Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is a fantastic step for any pet owner. There are many options available for you, whether your cat is older and requires extra security or if you have kittens that need to be vetted.

It can be intimidating for people who aren't experts in installing a cat flap, but with the proper guidelines, it's easy. The key is preparation, planning and accuracy.

Choose the Right Door or Window

There's a wide selection of cat flaps that are available, some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from leaving or entering) and cat flaps others with advanced features like microchip door entry systems. It is important to think about how it is easy to train your cat to use the flap, before you buy and install one.

Depending on the design of your house, it's generally best to place the cat flap in a window or door that opens to an area that is protected from the garden so that your cat is secure when entering and leaving the home. If you can this will also allow them a way back should they be chased by a cat or by a human intent to harm them.

It is possible to install a cat flap in a upvc door panels cat flap door or a glass window however it's not as easy as fitting one into a wooden door. This is because uPVC or composite door cat flap doors come in various thicknesses. This could affect the method of cutting holes, and the material you put into.

If you're installing the flap in the glass of a door it is recommended to find a glazier who is experienced in this type of work to avoid any costly mistakes. If you're installing the flap on a wooden door, start by introducing your cat to it prior to fitting it so that they can get used to its shape and size, and explore it from all angles.

Find out the size of your cat's belly

To install an appropriate cat flap that is a good fit for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's size. This will help you ensure that the cat flap is at the right height on the door or window and that it's big enough to allow him to enter and out easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back and face, as well as the legs. The extra padding offers your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics felines are famous for.

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

Measure Your Door or Window

As the name suggests, this type of cat flap is designed to be affixed to a door and provides a way for your pet to enter or leave at any time it wishes. They are typically made of plastic or aluminium and simply rest in the middle of the door. They come with the possibility of a swinging door that opens by pressing lightly on either side. The flaps are available in locking versions that provide additional security which means that your cat can't enter the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also commonly used oon't prevent other cats and pets from entering however, and you could let in draughts.

It's time to install your cat flap. Start 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 that it is straight across the door. Utilize your spirit level to draw a sketch of the cat flap. Then, use a Jigsaw to cut the door's outline. When you're satisfied with the result, sand the edges and then drill through the pencil marks to make holes for the screws.

Prepare the Tools

It's essential to have the right tools for undertaking any DIY project. The main things you'll need are the cat flap along with a tape measure, a good pencil as well as a spirit level, a file, drill and an jigsaw (depending on your window cat flap or door type).

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

For wooden or uPVC doors you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap using a jigsaw and follow the instructions given by the manufacturer. Make use of a template 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 happening in the near future. It is also recommended to cover the holes in your door or window and the side of the flap to keep out rain and wind. Once the sealant has dried, you can install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

Fitting a flap will allow your cat to come and go whenever it pleases. It's a simple procedure that most people can do themselves, although you'll likely require the assistance of a professional if you are installing the flap in an unglazed door or any other type of uPVC door.

Start by looking at the instructions included with the flap to locate the drawing template. This will give you an idea of where the holes for the flap need to be made in the door. Then, mark the places in which you will have to drill using pencil.

After you have marked the area on your door, you can use the jigsaw to cut the design for the cat flap in upvc door panel flap. It's a relatively easy task, but you'll need to be comfortable using a Jigsaw. If you are worried about doing this yourself, there are a lot of companies that can do this for you at a low cost.

Then, attach the outer part to the hole of your door. You may need to apply sealant prior to doing this to ensure it is weather and water resistant. You can then put the outer portion of the flap on the top of the fixing bolts and then tighten them all together. You should test the cat flap on your cat to make sure that it's working properly and allows them to exit and enter easily.