Build your own cat flap: A step-by-step guide

Are you tired of constantly opening and closing the door for your four-legged friend?
The longing for freedom is great – both for cats and their owners.

A homemade cat flap is the solution that gives your pet independence and makes your life easier.
In this article, we'll show you how to build a cat flap yourself using simple means, including helpful tips and smart upgrades.

Why build a cat flap yourself and how big it needs to be

A homemade cat flap not only offers freedom for your cat , but also comfort for you . By making the flap yourself, you can adapt it perfectly to the needs of your pet and the conditions in your home. Not only do you save money, but you also have full control over materials and design . The right size of the cat flap is crucial to ensure that your cat feels comfortable and can go in and out without any problems.

To determine the right size for the cat flap, a few measurements are necessary. Here is a quick guide:

• Measure your cat's height and width : The flap should be at least as wide as your cat's widest part (usually the shoulders) and as high as their shoulder height.
• Consider the weight : The weight can give you an indication if your cat doesn't want to stay still. A flap measuring 14cm x 12cm is usually sufficient for cats up to 5kg, for heavier cats you should choose larger dimensions. With these dimensions you can ensure that your cat can fit comfortably and safely through the flap without getting hurt or stuck.

Build your own cat flap: The instructions

Building a cat flap is not as difficult as it may seem at first. First, you should choose the location where the flap is to be installed. Ideally, you should choose a door that leads directly outside and is in a quiet place that is easily accessible for the cat.

Once the location has been decided, it's time to choose the materials . You need robust materials that can withstand both the weather and your cat's claws. Plastic or weatherproof wood, for example, are suitable for this. Transparent materials are also recommended so that your cat can see what's happening on the other side.

To build the cat flap you will need some tools :

• A tape measure for measuring the flap and the door
• A saw to cut the opening in the door
• sandpaper to smooth sharp edges
• Screws or nails to attach the flap
• Possibly a seal to avoid drafts

Step by step, proceed as follows:

• Mark the size of the flap on the door.
• Carefully saw out the mark and sand the edges smooth.
• Attach the flap to the door with screws or nails.
• Check that the flap moves smoothly and securely.
• If necessary, install a seal to prevent drafts.

It is important that the flap moves smoothly so that your cat can use it without any problems. Also make sure that there are no sharp edges that could injure your pet. With the right preparation and care, your DIY cat flap will be a complete success.

Additional tips for your DIY cat flap

There are some additional tips that can help you with your homemade cat flap:

• Consider using magnets to keep the flap closed in windy conditions, but still ensure your cat can easily open it.
• Think about maintenance : choose materials that are easy to clean and will not rust outdoors.
• Consider your cat's safety by choosing, for example, a flap that can be closed at night to keep out unwanted guests.

Smart Cat Flap Upgrades with Flappie

Have you successfully built your own cat flap and are now looking for intelligent upgrades ? Flappie offers an innovative solution that revolutionizes the lives of cat owners. Flappie's intelligent cat flap is equipped with a camera and artificial intelligence that enables it to detect prey animals and prevent your cat from bringing them into the house. This means for you:

• Less clutter : No more unwanted surprises on your doorstep.
• More security : Your cat can come in and out, but unwanted guests stay outside.
• Full control : With the Flappie app you can control the cat flap from anywhere and receive notifications, videos and statistics directly on your smartphone.

Switching to a Flappie smart cat flap is easy and has many benefits. You can use the Flappie app to control the flap and receive push notifications when your cat tries to come into the house with prey. Additionally, you have the option to receive videos and photos of your cat, which can be not only convenient but also entertaining. Visit flappie.ch to learn more about this smart solution and how you can keep your home prey-free and safe . Take the step and upgrade your cat flap with Flappie!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you install a cat flap yourself?

Yes, you can build a cat flap yourself. This article provides step-by-step instructions on how to make a cat flap yourself using simple means and tools such as a tape measure, saw, sandpaper, screws or nails and possibly a seal.

How big does the cat flap have to be?

The size of the cat flap is important so that your cat feels comfortable and can go in and out without any problems. You should measure the height and width of your cat, whereby the flap should be at least as wide as the widest part of the cat (usually the shoulders) and as high as its shoulder height. For cats up to 5kg, a flap measuring 14cm x 12cm is sufficient, for heavier cats, larger dimensions should be chosen.

How useful is a cat flap?

A homemade cat flap offers freedom for your cat and comfort for you. It allows your cat to go in and out independently and saves you from having to constantly open and close the door. You can also adapt the flap to your cat's needs and the conditions in your home, have full control over materials and design and save money.