Fit a Cat Flap

Getting a new cat or have a cat that is eager to explore the outdoors but wants to get back inside easily? Consider installing a cat flap to keep kitty from waking you up in the middle of the night for entry. There are many different types of cat flap on the market. All are installed in a very similar way. This article uses a standard, lockable cat flap as an example.

Steps

  1. Purchase a cat flap and assemble the items you will need.
  2. Measure your cat. In order to ensure that your cat can come and go with ease, position your cat flap {{safesubst:#invoke:convert|convert}} / 4 - 6" from the floor. This is the average belly height of a cat.
    • Mark this height with a pencil in two places, so as to ensure a straight line.
  3. Position the cat flap. As is most commonly the case, you may choose to fit your cat flap in the middle of the door. If this is so, use the tape measure to mark the centre of the door and make a mark at this point. Using a ruler, draw a straight horizontal line that crosses the centre point that you marked.
  4. Attach the template. Cat flaps come with a paper template that shows you where you need to drill.
    • Position the bottom of the template on the pencil that you drew earlier. Make sure that the centre point on the template is in line with the centre point that you drew on the door. Use masking tape to stick the template in position.
  5. Select a drill bit. You will need to use a flat bit that is slightly wider than the blade of your jigsaw. Your instructions may suggest the necessary width. Before using your drill, remember your drill safety - see "Tips" below.
  6. Drill holes. Drill a hole in each corner of the template. The position of these holes will be clearly indicated. Once drilled, these holes will allow you to cut out the shape of the cat flap with the jigsaw.
    • Remove the template and blow out any sawdust.
  7. Outline the opening. Using your Make a Bow With a Ruler and pencil, draw four lines which connect the holes and outline the cat flap opening.
  8. Saw along the lines. For steady sawing, first make sure the door is closed. Before you pick up the jigsaw, remember that using any saw has its risks, so observe "Saw Safety" in "Tips" below. Now use the jigsaw to cut along your pencil outline, moving from one hole to the next.
  9. Tidy up the hole. After you have turned your jigsaw off, push out the wood to reveal the hole.
    • You will need to smooth down the inside edges with a piece of sandpaper. Remove any excess sawdust and keep sanding until you are happy with the finish.
  10. Test the fit. Place the front of the cat flap over the hole and check that the flap moves in and out with ease.
  11. Mark the screw holes. With the front of the cat flap in position make a mark through each of the screw holes located in the four corners of the cat flap.
  12. Select a drill bit. To drill the pilot holes, select a bit that is slightly narrower than the screws and insert it into the drill. Remember your drill safety.
  13. Drill screw holes. Drill on each of the four pencil marks until you reach the other side of the door.
  14. Screw together. It's now time to fix the two sides of the cat flap together. Hold the front of the cat flap in position and gently ease the four screws into their holes.
    • Open the door. Pick up the back of the cat flap and place it over the protruding screws.
    • Position yourself with an arm either side of the door so you can attach the nuts to the screws. Carefully place a nut onto a screw. This will be fiddly. Hold the nut secure in one hand and with your other hand, use a screwdriver to tighten the screws. When the nut is as tight as you can make it, repeat this process with the other three screws.
  15. Check it. Test the cat flap to make sure it works. Show your cat and begin encouraging him to use it!

Tips

  • Drill safety:
    • Put on your goggles.
    • Make sure that all loose items of clothing and hair are tucked away.
    • Clear the area of any potential hazards and find a steady standing position.
  • Saw Safety:
    • Make sure that you are wearing safety goggles and clear the area of potential hazards.
    • Find a steady standing position and remember to watch your fingers when you do start sawing.
  • Be aware that other critters (raccoons, opossums, etc.) may also discover your cat flap and decide to visit the interior of your house.

Warnings

  • Wild animals could walk into your house if it's an outside door. Some people install a cat flap on a door to the garage where a litterbox may be located or cats can find refuge from dogs.
  • Small children may crawl out of the house through the cat flap.

Things You'll Need

  • Cat flap kit, which includes :
    • Cat flap fixings
    • Template
  • Battery drill and drill bits, including flat wood cutting bits
  • Jigsaw
  • Screwdriver
  • Long ruler
  • Pencil
  • Tape measure
  • Masking tape
  • Sandpaper
  • Safety goggles
  • Dustpan and brush in case of mess

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