A cat flap is an excellent way to give your pet some freedom and ease the burden of having them go in and out. It will also help your pet be less stressed and prevent them from entering the house when they're not wanted.

To place a cat flap on your door take a measurement from the bottom of their stomachs to the floor and mark an outline on the door panel. Make use of a spirit-level for checking whether the line is straight.

1. The kind of door

If you are fitting a cat flap into the uPVC door panel or double glazing glass sealed unit it is usually best to talk to an expert who can supply the uPVC glass or panel with a hole already cut into it. This can save lots of time and money and will help ensure the job is done correctly.

The most basic type of cat flap is a simple swinging door with two ways that allow your pet to go and come whenever it wants. They are typically the cheapest and can be fitted to all doors. However they don't seal well and may let in cold drafts as well as warm air in summer.

Another popular option is a microchip cat flap that detects your pet's unique microchip number and opens the flap for them to use. This prevents other animals and pets from using the flap and keeps your pet safe inside your home.

There are also cat flaps that allow you to lock the door for exit and entry. This allows you to control the time your pet leaves and enters, which is important if you have young children in the house.

The most important factor when choosing a cat flap is the size of your pet. This will dictate how large opening you'll need to make in the wall or door. It is important to be sure to measure your dog's size and then select the appropriate door.

When considering which type of flap to pick, you should also consider whether you would like it to be magnetic or infrared. Infrared and magnetic flaps are more expensive but they offer better security.


A reliable handyman will have a broad range of experience when it comes to fitting cat flaps and will be able to provide you with the best choice for your home. They'll be able to navigate the complexity of different types of walls and doors, and ensure that the cat flap is properly installed to ensure that your pet is secure.

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You'll need the correct cat flap if you are planning to install one on your uPVC doors. This will depend on the kind of pet you own, and the way you intend to utilize the flap. For instance, you may want to purchase an option that is lockable, which can be locked from inside the home. This will ensure your pet's safety while also preventing other people from entering your house.

You should also consider the shape of the flap. The majority of modern flaps are square or rectangular However, older flaps were more likely to be circular. It's crucial to gauge the height of your cat and locate a place at your door that is comfortable for them to enter and out.

Installing the flap is straightforward after you've chosen the right one and measured your door. Remove any decorative elements that are on the surface of your uPVC panel door and make sure it's level. After that then you can begin cutting. If your pet flap comes with an example template ensure that you follow exactly.

Then, cut carefully along the line. Be careful not to cut through any vertical rails or mullions. Repeat the process once the jigsaw is complete. Continue this procedure until you've made a hole that is enough that your pet can fit through.

Some pet flaps come with locks that can be used to secure the flap. This is especially useful if your indoor/outdoor cat is fearful of strangers or does not want to leave the house. You can also use this feature to keep your cat from escaping during the night or when you're away from home for long periods of time.

While it is possible to put the cat flap onto the composite or uPVC door but the process is slightly more challenging than putting it in an existing timber door. It is because composite doors are made of a combination of materials and any changes to them could void the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. If you decide to do this yourself, it's a good idea to consult a professional joiner before beginning.

3. The material

The material that your door is constructed of will impact the cost of installing a cat flap. It is because some materials are more difficult to cut and require more attention to install. This is particularly applicable to uPVC and composite doors, that require care to ensure the integrity of the door.

Before beginning the installation, make sure you have all the necessary equipment. This should include the cat flap itself as well as tape measure, decent pencil, a spirit level and drill. Follow the directions carefully by the manufacturer. If your cat flaps are made from glass, you must locate a glazier with expertise in this field.

Firstly, you will need to decide on where to position the cat flap inside the doorway. Idealy, the cat flap should be set at a height that is close to where your cat normally is. However, you will also be considering the thickness of your door. It is more difficult to cut thicker doors and they may be more difficult for you to install. It is easier and cheaper to install a cat flap after a new door is built.

Once you have located the best spot for the cat flap, mark the design with a pencil on a piece paper. You can use the template that came with your cat flap for this. If you don't have a template, you'll have to draw it yourself. Make sure the shape is square and not ellipse. If your cat flap is circular, you will also have to mark the holes around it. These are usually at 12 o’clock, 3 o’clock and 6 at o'clock.

After making the marks on the paper, remove the flap and mark the holes using an Jigsaw. The screws should be drilled into the door, too, to ensure that they are secured. Apply the sealant along the edges of the flap, and any holes in the doors, if required.

4. The installation method

Installing a cat flap in your door panel is not only a good idea for the safety of your pet, but it can be a great way to keep energy costs down. You can save money all year long by preventing drafts to enter your home. But before you get started it's essential to be aware of the process of installation and the various factors that could influence the cost of your project.

The first step is to pick the right type of flaps for your home. There are many types, from manual models to microchip- and app-controlled versions. Make sure you weigh the pros and cons of every option and determine what is truly necessary for your cat. Ask for professional advice if you're not sure what to purchase. A professional will be able to offer insights into the door's construction and the cat's behavior and help you select the best option for your home.

The next step is to figure out the best way to install the flap. Based on the kind of cat flap, the instructions should include a diagram that shows you how to make the hole you'll need to cut in your door. Make sure to precisely determine the width and height of your door and draw it on paper. If your cat flap is square, ensure that it's square and not slightly oval.

It's essential to use an experienced and reputable installer for your cat flap installation to ensure that the job is done right. A poorly installed pet flap can create security issues and damage to your door It's worth spending an extra few dollars to do the job right. HaMuch is a great site to request quotes from local contractors if you're unsure about installing the cat flap. We'll help you connect with professionals who can quickly install your cat flap.