Installing a cat flap in your home is a fantastic step for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and requires extra security, or you have new kittens who require a vet check, there are plenty of options there to choose from.

Installing a cat flap can be intimidating for people who aren't professionals, but with the right instructions, it's not hard to complete. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and accuracy.

Select the Right Door or Window

There's a wide selection of cat flaps that are available including some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet going out or coming in) and others with high-tech features such as microchips for door entry systems. It is important to consider how it is easy to teach your cat to use the flap, before you buy and install one.

Depending on the design of your house It is recommended to put the cat flap near the form of a door or window that opens onto an area of protection in the garden so that your cat will feel secure entering and leaving the home. If you can it will also provide them a way back should they be pursued by a different cat or by a human intent to hurt them.

It is possible to install the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it's not the same as fitting one on a wooden door. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in different thicknesses. This can impact the how holes are cut and the material you put into.

To avoid costly mistakes It is recommended to consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you're installing the flap on an old wooden door, begin by the cat with it before you fit it to allow them to become familiar with its shape and size, and explore it from every angle.

Find out the size of your cat's belly

It is important to know the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap you put in is a perfect fit. This will allow you to make sure that the flap is at the right height for the door or window and also that it's large enough for him to enter and leave easily.

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

Alternately, you could use your pet's weight to gauge how big an opening you require. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg, for example, the suggested cat flap size is 14 x 12cm.

Make sure you measure your door or window

This kind of cat flap, as its name suggests, is designed to be installed into a door. It allows your pet to enter and exit at its convenience. The flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and are located in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that opens by lightly pushing on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps, which provide additional security to ensure that your cat won't be able to simply traverse through the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also frequently used in windows. They are able to be easily installed, however they have to be placed at a high level as cats and dogs have a difficult time to access them. If the window isn't sufficient in height to be used as a cat's flap, then you can use steps, ramps or specially designed stairs to assist the animal in reaching it.

It is possible to insert an egress into brick walls, however it is not recommended for people who are not experienced in masonry. This could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it is important to make sure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. If they are, an opening must be made for them. upvc door panel with cat flap fitted is something that you should always seek expert advice on. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask will ensure that you don't breathe in the dust that is generated when you cut into your walls.

Choose the right cat flap

There are a variety of cat flaps on the market and all of them offer various features. Some come with security options like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by unauthorized persons and stop your pet allowing guests or other animals to enter the home. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to keep out draughts and moisture.

There is also a choice of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular, while others are circular or square. Choosing the right type of cat flap will be dictated by the space you have available and the kind of door or window you are fitting it to.

The last thing to do is take into consideration the kind of opening mechanism your cat flap will use. A simple aluminium or plastic swing-out door is an option and is usually the least expensive. It won't stop other pets and cats from entering however, and you could be letting in drafts.

It's time to put in your cat flap. Begin by marking the belly height on the door with your ruler. Make use of a spirit-level to make sure that the line isn't too low and is straight on the door. Use your spirit level to draw a template for the flap for cats. Then, using a Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. Once you are happy with the result finish sanding the edges and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for screws.

Make the Tools

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

If you're installing in a composite door, it is recommended to check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes because this could affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this case, you'll probably need to fit an additional pane of toughened glass instead.

You'll need the jigsaw to cut your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions provided by the manufacture. Use a template if possible to mark the size hole you'll require.

After you've made the hole, you'll need to sand the edges of the opening. This will stop any water damage or rust from happening in the future. In the end, you must apply any sealant you require to the rear of the cat flap, and to the holes in the door or window to block the elements of wind and rain. After the sealant has dried then you can put up your new cat-flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to be able to come and go as it pleases, fitting flaps can aid. This is a straightforward process that most people can do by themselves, though you may require the assistance of an expert if you're installing the flap in the form of a glass door or another type of uPVC door.

Begin by studying the instructions provided with your cat flap to locate the drawing template. This will provide you with an idea of where the holes for the flap will need to be drilled in the door. Mark the areas in which you will need to drill with the pencil.

After you've marked the area on your door, you can use the jigsaw and cut out the the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task, but you'll have to be comfortable using the saw. If you are concerned about doing this yourself, there are plenty of businesses that can handle this for you at a very low cost.

Next, you will need to attach the inside of the cat flap to the door's hole. It might be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this in order to keep it weatherproof and watertight. The outer part of your cat flap can be placed on the bolts' tops and then tacked together. It is recommended to test the flap with your cat to ensure that it works correctly and that they are able to get in and out of it.
upvc door panel with cat flap fitted