If you’re constantly up and down, letting your cat in and out, a cat flap can offer your furry friend the freedom to come and go as they please.
But it’s not just about convenience—giving your cat more independence has incredible benefits for both of you. From encouraging natural behaviours to reducing stress, a cat flap can improve your cat’s quality of life and make your day-to-day routine easier.
Cats are territorial, and with access to the outdoors, your cat can climb, stalk, and investigate their environment—activities that keep their senses sharp and their natural behaviours alive. Even if they’re just venturing into the garden.
Plus, this independence can prevent boredom. Indoor-only cats may develop frustration or even destructive habits when they can’t express their instincts. A cat flap is the perfect way to strike a balance, giving your cat the freedom they crave while keeping their habits healthy.
For you, this means no more interruptions to let your cat in or out. Whether you’re working from home, relaxing, or away for the day, you can rest easy knowing your cat has access to both indoor comfort and outdoor adventure.
For multi-cat households, a flap can also help reduce tension.
Installing a cat flap might seem simple, but it’s easy to make mistakes that could lead to problems later on. From poor placement to skipping crucial steps, these errors can affect your cat’s comfort and your home’s security.
One of the biggest mistakes is installing the cat flap in a poor location. Placing it too high or too low can make it difficult for your cat to use comfortably, especially for kittens or older cats.
Measure your cat’s height from the ground to their belly and install the base of the flap at that level. Ensure it’s in an accessible, low-traffic area where your cat feels safe entering and exiting.
Installing a cat flap without precise measurements can result in a misaligned or uneven fit. This can cause drafts, make the flap hard to use, or even compromise your door or wall’s integrity. Improperly securing the cat flap can also lead to drafts, water leaks, or even make it easy for unwanted animals to push through.
Use a level to ensure proper alignment and double-check before cutting into any material. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and use the appropriate screws or adhesives for the surface. Check for gaps around the edges and seal them to prevent drafts or pests from entering.
And not all cat flaps are designed for every surface. Installing a flap meant for wood into glass, or vice versa, can lead to poor functionality or even damage to the door or flap. If you’re installing a flap into glass or a double-glazed door, hire a professional to avoid cracks or breakage.
You can also install a cat flap into a glass door or window. Whether the glass is single-pane, toughened, or double-glazed, you'll need a new pane designed with a hole pre-cut for the cat flap. For double-glazed units, the replacement pane must maintain the seal to prevent heat loss.
A professional glazier or installer will measure and replace the entire glass pane to ensure a proper fit and that it’s all sealed properly.
At Able we can install cat flaps into wooden and UPVC doors or doors and windows with the glass already in place. With glass or UPVC installations, once you’ve purchased your cat flap, your Able installer will measure the glass or UPVC panel - and the cat flap - and then order a new unit with the hole cut. This maintains the strength of the panel and keeps the window’s sealing in proper order. The installer will then fit the unit for you.
If you’re renting, the answer isn’t always straightforward, as it depends on your lease agreement, your landlord’s preferences, and the type of property you’re renting.
Start by reviewing your lease. Many rental agreements explicitly prohibit structural changes to the property, which includes installing a cat flap. If the lease doesn’t address this directly, you’ll still need your landlord’s written permission to make alterations.
Be upfront with your landlord about your plans. Explain why you need a cat flap and assure them that the installation will be professional and reversible. Highlight the benefits of a cat flap, such as reduced wear and tear on doors from scratching or pawing. Some landlords may agree if they see the value or if you offer to restore the door before moving out.
If your landlord doesn’t allow permanent modifications, consider alternatives like:
If your landlord gives you the green light, it’s important to follow through on their conditions. You may need to hire a professional installer, use a specific type of flap, or agree to restore the door to its original state when you leave. Keep all agreements in writing to avoid disputes later.
If you’re planning to stay in the rental for a long time, a cat flap could be a worthwhile upgrade. However, if your rental is short-term, non-permanent solutions might be a better fit. Consider the costs and effort involved in both installation and potential restoration.
A cat flap is a great way to give your cat more independence, but it can also invite unwanted visitors like stray animals, pests, or other cats. Luckily, there are several ways to secure your cat flap and reduce the chances of another animal getting in.
Modern cat flaps come with advanced features designed to keep unwanted visitors out. Microchip-enabled cat flaps are a great option. These flaps only open when they detect your cat’s unique microchip, preventing other animals from gaining access. If your cat isn’t microchipped, you can opt for a magnetic or collar-activated flap, which only opens for your cat when they wear a special collar tag. If you use a collar-activated cat flap, ensure your cat’s collar is always properly fitted and up to date. A loose or broken collar may prevent the flap from detecting your cat, leaving it open for others to enter.
Many cat flaps offer a locking feature that allows you to control access. You can set it to one-way, two-way, or fully locked, depending on your needs. For example, you can set the flap to only open for your cat to exit and not re-enter, keeping other animals from sneaking in. If you’re away from home, locking the flap altogether can ensure no surprises.
Some smart cat flaps allow you to set a curfew or schedule when your cat can go in and out. This feature can be especially useful to limit access during certain hours, like at night when other animals might be more active. A timer can give you peace of mind, ensuring your cat stays safe inside during high-risk times.
If you want complete control over when the flap opens, look for a model with a manual lock. These flaps can be locked and unlocked by you, either via a key or a simple sliding barrier mechanism. It’s a reliable way to prevent any outside animals from entering when you're not around.
Make sure the area around your cat flap is as secure as possible. Check for gaps, cracks, or areas where another animal could squeeze through. Even the best cat flaps need regular maintenance. Check for any signs of wear, damage, or malfunction. A loose or broken flap can allow unwanted animals to slip through, so be sure to repair or replace any damaged parts.
Installing a cat flap is a great way to give your cat more freedom, but should you tackle the project yourself or call in a pro?
Installing a cat flap yourself can save money, especially if you already have the necessary tools. But one of the biggest mistakes in fitting a cat flap is taking incorrect measurements as improper installation can lead to drafts, misaligned flaps, or security issues. The internet is littered with cat flap fail pics.
Professionals have experience working with a variety of flap types, including tricky materials like glass or metal. Installing a cat flap into glass, metal, or double-glazed doors can be challenging and may require specialised tools and knowledge. A professional also ensures the cat flap is installed securely and aligned correctly, reducing drafts and potential issues. Professional installation might also be required if you’re living in a rental property.
Life can get hectic, and it’s not always possible to be at your cat’s beck and call. A cat flap offers the perfect solution, giving your cat freedom without needing you to open the door every time. Whether you’re at work, running errands, or simply enjoying a lazy morning in bed, your cat can take care of their needs.
This flexibility is especially helpful if your cat has a routine of their own, like going out to explore at dawn or lounging outside in the afternoon sun. A cat flap ensures they won’t miss out, even if you’re not there to let them out. If you rent, always check the details of your lease and get your landlord’s permission. There are temporary options if needed, that won’t break the rules of your lease.
If you’re looking for a way to improve your cat’s happiness and make your daily life a bit easier, a cat flap is a small investment. For professional installation, why not call Able today on 0330 108 4111?