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Fitting a Cat Flap
Installing a cat flap inside your home can be a big step for any pet owner. If your cat is old and needs extra security or you have new kittens that require a thorough screening, there are plenty of options there for you.

It can be difficult for non-professionals to install an animal flap, but with the proper instructions, it's simple. Preparation, planning and precision are the key to success.

Select the Right Door or Window

There are many different types of cat flaps, including some with locks that can be used to prevent your pet from getting out or in and others with advanced features like microchips for door entry systems. It's important to think about how it is easy to teach your cat 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 a window that opens into a garden that is sheltered. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering or leaving your home. This will also allow them to go back inside in the event of being chased by other animals or humans who want to hurt them.

It is possible to install the cat flap on the form of a uPVC door or glass window however, it's not as simple as fitting one into the door made of wood. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in various thicknesses. This can impact the method of cutting holes, and what you fix into.


If you're installing the flap inside the glass of a door it is recommended to find a glazier who is experienced in this kind of work to avoid costly errors. If you're installing the flap in a wooden door, start by introduction of your cat to it prior to fitting it, so that they become familiar with its shape and size and explore it from all angles.

Measure Your Cat's Belly

You'll need the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap you choose to install is a good fit. This will allow you to ensure that the cat flap is installed at the right height for the window or door, and also that it's large enough to allow him to enter and out easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back, face or legs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline circus skills.

You can also consider your pet's weight as a way to gauge how big an opening you'll need. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg, for example the suggested flap size is 14x12cm.

Measure Your Door or Window

Like the name suggests, this type of cat flap is designed to be fixed into the door, and offers the pet with a way to go in or out as it pleases. These flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and sit in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that is opened by gently pressing on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps that provide extra security, so your cat can't simply traverse through the door from outside.

A window is another common location for a cat's flap and these are easy enough to fit, although they are usually placed high up as it's difficult for cats and dogs to reach them otherwise. If the window is too high to use a cat flap then steps, ramps or purpose constructed stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it.

It is possible to install an egress into a brickwall, but it is not recommended for those who aren't experienced in masonry. This could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it's important to ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. If there are, there must be a hole created for them and this is something you should always seek professional advice on. It is also recommended to wear safety goggles and a dust protection mask to avoid breathing in any sawdust that is created by cutting holes in the walls of your home.

Select the Right Cat Flap

There are a variety of cat flaps available and all of them offer various features. Certain cat flaps come with security features such as microchip recognition or magnetic locks which prevent unauthorised entry. They also prevent your pet from letting guests or other animals into the home. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to keep out moisture and draughts.

There are different sizes to choose from based on the breed and size of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are square or circular. The type of cat flap you pick will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the kind of door or window you're fitting it to.

The last thing to do is consider the type of opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. The cheapest option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. However, it won't stop other pets or cats from entering and you may be letting draughts in as well.

Once you have selected the correct cat flap and measured the windows or doors, it's time to fit it. Start by marking the belly's height on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is sitting straight against the door and not too low. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, using the saw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you are satisfied with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.

Make sure you have the tools ready

Like all DIY jobs, it's always recommended to have the proper tools for the job. You'll need the cat flap as well as tape measure and pencil as well as a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the kind of door or window.

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

For wooden or uPVC doors, you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap using the Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to mark out the size hole you need.

After you've made the hole, you'll need to sand down the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop any rust or water damage from happening in the near future. Also, you should apply any sealant you require to the rear of the cat flap as well as to the holes in the door or window to block rain and wind. After the sealant has dried, you can install your new cat-flap!

Install the Flap

The installation of a flap will allow your cat to come and go whenever it pleases. This is a straightforward process that most people can do themselves, although you may require the assistance of an expert if you're installing the flap on an unglazed door or any other kind of uPVC door.

Check out the directions that came with the cat flap. There is a template drawing. This will give you an idea of where holes for the flap will need to be made in the door. Mark the areas you will need to drill into with a pencil.

After you have marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw to cut the design for the cat flap. It's a relatively easy task, but you'll need to be comfortable using a Jigsaw. If you are concerned about doing it yourself, there are many companies that can complete this for you at a low cost.

Then, you can screw the inside part of the door to the hole in your door. It may be necessary to seal the flap before you do this in order to keep it waterproof and weatherproof. The outside of your cat flap could be placed on top of the bolts, and then securing them. It is recommended that you test the flap using your cat to make sure that it works correctly and that they can enter and leave easily through it.

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