Question 1

Will fitting a cat flap weaken my door?

Accepted Answer

No — when fitted by a professional, a cat flap won't compromise your door's strength. For UPvc doors, we cut precisely through the panel without affecting the frame or locking mechanism. For composite doors, we cut through each layer carefully so the structural integrity, weather resistance and security are maintained. Glass doors get a brand-new toughened panel manufactured with the hole pre-cut, so there's no risk of cracks.

Question 2

How long does a cat flap installation actually take?

Accepted Answer

UPvc and composite door installations typically take 30–60 minutes from start to finish. Glass door installations require a new toughened panel to be manufactured first (usually 5–10 working days), but the actual fitting on the day takes about 45 minutes. We always clean up after ourselves — you won't know we've been, apart from the new cat flap!

Question 3

Can I fit a cat flap myself or do I need a professional?

Accepted Answer

Simple wooden doors — yes, a confident DIYer can manage. But for UPvc, composite or glass doors, we strongly recommend professional installation. UPvc panels can crack if cut incorrectly, composite doors have multiple bonded layers that need specialist tools, and glass doors require a brand-new toughened panel (you can't cut existing double glazing). A botched DIY job can void your door warranty and cost more to fix than professional fitting.

Question 4

Will the installation make a mess?

Accepted Answer

Very little. For UPvc and composite doors we use dust sheets and a vacuum to catch debris as we cut. The whole process is surprisingly clean. Glass installations involve swapping one panel for another — there's no cutting on-site, so there's virtually no mess at all.

Question 5

I'm a tenant — can I get a cat flap fitted in a rental property?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but you'll need written permission from your landlord first. Many landlords are happy to allow it, especially for UPvc doors where the panel can be replaced when you move out. We can even supply a replacement blank panel for the future if needed. Just check with your landlord before booking.

Question 6

Microchip cat flap vs manual — which should I choose?

Accepted Answer

If you live in an area with neighbourhood cats, strays or foxes, a microchip cat flap is the best choice. It reads your cat's implanted microchip and only unlocks for registered pets — no collar or magnet needed. Manual 4-way locking cat flaps are cheaper and fine for rural areas with fewer visiting animals, but they can't stop intruders. For most customers, we recommend microchip.

Question 7

My cat is very large — will a standard cat flap be big enough?

Accepted Answer

Most standard cat flaps (like the SureFlap Microchip Cat Flap) have an opening of about 142mm x 120mm, which suits average-sized cats. For larger breeds like Maine Coons, British Shorthairs or Ragdolls, we recommend the SureFlap Microchip Pet Door with a larger 178mm x 170mm opening. We're happy to advise once we know your cat's size.

Question 8

Can my small dog use a cat flap?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Many small dogs happily use cat flaps or pet doors. For small dogs (up to about 7kg), a standard pet door like the SureFlap Microchip Pet Door works well. For medium dogs, larger pet doors from PetSafe or Pet-Tek are available. The microchip function works with your dog's implanted chip too — not just cats.

Question 9

What's the best cat flap for a glass door?

Accepted Answer

For glass doors, you need a cat flap designed for dual-glazed panels. The Pet-Tek glass-fitting cat flap is excellent value and purpose-built for glass. The SureFlap Microchip Cat Flap also works in glass with a mounting adapter. We supply a brand-new toughened glass panel with the hole pre-cut to the exact size, so the fit is perfect.

Question 10

Will a cat flap let in cold draughts?

Accepted Answer

Modern cat flaps are designed with draught-proof seals and magnetic closures. The SureFlap range and PetSafe microchip flaps both seal tightly when closed. We also ensure the installation is fully weather-sealed — no gaps, no draughts. In our experience, a properly fitted cat flap has minimal impact on your home's insulation.

Question 11

Will fitting a cat flap affect my home insurance?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, no. Standard cat flaps don't typically affect home insurance, but it's always worth checking your policy. Some insurers may ask that the flap is fitted by a professional and that it has a locking mechanism. Microchip cat flaps with electronic locking are the best option if your insurer has concerns. We can provide a receipt and proof of professional installation if needed.

Question 12

My cat won't use the new cat flap — what should I do?

Accepted Answer

This is very common and almost always temporary! Most cats need a few days to get used to a new flap. Try propping it open with tape for the first day so they can see through it, then gradually lower it. Use treats to lure them through. Avoid pushing them — let them explore at their own pace. Kittens and younger cats usually figure it out within hours. Older or nervous cats may take a week. If you're still struggling after two weeks, give us a call and we'll help troubleshoot.

Question 13

Do cat flaps need maintenance?

Accepted Answer

Very little. We recommend wiping the flap and sensors with a damp cloth every few months, checking the batteries on microchip models (they typically last 6–12 months), and making sure the seal is clean and free of debris. If the flap starts sticking or the microchip reader plays up, it's usually just a battery change or a quick clean.

Question 14

Can you move a cat flap to a different door?

Accepted Answer

Yes — we regularly move cat flaps from one door to another (for example, after a kitchen renovation). If you're moving from a UPvc door to a glass door, a new toughened panel will be needed. We can also replace the old door panel so there's no hole left behind. Just get in touch with the details and we'll quote for both jobs.

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