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Install a cat flap.
Wood, uPVC, glass or wall — micro-chip, magnetic or basic cat flaps fitted neatly.
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Four moves that separate a smooth job from a nightmare.
Draughts
Cheap flaps have thin magnetic seals that flap in the wind. Microchip flaps with rubber gaskets seal better.
Other cats invading
A 4-way lock is no defence against a determined neighbour's cat. Microchip flaps are worth the extra £100.
Foam-core damage
Cutting a composite door's foam core lets water track in. Always order pre-fitted from the manufacturer.
Cracked glass
Cutting toughened glass shatters it instantly. Always order a pre-cut pet pane to swap in.
Costs & timeline
Know what it costs. Know when it ends.
Indicative UK ranges and what affects price.
Cost range
By job type
Inc. VAT · 2026
Source: NMT quotes
Source: NMT quotes
Basic 4-way cat flapManual lock, in/out/locked options
£15–£40
Microchip cat flap (SureFlap)Reads cat's existing microchip
£70–£180
Connected microchip flapApp, multiple pets
£180–£320
Small dog doorFor breeds under 15 kg
£50–£150
Medium-large dog doorInsulated, lockable
£120–£400
Install in timber/composite door1–2 hours
£80–£180
!
Quote spread is typically ± 18% — always get 3 quotes.
At a glance
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Cat flaps and dog doors let pets come and go without depending on the household. Modern microchip-locking flaps stop neighbouring cats invading. Expect to pay £30–£400 for the flap itself and £80–£250 for installation, depending on the door material — glass and composite are more expensive than timber.
What Does the Work Involve?
The fitter measures and marks the cut-out (usually 165mm × 175mm for a cat flap, 280mm × 380mm for a small dog door), drills pilot holes, cuts with a jigsaw (timber/uPVC) or diamond hole-saw (glass). The flap clamps either side of the door with bolts; sealant prevents draughts. Microchip flaps need batteries fitted and pet chips registered. Glass-cutting is the most specialist step — most installers will replace a whole glass pane with a pre-cut "pet-pane" rather than cut the existing glass.
Typical Costs
| Item | Low (£) | High (£) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic 4-way cat flap | 15 | 40 | Manual lock, in/out/locked options |
| Microchip cat flap (SureFlap) | 70 | 180 | Reads cat's existing microchip |
| Connected microchip flap | 180 | 320 | App, multiple pets |
| Small dog door | 50 | 150 | For breeds under 15 kg |
| Medium-large dog door | 120 | 400 | Insulated, lockable |
| Install in timber/composite door | 80 | 180 | 1–2 hours |
| Install in uPVC door | 100 | 200 | Slightly longer |
| Install in glass pane (replacement pane) | 180 | 500 | New double-glazed pet pane |
How Long Does It Take?
Cat flap in a timber door: 1–2 hours. uPVC door: 2–3 hours. Glass: a few days for the pet pane to be ordered, then 1 hour to swap. Composite doors with foam cores often need the manufacturer's pre-cut option (order door with hole) — retro-cutting risks the core integrity.
DIY or Professional?
Timber doors are a DIY job for a competent householder. uPVC is achievable with care. Glass needs a glazier — DIY glass-cutting is dangerous and the existing pane is usually toughened (impossible to cut) anyway. Composite doors should be ordered with the pet door pre-fitted by the manufacturer.
Choosing the Right Tradesperson
A handyman or carpenter can do timber and uPVC. For glass, use a glazier with a pet-pane catalogue. Ask whether the install includes sealing the cut-out (silicone bead) and weatherstripping — cheap installs leave draughts.
UK Regulations
No specific Building Regs apply to cat flaps. However, in a fire door (FD30) any penetration voids the certification — never fit a cat flap in a garage-to-house door or in HMO/flat fire doors. Listed buildings need consent before any external alteration including a cat flap.
Common Problems
- Draughts: Cheap flaps have thin magnetic seals that flap in the wind. Microchip flaps with rubber gaskets seal better.
- Other cats invading: A 4-way lock is no defence against a determined neighbour's cat. Microchip flaps are worth the extra £100.
- Foam-core damage: Cutting a composite door's foam core lets water track in. Always order pre-fitted from the manufacturer.
- Cracked glass: Cutting toughened glass shatters it instantly. Always order a pre-cut pet pane to swap in.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fit a cat flap in a uPVC door?
Yes — a jigsaw cuts through uPVC easily. The hollow chambers inside the door need foam-filling around the cut-out to maintain rigidity.
Can I fit a cat flap in a glass door?
Not in the existing glass — most are toughened or laminated and can't be cut. A glazier orders a new double-glazed unit with the pet-flap aperture pre-cut at the factory.
Are microchip cat flaps worth it?
Yes — they read your cat's existing microchip and lock other animals out. Reduces vet visits for fight wounds and stops neighbour cats stealing food.
Can I fit a cat flap in a composite door?
Best to order the door with the flap pre-installed at the factory. Cutting after install risks damaging the foam core and voids the manufacturer's warranty.
What size cat flap do I need?
Standard cat flap aperture is 142mm × 152mm — fits all UK domestic cats. Larger breeds (Maine Coon, Ragdoll) may need an XL flap at 180mm × 180mm.
How much does professional install cost?
Cat flap in a timber or composite door: £80–£180. uPVC: £100–£200. Glass (with replacement pane): £180–£500.
This guide was written with AI assistance and is intended for general information only. Prices are estimates based on UK averages and may vary by region. Always get at least three quotes and consult a qualified professional before starting any work.
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