Cat flap height: How to find the right size

Imagine if your cat could come and go whenever it wanted - without you having to do anything. But what if the cat flap is too high or too low and your darling has to struggle? The ideal height for a cat flap is the distance between your cat's stomach and the floor, usually around 15cm.

In this article, you will learn how to determine the perfect height for the cat flap and what to do if the conditions are not ideal.

Why the height of the cat flap is so important

The height of the cat flap is crucial for your cat's comfort and safety. If the flap is too high, it may mean that your cat has to jump or climb to get through. Not only can this be uncomfortable , but it can also lead to health problems in the long term, such as joint problems. It is therefore important to get the height right and ensure that your cat can reach and use the flap with ease .

A wrongly positioned cat flap can also cause your cat to avoid it and instead use undesirable places to enter and exit. This can cause problems such as:

• Your cat may try to get through windows or other unsuitable openings, which can be dangerous .
• It can become a security risk for your home if the hatch is installed in such a way that it is accessible to burglars.
• There is also a risk that your cat will become unhappy and stressed if it cannot explore its surroundings freely. That is why it is so important to plan the height of the cat flap carefully and to adapt it to your cat's needs.

Determine the optimal installation height

Finding the right height for the cat flap is not only a question of comfort, but also of your cat's safety. The ideal height is roughly the same as the distance between your cat's stomach and the floor, so usually around 15cm above the floor. This allows your cat to use the flap without much effort and promotes its freedom of movement .

To determine the optimal installation height, first measure the distance from your cat's belly to the floor while it is standing. This value will serve as a reference for the bottom edge of the cat flap. Bear in mind that different cats can have different masses, so if in doubt, take the mass of the smallest cat if several will be using the flap.

The structural conditions of your home also play a role. The flap should be installed in a door or wall that leads to a protected area of ​​the garden. Make sure that the flap is not impaired in its function by existing structures such as steps or high thresholds. Flexibility is required to find the perfect position.

Instructions: Installing a cat flap at the correct height

To install the cat flap at the correct height, you will need a few tools: a tape measure, a pencil, a spirit level, a drill, a cordless screwdriver and a jigsaw. First, remove the door or window you want to install the flap into from the hinges to make the work easier.

Mark the measured height on the door or window and use the spirit level to check that the mark is straight. Most cat flaps come with a template . Attach this to the chosen location with adhesive tape and then drill the holes. Then use the jigsaw to cut out the hole for the flap and file the edges smooth before inserting the flap and screwing it in place.

What to do if the cat flap is too high?

If the cat flap is installed too high, it can be a problem for your cat. However, there are simple solutions to fix this problem. One option is to install a small staircase or a platform that makes it easier for your cat to reach the flap.

Another option is to move the flap if this is structurally feasible. If neither of these is possible, you can also try to get your cat used to making a small jump by luring it with treats or toys. Patience and training are the key to success here.

Further questions about cat flaps

In addition to the correct height, there are other aspects to consider when choosing a cat flap. For example, it is important to know how to get a cat used to using the flap. Many cats recognize on their own that the flap is a passageway, but sometimes they need a little help to understand how it works. Here are some tips on how to get your cat used to the cat flap:

• Place treats or their favorite toy near the flap to stimulate interest.
• Show her how the flap works by opening and closing it for her.
• Be patient and give your cat time to get used to the new situation.

Another important point is security . Modern cat flaps often offer additional features such as microchip detection or infrared locking systems that prevent strange cats from entering the house. Here are some security aspects to consider:

• Consider whether a cat flap with microchip recognition would be useful for your cat, especially if you live in an area with many other cats.
• Make sure the hatch is not positioned in such a way that it could serve as an entry point for burglars .
• Note that the flap can also serve as an escape route if your cat needs to go outside quickly, for example in the event of conflicts with other pets or unfamiliar visitors.

With Flappie to the perfect cat flap

Flappie is revolutionizing the market with a smart cat flap that makes life easier for cats and their owners. Thanks to features such as selective access control and prey detection using AI-powered camera technology, Flappie offers real added value. Here are some points that show how Flappie makes installation and use easier:

• Easy Installation : Flappie is designed to be easy to install , whether in doors or walls.
• User-friendly app : With the Flappie app, you can conveniently control your cat flap and receive real-time notifications whenever your cat tries to come home with prey.
• Data protection : All data remains stored locally, so you don't have to worry about the security of your data . Visit https://flappie.ch now to learn more about Flappie's smart cat flap and take advantage of the pre-sale discount for an innovative home that stays free of unwanted prey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a cat flap a structural change?

Yes, installing a cat flap is a structural change as it is built into a door or wall. You should therefore check whether you need your landlord's consent or a permit before installing it.

Where is the best place to install a cat flap?

The cat flap should be installed in a door or wall that leads to a protected area of ​​the garden. Make sure that the flap is not impaired in its function by existing structures such as steps or high thresholds. The ideal installation height is the distance between your cat's belly and the floor, usually around 15cm above the floor.

What do I need to consider when using a cat flap?

When choosing a cat flap, make sure it is the correct height to match your cat's belly-to-floor distance to ensure comfort and safety. It is also important to place the cat flap so that it does not become a security risk to your home and that it leads to a protected area of ​​the garden. You should also consider safety features such as microchip detection or infrared locking systems to keep out strange cats and protect your cat.

How do you get a cat to go through the cat flap?

To get your cat used to the cat flap, you can place treats or their favorite toy near the flap to arouse interest. Show them how the flap works by opening and closing it for them. Be patient and give your cat time to get used to the new situation. Sometimes they need a little help to understand how the flap works.