type of door you can fix to.

If you're installing the flap inside the glass of a door it is recommended that you consult a glazier who specialises in this kind of work to avoid costly mistakes. If you are fitting the flap into an existing wooden door, you should introduce your cat to it first so that it can become familiar with its size and shape.

Take a look at your cat's belly measurement

In order to install an appropriate cat flap that is the right size for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat's height. This will ensure that the flap is the right height on your door or window and that it's wide enough to allow them to enter and out easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Look for any fat pads that are squishy - these may be visible around their lower back, face, and legs. The extra padding offers your pet safety and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics that felines are famous for.

You can also make use of your pet's weight to gauge how big an opening you need. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg in weight for instance that's a 14x12cm flap for your cat is advised.

Make sure linked here measure your door or window

The name implies this kind of cat flap is designed to be fixed into a door and provides an opportunity for your pet to enter or leave as it pleases. These flaps are constructed of plastic or aluminum and are located in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that opens by gently pushing on either side. There are locks on some of these flaps that provide extra security, so your cat won't be able to simply enter the door from the outside.

Cat flaps are also frequently used on windows. They are easy to be installed, but they have to be set at a height where cats and dogs have a difficult time to access them. If the window isn't sufficient to accommodate a cat's flap, then you can use ramps, steps, or stairs that are specially designed to assist the animal in reaching it.

It is possible to put a cat flap into the brick wall, however it is not recommended for those who aren't experienced in brickwork. This could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it's important to make sure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. Always consult an expert if you have to create a hole for cables and pipes. It's also advisable to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust mask to avoid inhaling any sawdust generated by cutting holes in the walls of your house.

Choose the right cat flap

There are many different cat flaps on the market and each one comes with various features. Some cat flaps have security features such as magnetic locks or microchips which prevent unauthorised entry. They also prevent your pet from letting friends or another animal into the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to keep out water and drafts.

There are also different sizes to choose from based on the breed and size of your pet. Certain cat flaps are available in rectangular shapes, while others are circular or square. The type of cat flap you select will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the kind of door or window you're fixing it to.

Last but not least, consider the type of opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. The most affordable option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. But, it will not prevent other cats or pets from entering your home and you could be letting draughts in too.

It's time to put in your cat flap. Mark the belly height of the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is sitting straight on the door and not too low. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, using the saw, cut out the outline of the door. When you are satisfied with the result finish sanding the edges and drill through the pencil lines to create holes for screws.

Make the Tools

As with all DIY tasks, it's recommended to have the appropriate tools to complete the task. You'll need the cat flap as well as an eraser and tape measure as well as a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the kind of door or window.

Contact the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a door made of composite. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to be broken. In this scenario it's likely you will need to replace the glass with a brand new piece of toughened glass.


You'll require a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. If possible, you can use an example to mark out the dimensions of the hole you need to cut.

After you've cut the required hole, you'll need to smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This should prevent any water damage or rust from happening in the future. In the end, you must apply any necessary sealant to the back of the cat flap, and to the holes in the door or window to block rain and wind. Once the sealant has dried it is time to install your cat flap!

Install the Flap

Fitting a flap will allow your cat to move around whenever it wants. This is a straightforward process that most people can accomplish on their own, but you may require the help of an expert for installing the flap in a glass door or other type of uPVC door.

Take a look at the instructions that came with the cat flap. There is a drawing of the template. This will give you an idea of where the holes for the flap need to be made in the door. Then, mark the places in which you will have to drill using a pencil.

After you've marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw and cut out the shape for the cat flap . It is a relatively simple task, but you'll have to be comfortable using the jigsaw. Many companies will do this task for you at a reasonable price if you are hesitant to do it yourself.

The next step is to attach the inside of the cat flap to the door's hole. You may have to apply sealant before making this move to ensure it is weather and water resistant. You can then put the outer section of the cat flap on the top of the fixing bolts and tighten them all. You should test the cat flap on your cat to ensure that it's working properly and that it allows them to exit and enter easily.

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