Installing a cat flap in to your home can be a big step for any pet owner. There are numerous options to you, regardless of whether your cat is old and needs extra security, or you have kittens that require to be checked.

Installing a cat flap could be a daunting task for novices, but, with the right instructions, it's not difficult to complete. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the most important factors.

Choose the Right Door or Windows

There's a wide selection of cat flaps to choose from, some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet going out or entering) and others with high-tech features such as microchip door entry systems. However, it's important to think about how easy it is for your cat to train to use the flap prior to making a purchase and install one.

Depending on the style of your home, it's usually best to place the cat flap near an opening or window that opens to a sheltered area of the garden so your cat is secure when entering and leaving the home. If cat flap fitters near me can this will also allow them a way back should they get chased by a cat or by humans intent to harm them.

You can install the cat flap on the case of a uPVC door or a glass window however it's not as easy as fitting one into the door made of wood. It's because uPVC or composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses. This could affect the method of cutting holes, and the material you put into.


To avoid costly mistakes to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended to consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a door with a glass front. If you're fitting the flap to the door made of wood, start by introducing your cat to it before you fit it so that they can get used to its size and shape and explore it from all angles.

Measure Your Cat's Belly

To install a cat flap that's a good fit for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's height. This will allow you to ensure that your cat flap is placed at the right height for the door or window, and that it is large enough to allow him to enter and leave easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Check for any squishy fat pads - these could be visible on their lower back, face, and the limbs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline acrobatics.

You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you need. If your cat weighs 5Kg, for example the suggested cat flap opening size is 14x12cm.

Make sure you measure your door or window

This type of cat flap, as its name suggests, is designed to be affixed to the door. It allows your pet to move in and out at their convenience. These flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and sit in the middle of the door. They have a two-way swinging opening that is opened by lightly pushing on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps that provide extra security, so your cat won't be able to simply enter the door from the outside.

A window is another common place to put a cat flap, and they're easy enough to fit, although they often need to be located high enough as it's difficult for dogs and cats to reach them otherwise. If the window is too high to use a cat flap then ramps, steps or specially built stairs can be used to help the animal access it.

It is possible to put an egress into a brickwall, but it is not recommended for people who aren't familiar with the masonry industry. This 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 there are, a hole needs to be created for them and this is something you should always seek professional advice on. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask can help you avoid inhaling the sawdust created when cutting through your walls.

Choose the right cat flap

There are a variety of cat flaps on the market and each one comes with different features. Some flaps are equipped with security features, such as magnetic locks or microchips which prevent unauthorised entry. They also stop your pet from letting guests or animals to enter the home. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to keep out draughts and moisture.

There are various sizes available depending on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular while others are circular or square. The kind of cat flap you pick will depend on the size of the opening and the type of window or door you're installing it to.

Last but not least, take into consideration the kind of opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It won't prevent other animals and cats from entering the room, and you could be letting in drafts.

After you've chosen the right cat flap and measured the window or door and window, it's now time to put it in place it. Begin by marking the height of the belly on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit-level to make sure the line is not too low and is straight on the door. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Next, use your Jigsaw to cut the outline in the door. Once you are satisfied with the result finish sanding the edges and drill through the pencil marks to create holes for screws.

Prepare the Tools

Like any DIY tasks, it's best to have the appropriate tools for the job. You'll require the cat flap, an eraser and tape measure along with a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the kind of door or window.

If you're installing in a composite door, you should consult 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 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. If possible, use a template to help you determine the dimensions of the hole you'll will need to cut.

After you've cut the required hole, you'll need to sand down the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will prevent any water damage or rust from happening in the near 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. Once the sealant is dry it is time to install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to come and go whenever it wants, installing a flap can help. Most people can install the flap by themselves. However when you plan to install it in the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you may need a professional.

Look at the instructions included with the cat flap. There is a template drawing. This will give you an idea of where holes for the flap have to be drilled into the door. Mark the areas you'll have to drill with the pencil.

After you've marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw and cut out the the cat flap. It is a relatively simple task, but you'll have to be comfortable using the jigsaw. If you are worried about doing this yourself, there are many companies that can do this for you at a very low cost.

Then, screw the inner part to the hole of your door. It might be necessary to seal the flap before you do this in order to ensure it is waterproof and weatherproof. You can then put the outer part of the cat flap on the top of the fixing bolts and tighten them all. It is recommended that you test the flap with your cat to ensure that it functions properly and that they are able to get in and out of it.