If you are a cat lover and owner, then you probably have wondered how to put a cat flap in your door. A cat flap, or cat door, is a small door designed to allow your cat to come in and out of your house freely. There are several types, including magnetic cat flaps, microchip cat flaps, and manual locking cat flaps.
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Types of Installation & Cost Range
Cat flap repair or new cat flap door installation should be done by a professional. The reason is that if a non-qualified person tries to install the door, there is a danger of damaging the door or crippling the mechanism. In addition, a professional cat flap fitter can do the task very neatly, ensuring that you and your cat stay happy.
The table below presents the cost of different types of cat flap doors.
| Type of Cat Flap Installation | Cost Range (in £) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Cat Flap Installation | £40 to £100 | Involves installing a basic cat flap into an existing door or wall. This type of installation is usually straightforward and does not require any modifications to the existing structure. |
| Custom Cat Flap Installation | £100 to £300 | Involves creating a custom-sized cat flap and modifying an existing door or wall to fit it. The cost will depend on the materials used and the complexity of the installation. |
| Electronic Cat Flap Installation | £150 to £500 | Involves installing an electronic cat flap that can be operated by a microchip or collar tag. These cat flaps tend to be more expensive due to the technology involved. |
| Glass Cat Flap Installation | £300 to £800 | Involves installing a cat flap into a glass door or window. This requires specialised equipment and expertise, which can drive up the cost. |
| Wall Cat Flap Installation | £400 to £1,000 | Involves installing a cat flap through an external wall. This more complex installation requires cutting through the wall, creating a tunnel, and installing the cat flap. |
Lowest Price: £40
Highest Price: £1,000
Cat Flap Mechanisms
The only thing that costs a considerable amount is the cat flap mechanism. Although cat flap installation frees are about the same, the cost of the mechanism depends on the model you choose.
The Classic Cap Flap
The classic cat flap is a two-way pet door allowing your cat to enter the house. These cat doors are relatively inexpensive to buy. Yet they are only suitable for some properties. The reason is that if other cats are around the house, they might also try to get in. Furthermore, there is still the chance that the cat might bring in dirt or debris. Security is another concern if the cat flap door does not lock and always stays open.
Lowest range: £10
Highest price: £30
Lockable Cat Flap
The lockable cat flap lets you keep the cat inside or outside the house. This way, you ensure your cat stays where it should be when required. Locking cat flaps include a security barrier or cover to keep other animals outside the property at night. And offer protection against bad weather.
Here is a table with different price options for lockable cat flaps in the UK:
| Brand | Model | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| PetSafe | Staywell Lockable Cat Flap | £20 – £40 |
| SureFlap | Microchip Cat Flap | £50 – £80 |
| Cat Mate | Lockable Cat Flap | £15 – £30 |
| Ferplast | Lockable Cat Flap | £20 – £35 |
| Trixie | Lockable Cat Flap | £15 – £25 |
Please note that prices may vary depending on the retailer and promotions. It’s important to compare prices and features before making a purchase.
Lowest Price: £15
Highest Price: £80
Infrared Cat Flap
Infrared cat flaps are more expensive, but they give your more control over which animal enters your property through the cat flap. These cat flaps work with an infrared key that needs to match one of your pets for the pet door to open.
Each infrared key comes with a colour code, depending on its frequency. This way, you can also check the colour of your neighbour’s cat flap to change the colour of your cat’s key when both are the same. There is also the option of buying more than one key if you want to allow your relatives’ or friends’ cats to be able to access your home too.
Infrared Cat Flap Prices
The cost of an infrared cat flap in the UK can vary depending on the brand and model you choose. Here are some rough estimates of the cost of different types of infrared cat flaps in the UK:
| Type of Infrared Cat Flap | Cost Range (in £) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Infrared Cat Flap | £50 to £100 | Uses a simple sensor to detect your cat’s collar tag or microchip and unlock the flap. It may have basic features such as selective entry and exit or locking options. |
| Advanced Infrared Cat Flap | £100 to £200 | It may have more advanced features, such as multiple access options, timer controls, and adjustable sensitivity settings. It may also have a stronger motor and be more durable. |
| Smart Infrared Cat Flap | £200 to £400 | May have smart connectivity options, such as the ability to connect to your smartphone or home automation system. It may also have additional features, such as a built-in camera, motion sensor, or health monitoring. |
Magnetic Cat Flap
Magnetic cat flaps allow your pet to enter the house through the cat flap using a unique collar or tag. However, bear in mind that the system can take a little time to recognize the cat, which means that it will not enter and exit the property instantly. Furthermore, as with infrared cat flaps, other pets in your neighbourhood might have the same magnetic device allowing them access to the house.
| rand | Model | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| SureFlap | Microchip Cat Flap Connect | £100 – £150 |
| PetSafe | Magnetic Cat Flap | £30 – £60 |
| Cat Mate | Electromagnetic Cat Flap | £30 – £50 |
| Ferplast | Magnetic Cat Flap | £20 – £30 |
| Trixie | Magnetic Cat Flap | £25 – £40 |
Lowest Price: £20
Highest Price: £150
Microchip Cat Flaps
Microchip cat flaps are the most expensive option but also the one that offers the highest control. These cat flats work by placing an electronic tag on the cat’s collar or embedding it under the cat’s skin. In addition, each microchip is coded only to your cat to prevent other pets from accessing your home. They cannot get into the house if they follow behind your cat. You can also program microchip cat flaps to work with different pets in your household.
| Brand | Model | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| SureFlap | Microchip Cat Flap Connect | £100 – £150 |
| PetSafe | Magnetic Cat Flap | £30 – £60 |
| Cat Mate | Electromagnetic Cat Flap | £30 – £50 |
| Ferplast | Magnetic Cat Flap | £20 – £30 |
| Trixie | Magnetic Cat Flap | £25 – £40 |
Lowest Price: £25
Highest Price: £150
Prices may vary depending on the retailer and promotions. Hence, it’s important to compare prices and features before purchasing.
Cat Flap Installation in Glass Door Cost
The cost of installing a cat flap in a glass door in the UK can vary depending on factors such as the type of glass, size of the cat flap, and installation method. For traditional glazier installation, prices can range from £150-£300. For specialist cat flap installation services, prices can range from £250-£400.
Traditional Glazier Installation involves hiring a professional glazier to cut a hole in your glass door and install the cat flap. The cost can range from £150 to £300 depending on the size and type of glass and the cat flap you choose.
Specialist Cat Flap Installation: Some companies offer specialist cat flap installation services that use special tools and methods to install the cat flap without removing the glass. The cost for this service can range from £250-£400 depending on the size and type of cat flap and the type of glass in your door.
These prices are just estimates. The cost of cat flap installation can vary depending on your location, the brand and the cat flat. It’s best to get quotes from several professionals to compare prices and find the best option for your needs and budget.
Cat Flap uPVC Installation Cost
The cost of installing a cat flap in a uPVC door can vary depending on several factors, such as the size type of the cat flap, the brand, and the complexity of the installation. On average, you can expect to pay between £40 and £100 for a standard cat flap uPVC door installation.
However, if you want to install a cat flap door mechanism with more advanced features, such as microchip technology, the cost might increase. Try to get a few quotes from trusted installers before deciding how to move forward.
Cat Flap Repair Advice
- The first thing you need to do is check to ensure that no obstacle prevents the flap from opening or closing.
- If there are any obstacles, remove them and try again.
- If that doesn’t work, check the locking mechanism and ensure it functions properly.
- If it’s damaged or worn, you may need to replace it.
- If the cat flap itself is damaged, you can either replace it or try to patch it up with a strong adhesive.
- When replacing the cat flap, measure the opening and choose an appropriate flap.
- Having a pet can be extremely nice and bring in lots of improvement in your daily routine.
In which doors you cannot install a cat flap door:
- uPVC Door Panels
- Glass Doors
- Wooden Doors
- Aluminum and Metal Skinned Doors
- Composite Doors
- Porches
- Conservatories
- Windows
- Double/Single Glazed Units
- Sliding Patio Doors
- French Doors
Why Choose A Professional Cat Flap Fitter
Many homeowners might think that attempting to DIY the project will save them money, but they often end up spending more time and money than expected.
- Cat flap installation only.
- Supply & installation of cat flat.
- Replace the existing cat flap in the original panel.
- Removal of the existing cat flap and installation of new uPVC panel, glass, etc
We hope that you find the above cat flap door fitting cost advice useful enough. Remember, if you cannot do the job yourself, is always worth trying to have a professional fitter do it for you. It is really worth the investment to make your cat happy!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
A cat flap is a small opening in your door that allows your cat to come and go as it pleases without you having to worry about opening and closing the door constantly. Here’s how to put a cat flap in your door.
1. Choose where your cat is most comfortable and where the cat flap will be most convenient.
2. Cut out the opening for the cat flap.
3. Carefully measure and cut out the hole for the cat flap with a jigsaw or a circular saw.
4. Be sure to follow the instructions that come with the cat flap to ensure that the hole is the right size.
5. Install the cat flap and secure it in place according to the instructions that come with the product.
6. Most cat flaps come with a locking mechanism that allows you to control when the cat flap is open or closed.
7. Be sure to secure the cat flap in place and add weather stripping to help prevent drafts.
8. Train your cat to use the cat flap.
Start by propping the cat flap open and letting your cat explore it on their own. In addition, when your cat is comfortable with the flap, please encourage them to use it by placing their favourite treats on the other side.
A microchip cat flap is a pet product designed for cats and dogs that enables them to come and go as they please while also containing them within a certain area.
It differs from a typical cat flap or dog door in that it is equipped with a microchip reader that allows only authorised pets to enter or exit through the flap. The microchip, implanted in the cat or dog’s body by a vet, is a small and grain-of-rice-sized radio-frequency identification RFID device containing an identification number unique to the pet.
This number is programmed into the cat flap’s locking mechanism, which is utilised to release the latch and allow access through the flap. When the pet approaches the cat flap, the scanner reads the implanted microchip and recognises the identification number.
If the number matches the one programmed into the locking mechanism, the flap opens, enabling the pet to come in or go out. This system ensures that only pets with authorised microchips are granted access, preventing unwanted intruders or strays from entering the home. Some manufacturers of microchip cat flaps, such as SureFlap, offer a range of products that cater to various requirements and preferences.
These include flap-opening options across walls, doors, and even double-glazed glass. There are also different sizes available to accommodate small cats, large cats, and small dogs.
The microchip cat flap can also operate magnetically or through the use of collar tags. However, microchipping is the most secure and humane option since it eliminates the risks of collars and prevent accidents such as choking.
Some high-tech pet brands like PetSafe, Endura, Staywell, and High Tech Pet, offer a weatherproof and sturdy design made from strong materials, including weather-stripping for extra insulation, liners for easy installation, and electromagnetic or radio-frequency locking mechanism for more precise pass-through access.
Microchip cat flaps present enormous benefits to pet owners in terms of convenience, security, and safety. It’s a practical solution to enable cats and dogs to access their litter boxes or kennels, ultimately improving their quality of life while providing assurance to pet owners.
Additionally, the technology is also useful for animal shelters that want to keep their animals safe and secure. Installing a microchip cat flap involves cutting out a panel on the door or window of the house and fitting it with a latch or hinge that operates the flap opening.
Adding a cat flap to your glass door can initially seem daunting, but with the right tools and patience, it can become a simple DIY project for any pet owner.
Many cat flaps are available on the market, but the most popular options are magnetic, microchip, and electronic.
You can install a cat flap to your glass door by carefully unscrewing the hinges or using a putty knife to pry the pane away from the frame. After you remove the glass pane is removed, you can start cutting out the hole for the cat flap. Use a glass cutting tool to create a hole in the desired location for the flap.
Ensure your pet’s door is big enough so they can come in and go easily.
After getting your new cat flap, remove the glass pane from your doorframe
by carefully unscrewing the hinges or using a putty knife to pry the pane away from the frame. Now that the glass pane is removed, you can start cutting out the hole for the cat flap.
Remember to take accurate measurements to place the cat flap easily without any problems. The next step is to fit the cat flap into the hole. If your cat flap comes with a frame. Fit it into the hole and use screws to secure it in place.
If your cat flap doesn’t have a frame, you can seal any gaps between the flap and the glass with weather-stripping tape. When securing the cat flap, ensure the locking mechanism is positioned on the right side of the door.
It’s essential to ensure the cat flap is appropriately sealed to prevent any air leaks or water damage. In conclusion, adding a cat flap to your glass door can be a simple DIY project with the right tools and preparation.
Pet doors, also known as dog doors or cat doors, are convenient for pet owners as they allow their furry friends to come and go as they please.
However, pet doors may also pose a security risk because cat doors are big enough for unwanted visitors. Here are some ways to secure them.
1. Many pet doors come with a built-in locking mechanism. This can be a flap that can be closed manually or a magnet that keeps the door shut.
2. Some pet doors also come with microchip technology that allows your pet to use the door.
3. Upgrade to an electronic pet door. It uses a collar or microchip to allow authorised pets to enter or exit the house.
5. Use a pet screen. A pet screen is a mesh screen installed over the pet door to prevent animals from getting through. A pet screen can be particularly helpful for outdoor cat doors.
6. Use a door insert. A door insert is a panel that fits in your sliding glass or patio door. It includes a built-in pet door and helps to prevent unwanted animals from entering.
7. Several high-tech pet doors are available that use sensors to detect movement and only open when a pet needs to come through. High-tech pet doors can be expensive, but they offer added security and convenience.
8. Use weather stripping. Weatherstripping is a foam or rubber material that you can use to seal gaps around your cat door. Weather stripping can also be used to prevent animals from getting through and improve energy efficiency. Install it in an interior door.
In summary, several ways to secure a cat doo, including using a locking mechanism, upgrading to an electronic pet door, using a pet screen or door insert, considering a high-tech pet door, using weather-stripping, and installing it in an interior door. Remember, the type of cat door you choose depends mainly on your specific needs and preference and the level of security you require for your home and furry friend.
Useful Resources
- https://www.chewy.com/b/doors-448
- https://www.catsbest.eu/getting-cats-used-to-cat-flap/
- https://a-z-animals.com/reviews/best-cat-doors/
- https://www.thesprucepets.com/best-cat-doors-4151956
- https://www.doubleglazingfunding.co.uk/install-a-cat-or-dog-flap-in-a-glass-door-installing-a-doggie-door-in-double-glazed-sealed-units/