Notes

Fitting a Cat Flap
Installing a cat flap in your home is a fantastic option for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and requires extra security, or you have new kittens who require a vet check there are a lot of options there to choose from.

Installing a cat flap could be daunting for non-professionals however, with the proper instructions, it's easy to complete. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the key to success.

Choose the Right Door or Windows

There are a variety of cat flaps that are available including some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet going out or entering) and others with high-tech features like microchip door entry systems. It's important to think about how easy it will be to train your cat to use the flap, before you purchase and install one.

Depending on the style of your house It is recommended to put the cat flap in an opening or window that opens to an area of protection in the garden so that your cat is secure when leaving and entering the home. If possible, this will also give them a route back in should they get chased by another cat or by humans intent on harming them.

It is possible to install an egress flap inside a uPVC door or a glass window however it's not as easy as fitting one into wooden doors. It's because uPVC or composite doors come in different thicknesses. This could affect 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 that you consult a glazier who specialises in such work to avoid any costly mistakes. If you're fitting the flap in the door made of wood, start by the cat with it prior to fitting 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 install the right cat flap that's a good fit for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's height. This will ensure that the flap is at the correct height on your window or door and that it's large enough to allow them to enter and out easily.

To do this, lay your pet on their back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Check for any fat pads that are squishy that could be visible on their lower back, face and limbs. 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 consider your pet's weight as a way to gauge how big an opening you require. If your cat weighs up to 5kg, for instance the suggested flap opening size is 14x12cm.

Take a measurement of your door or window

This type of cat flap, as its name suggests is designed to be installed into a door. It lets your pet move in and out at their convenience. These flaps are made of plastic or aluminum and are located in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that can be opened by gently pressing on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps, which provide additional security to ensure that your cat isn't able to enter the door from the outside.

A window is another common place to put a cat flap and these are easy enough to put in, but they often need to be placed high up as it's difficult for cats and dogs to reach them otherwise. If the window isn't sufficient in height to be used as the flap for cats, you can make use of ramps, steps, or stairs that are specially designed to aid the animal in getting to it.

cat flap cover for winter is possible to insert a cat flap into a brickwall, but it is not recommended for people who aren't experienced in the masonry industry. This could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it is important to ensure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. If there are, then a hole needs to be created for them and this is something you should always seek professional advice on. Wearing protective glasses or a dust mask can ensure that you don't breathe in the dust that is generated when you cut into your walls.

Select the Right Cat Flap

There are many different cat flaps on the market and all of them offer different features. Certain cat flaps come with security features, such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition which prevent unauthorised entry. They also stop your pet from letting friends or another animal into the home. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to block water and drafts.


There is also a choice of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, while others are square or circular. Selecting the best cat flap is determined by the space available and the kind of window or door you are fitting it to.

Last but not least, think about the opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. A simple aluminium or plastic swing-out door is a good alternative and is usually the least expensive. However, it will not keep other animals or cats 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. Make a mark on the belly of the door using a ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line isn't too low and is straight on the door. Create a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, use a jigsaw to cut out the outline of the door. Once you're happy with the result, sand the edges and then drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.

Prepare the Tools

It is essential to have the right tools when doing any DIY project. You'll need a cat flap along with an eraser and tape measure along with a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the kind of window or door.

If you're installing a composite door, you should check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes, because this could affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this case it's likely that you'll have to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.

For wooden or uPVC doors, you'll need to cut out the shape of your cat flap using the Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. If possible, you can use an example to mark out the size of the hole you will need to cut.

After you've made the hole, you must sand down the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop the possibility of water damage and rust. It is also recommended to cover the holes in your door or window and the back of the cat flap to block wind and rain. After the sealant has dried, you can install your new cat-flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to be able to go and come at will, installing flaps can be helpful. It's a simple procedure that most people can complete by themselves, though you will likely require the help of a professional if you are installing the flap on the form of a glass door or another type of uPVC door.

Start by looking at the instructions included with your cat flap to find the template. This will give an idea of the location where the holes are to be made for the flap on the door. Mark the areas you will need to drill into with pencil.

After you have mapped out the area in your door, use a jigsaw to cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple job however you'll need be comfortable with a Jigsaw. If you are worried about doing it yourself, there are plenty of businesses that can handle this for you at a very low cost.

Then, you can screw the inside part to the hole in your door. It might be necessary to seal the flap before you do this to keep it weatherproof and watertight. The outer section of your cat flap can be placed on the bolts' tops and then tacked together. 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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