Fitting a Cat Flap Installing a cat flap in to your home can be a major step for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and requires extra security, or you have a new kitten who require a vet check there are a lot of options there for you.

It can be difficult for those who aren't professionals to put in a cat flap, but with the proper instructions, it's simple. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the keys.

Choose the Right Door or Window

There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, including some with locks that can be used to keep your pet from getting out or in, while others have modern features such as microchips or a door entry system. However, it's important to consider the ease of your cat to teach to use the flap before you purchase and install one.

It is best to place the cat flap, depending on the design of your home, in the form of a window that opens to a garden that is sheltered. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering and leaving your home. If possible, this will also give them a way back should they get chased by another cat or by a human intent to harm them.

You can put the cat flap on the form of a uPVC door or a glass window however it's not as simple as fitting one into the door made of wood. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors come in different thicknesses, and this can impact the way holes are cut as well as the material you're fixing it into.

If you're installing the flap in a glass door it is recommended to seek out a glazier that is skilled in this kind of work to avoid any costly errors. If you are fitting the flap to the door made of wood you must introduce your cat to it at first to make sure it is familiar with its size and shape.

Take a look at your cat's belly measurement


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

Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers along their belly. Feel for any squishy fat pads - these could be visible on their lower back, face and legs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline circus skills.

You can also make use of your pet's weight to gauge how big an opening you'll need. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg in weight for instance an opening of 14 x 12cm flap for the cat is advised.

Make sure you measure your window or door

As the name suggests this kind of cat flap is made to be attached to a door and provides a way for your pet to leave or enter at any time it wishes. The flaps are made of plastic or aluminum and are located in the middle of the door. They have a two-way swinging opening that is opened by lightly pushing on either side. These flaps can be locked that provide additional security so your cat cannot simply enter the door from outside.

A window is another popular location for a cat flap, and they're easy enough to fit, although they often need to be placed high up as it's difficult for cats and dogs to access them. If the window is not high enough to use a cat's flap, you can use steps, ramps or specially designed stairs to help the animal reach it.

It is possible to install the cat flap onto the brick wall, however it is not recommended for those who aren't experienced in masonry. This could weaken the structure of the wall. It is essential to ensure that there are no cables and pipes in the wall prior to you start. You should always consult a professional if you need to create a hole for pipes or cables. It is also recommended to wear safety goggles and a dust-proof mask to prevent inhaling any sawdust generated by cutting into the walls of your home.

Choose the right cat flap

There are numerous cat flaps on the market and all of them offer various features. Repair My Windows And Doors are equipped with security features such as microchip recognition or magnetic locks that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also stop your pet from allowing friends or animals to enter the house. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to keep out draughts and moisture.

There's also a variety of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular while others are circular or square. The kind of cat flap you pick will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the type of window or door you're installing it to.

The last thing to do is think about the opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. 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 the room, and you could be letting in drafts.

Once you've selected the correct cat flap and measured your window or door and window, it's now time to put it in place it. Start by marking the belly height on the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is straight 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 the outline of the door. Once you are happy with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil marks to create holes for screws.

Prepare the Tools

Like all DIY jobs, it's always best to have the proper tools to complete the task. The main things you'll need are the cat flap, a tape measure and a decent pencil, a spirit level, drill, file, and a jigsaw (depending on the windows or doors).

If you're installing in a composite door, it is recommended to consult with the manufacturer prior to making any changes because this could invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this case you'll likely need to fit an entirely new pane of toughened glass instead.

You'll require a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the instructions given by the manufacturer. If you can, use an example to identify the dimensions of the hole you'll have to cut.

After you've made the hole, you'll need to sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop any future water damage or rust. It is also recommended to cover the holes in your window or door and the back of the flap to block rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry, you're ready to install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to be able to move around at will, installing flaps can be helpful. This is a straightforward process that most people can do on their own, but you may require the assistance of an expert if you're installing the flap in the form of a glass door or another kind of uPVC door.

Take a look at the instructions that came with the cat flap. You will find an illustration of the template. This will give you an idea of where the holes for the flap will need to be drilled into the door. Mark the areas you will have to drill with the pencil.

After you've marked the door's opening, use a jigsaw to cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a relatively easy job, but you'll require a good understanding of a saw. If you are concerned about doing it yourself, there are plenty of companies that can complete this for you at a minimal cost.

Next, you will need to attach the inside of the flap onto the door's hole. It is possible to seal the flap prior to you do this, in order to keep it weatherproof and watertight. The outer section of your cat flap can be placed on the bolts on top, and then tightened together. You should test the cat flap on your cat to ensure that it's working properly and allows the cat to go in and out easily.