Have you ever thought about giving your cat freedom without damaging your door?
Many cat owners are hesitant to install a cat flap because they are afraid of damage to their expensive doors.
A cat flap can actually be installed without cutting holes in the door by using alternative mounting methods such as clamping or sliding systems.
In this article, you will learn how to install a cat flap step by step without damaging your door, what materials and tools you need, practical installation tips and how to keep an eye on costs and safety.
Step-by-step instructions for installing a cat flap
Installing a cat flap gives your cat the freedom to come in and out on their own without you having to keep opening the door. This section will show you how to install a cat flap step by step without damaging your door. This is especially important if you live in a rented property or want to keep your door in good condition.
The first step in installing a cat flap is to carefully measure and position the flap. It is important that the flap is designed to suit your cat's size and comfort. You should choose the distance from the floor so that your cat can comfortably walk through the flap without having to bend down. The usual height is about 15 cm from the floor.
Once you have determined the position, it is time to attach the cat flap. It is crucial that you attach the flap securely and stably without damaging the door. In the next part, we will go through the materials and tools you will need for such an installation.
Materials and tools required for assembly

To install a cat flap, you will need some specific materials and tools. First, you will obviously need a cat flap, which you can find in most pet supply stores or online. Make sure to choose a model that suits both your cat's needs and the type of door you have.
In addition to the cat flap itself, here are some other tools and materials you may need:
- A tape measure to measure the installation location precisely
- A pencil and a ruler or set square to make the markings precisely
- A jigsaw to cut out the opening for the flap
- sandpaper to smooth sharp edges
- A cordless drill with appropriate drill bits for the material of your door or wall
- screwdriver to secure the flap
Practical assembly tips for a damage-free installation

To install a cat flap without causing damage, good preparation is crucial. Take enough time to plan the installation process carefully. Double check that the position where you want to attach the flap is the right one. Mark the screw hole locations carefully and check that the flap is level.
When drilling the holes for the screws, drill carefully and straight to avoid damaging the material. After assembly, it is important to check all screws and make sure they are tightened firmly, but not so tight that the material suffers. Check the flap for smooth operation and make sure it opens and closes without jamming.
Installation challenges and their solutions

One of the challenges of installing a cat flap is burglar resistance. Cat flaps can be unintended entry points for burglars. To increase security, you can install a microchip-controlled cat flap that only allows your cat access. Place the flap so that it cannot be used as a grab point.
If you live in a rental property, you may also need to consider the ability to dismantle. Check with your landlord to see if you can keep the original pane to replace when you move out. This will help avoid hassle later and ensure you get your deposit back without leaving any damage to the door.
Cost overview for the installation of a cat flap
The cost of installing a cat flap can vary greatly, depending on several factors such as the material of the door or wall, the type of cat flap and whether you do the installation yourself or hire a professional. You can buy a simple cat flap for between €60 and €250. If you also need a collar with a chip for controlled access control, this will cost an additional €10 to €30. The actual installation costs, if you hire a tradesman, are between €100 and €400, depending on the effort and materials. Here are some examples of the costs that may arise:
- Cat flap : 60 € - 250 €
- Collar with chip : 10 € - 30 €
- Installation costs by a professional : 100 € - 400 €
- Total cost : depends on selection and conditions, but typically between €170 and €680.
It's important to note that costs can also be higher, especially if special adaptations or materials are required. For example, fitting into a glass door or a particularly thick wall can present additional challenges that increase the price. If you're handy, you can save costs by installing the cat flap yourself. Many manufacturers provide detailed installation instructions that can help you with this. Here are some considerations to keep in mind when calculating costs:
- Type of door/wall : Installation in glass or thick walls can be more expensive.
- Self-assembly : Saves the cost of a craftsman, but requires time and the right tools.
- Additional safety features : Microchip-controlled flaps can be more expensive to purchase, but offer greater security.
Overall, it is advisable to obtain quotes before purchasing and plan the costs carefully to avoid surprises.
Safety and burglary protection of cat flaps
Security is a big issue when it comes to installing cat flaps. Many cat owners worry that installing a cat flap will increase the risk of a break-in. But with the right measures, you can make your cat flap burglar-proof. One option is to use microchip-controlled cat flaps that only allow access to your cat. This prevents unwanted guests from entering your home. You should also make sure to install the flap in a protected place, far away from easily accessible windows and doors. Here are some points to consider:
- The flap should be made of sturdy materials that cannot be easily broken open.
- Additional locks or electronic security systems increase safety.
- The positioning of the flap should be chosen strategically to minimize the risk of a break-in.
In addition to the physical security of the cat flap, legal aspects also play a role. If you live in a rented apartment, it is important to get your landlord's consent before installing a cat flap. This avoids later conflicts and ensures that you can remove the flap without leaving any residue when you move out. It is also advisable to have a written agreement about the installation and removal obligations. This protects you and ensures that both parties are clearly informed about the conditions. Also note that the installation of a cat flap can affect your insurance cover. Therefore, clarify with your insurance company in advance whether and how the installation will affect your cover. Here are some legal and insurance points that you should not overlook:
- Obtain written consent from the landlord.
- Clearly regulate dismantling obligations.
- Review insurance coverage and adjust if necessary.
Discover the benefits of the Flappie cat flap – try it now!
The Flappie cat flap is not just a simple door for your cat, but an innovative solution that brings cleanliness and security to your home. Thanks to the advanced technology with selective access control and prey detection by camera and AI, you can be sure that no unwanted "gifts" such as mice or birds will get into your house. Here are some of the compelling benefits that Flappie offers:
- Selective access control : The flap only opens when your cat comes without prey.
- Prey detection through camera and AI : Reliably detects whether your cat comes home alone or with prey.
- Remote control via the Flappie app : Allows you to control the cat flap from anywhere and gives you notifications when your cat uses the flap.
So why not take the chance and try the Flappie cat flap? It not only offers comfort for you and your cat, but also a clean and safe home. Visit the website https://flappie.ch now to find out more and order your cat flap. Experience for yourself how Flappie revolutionizes the everyday life of cat owners and helps them create a prey-free environment. With Flappie you can offer your cat freedom without unwanted surprises in your home. Get the intelligent solution now that makes your life and that of your cat easier and more pleasant.
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