Fitting a Cat Flap Installing a cat flap in your home is an excellent step for any pet owner. There are a variety of options to you, regardless of whether your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have kittens who need to be checked.

It can be difficult for people who aren't experts in installing an animal flap, but with proper guidelines, it's easy. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and accuracy.

Select the Right Door or Windows

There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, some with locks that can be used to keep your pet from getting out or in and others with modern features such as microchips or a door entry systems. It is important to consider how easy your cat is to teach to use the flap prior to making a purchase and fit one.

Based on the style of your home, it's generally best to place the cat flap near an opening or window that opens onto a sheltered area of the garden so that your cat is secure when going into and out of the house. If you can this will also allow them a way back case they are chased by another cat or by humans intent to harm them.


It is possible to install the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it's not as easy as putting one into a wood door. This is because uPVC and composite doors come in different thicknesses, which affect how holes are cut and the material you're fixing it to.

If you're installing the flap on the glass of a door it is recommended that you find a glazier who is experienced in this type of work to avoid any costly mistakes. If you're installing the flap to the door made of wood, start by the cat with it before you fit it, so that they be 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 the right size for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat's size. This will help you ensure that the flap is the right height for your door or window, and that it's wide enough to allow them to enter and exit with ease.

To do this, lay your pet on their back and run your fingers gently along their belly. Look for a fat pad that is squishy around the lower back, face or legs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline circus skills.

You can also take into account the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you need. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg in weight, for example an opening of 14 x 12cm cat flap opening is recommended.

Take a measurement of your door or window

This kind of cat flap, as its name suggests, is designed to be affixed to a door. It allows your pet to be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. These flaps are constructed of plastic or aluminum and are located 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 offer extra security, so your cat isn't able to enter the door from the outside.

Cat flaps are also commonly used in windows. They are able to be easily installed, however they have to be placed at a high level as cats and dogs find it difficult to reach them. If the window isn't sufficient to accommodate the flap for cats, you can opt for steps, ramps or stairs that are specially designed to help the animal reach it.

A cat flap can also be fitted to a brick wall, but this is not recommended unless you're skilled in masonry work as it could weaken the structure of the wall. It is essential to ensure that there are no cables and pipes within the wall before you start. If cat flap installer repairmywindowsanddoors are, there must be a hole created for them and this is something you should always seek expert advice on. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask will ensure that you don't breathe in the dust that is generated when cutting into your walls.

Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.

There are many different cat flaps available and each one comes with different features. Some come with security options such as magnetic locks or microchips that block entry by unauthorized persons and prevent your pet from allowing guests or other animals to enter the home. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to keep out water and drafts.

There is also a choice of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular 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 type of window or door you're fitting it to.

Finally, think about the opening mechanism that your cat flap will have. The most affordable option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It won't stop other cats and pets from entering however, and you could let in draughts.

It's time to put in your cat flap. Mark the belly height of the door using a ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is exactly on the door and not too low. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, using a jigsaw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you are satisfied with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for screws.

Make sure you have the tools ready

Like any DIY tasks, it's recommended to have the proper tools to complete the task. The most important things you'll require are the cat flap itself along with a tape measure, a good pencil and a spirit level a file, drill and an jigsaw (depending on the door or window type).

Contact the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to be damaged. In this instance it's likely you'll have to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass.

For wooden or uPVC doors you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap using the jigsaw and follow the instructions given by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to mark out the size hole you'll need.

After you've made the hole, you must sand down the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will prevent any rust or water damage from occurring in the future. You should also cover the holes in your window or door and the back of the cat flap to prevent wind and rain. After the sealant has dried then you're now ready to put in your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

Installing a flap allows your cat to go and come whenever it wishes. This is a simple process that most people can complete on their own, but you will likely require the help of a professional if you are installing the flap on the form of a glass door or another kind of uPVC door.

Start by looking at the instructions included with your cat flap to find the template. This will give you an idea of where holes need to be drilled for the flap to be placed in the door. Mark the areas that you'll must drill using a pencil.

After you've marked the area on your door, you can use the jigsaw to cut the design for the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task, but you'll need to be comfortable with the jigsaw. If you are worried about doing this yourself, there are many companies that can complete this for you at a very low cost.

Next, you will need to attach the interior part of the cat flap to the door's hole. You may have to seal it prior to doing this to ensure that it is weather and water resistant. You can then place the outer portion of the cat flap on the top of the fixing bolts, and tighten the bolts all together. It is recommended to test the cat flap with your cat to ensure that it functions properly and that they can get in and out of it.