Fitting a Cat Flap Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is an excellent step for any pet owner. There are many options available to you, regardless of whether your cat is getting older and needs extra security or if you have kittens who need to be vetted.

It can be difficult for those who aren't professionals to put in a cat flap, but with the right instructions it's easy. Preparation, planning and precision are the key to success.

Choose the Right Door or Window

There are a variety of cat flaps, some of which have 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 systems. It is important to consider how easy it will be to train your cat to use the flap, before you purchase and install one.

It's best to place the cat flap, based on the design of your home, in the form of a window that opens to an area of the garden that is protected. This will allow your cat to feel safe when entering or leaving your home. This will also enable them to go back inside if they are pursued by a pet or human beings who wish to hurt them.

It's possible to put a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't the same as fitting one in a wood 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 material you put to.

If doors with cat flap installing the flap in glass doors it is recommended to seek out a glazier that is skilled in this kind of work to avoid costly mistakes. If you're installing the flap on a wooden door, start by introducing your cat to it prior to fitting it so that they can become familiar with its shape and size and explore it from all angles.

Find out the size of your cat's belly

You'll need the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap you install is a perfect fit. This will enable you to ensure that the cat flap is at the right height on the door or window, and that it's big enough for him to get in and leave easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers over their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back and face, as well as the limbs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline circus skills.

You can also use the weight of your pet to determine how large opening you require. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg in weight, for example that's a 14x12cm flap for your cat is advised.

Measure your window or door

The name implies this kind of cat flap is made to be attached to the door, and offers an opportunity for your pet to leave or enter whenever it wants. They are usually made of aluminum or plastic and sit in the centre of the door. They come with an open door that is opened by pushing lightly on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps that provide additional security to ensure that your cat isn't able to enter the door from the outside.

Cat flaps are also often used on windows. They can be easily installed, however they have to be installed at a high level as cats and dogs have a difficult time to reach them. If the window is too high to be used as a cat flap then ramps, steps, or specially constructed stairs can be used to help the animal access it.

It is possible to put a cat flap into brick walls, however it is not recommended for people who aren't familiar with masonry. This could weaken the structure of the wall. It's important to check that there aren't any cables or pipes inside the wall before you begin. It is recommended to consult an expert when you need to cut a hole in the wall for pipes and cables. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask will allow you to avoid breathing in the dust that is generated when cutting through your walls.

Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.

There are a variety of cat flaps available and all of them offer various features. Some flaps are equipped with security features like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also keep your pet from letting friends or other animals into the home. Some have weatherproof seals and insulation to keep out moisture and draughts.

There's also a variety of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, while others are circular or square. The type of cat flap you choose will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the type of window or door you're fitting it to.

Last but not least, consider the type of opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. It won't stop other animals and cats from entering however, and you could let in draughts.


After you've chosen the appropriate cat flap and measured your door or window and window, it's now time to put it in place it. Determine the belly height of the door using a ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is straight against the door and not too low. Use your spirit level to draw a template for the flap for cats. Then, using the jigsaw, cut out the outline of the door. When you're happy with the result, sand the edges and then drill through the pencil marks to create holes for the screws.

Make sure you have the tools ready

It is essential to have the right tools when performing any DIY project. The main things you'll need are the cat flap as well as a tape measure, a decent pencil as well as a spirit level, drill, file, and the jigsaw (depending on your windows or doors).

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 become damaged. In this scenario you'll likely have to install an entirely new pane of toughened glass instead.

You'll need the jigsaw to cut your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. Use a template to mark the size hole you'll require.

After you've cut the hole, you'll have to sand off the edges of the opening. This will stop any water damage or rust from occurring in the future. You should also cover the holes in your door or window and the back of the cat flap to keep out wind and rain. When the sealant has dried then you're now ready to put in your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

Fitting a flap will allow your cat to go and come whenever it pleases. Most people can put in the flap by themselves. However should you wish to install it in a glass or uPVC type door, you might need a professional.

Begin by reading the instructions included with your cat flap to find the template. This will give you an idea of where the holes for the flap will need to be made in the door. Mark the areas you will need to drill into with pencil.

After you have marked the area on your door, you can use the jigsaw and cut out the the cat flap. This is a fairly simple job, but you'll require a good understanding of a saw. If you are concerned about doing it yourself, there are many companies that can do this for you at a very low cost.

Next, you will need to screw the inner part of the cat flap to the door's hole. It may be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this in order to keep it waterproof and weatherproof. Then, you can put the outer part of the flap on the top of the fixing bolts and tighten the bolts all together. It is recommended to test the flap using your cat to ensure that it works correctly and that they can enter and leave easily through it.