5 steps to a successful cat door installation

3rd June 2015

Installing a cat door? Take a look at our five top tips to help you complete the installation successfully.

1. Programme your cat door before installation

If you have a SureFlap Microchip Cat Door, programme your cat’s microchip or RFID collar tag into the cat door prior to installation. This is to ensure that you don’t accidentally programme the neighbour’s cat in after it has been installed!

2. Consider where to install the cat door

Cat doors can be installed in doors, windows and walls, giving plenty of flexibility when it comes to the installation location. It’s best to situate the cat door in a place that opens out onto a sheltered area of your garden. Cats like to feel secure when they come into and go out of the house. If the structure of your house prevents this, make the exterior of the cat door more secure by positioning plant pots or benches close by for your cat to hide behind.

3. Cat door height

Measure your cat’s belly to the floor. This is the ideal height to install the cat door. If you need to install the cat door higher, consider placing steps either side to help your cat to get in and out more easily.

4. Choose a warm day

Installing a cat door when the weather is fine will not only make the experience more pleasant for you, it will also make it easier for your cat to learn to use their new cat door if they need time to adjust. Once the cat door is installed you may need to prop it open for a while to help your cat to get used to using it. Summer is the ideal time to do this so that your house doesn’t get cold in the process. Your cat also might be more inclined to use their new cat door if it’s sunny outside. If your cat doesn’t take to their new cat door straight away, our cat door training tips may help.

5. Ask the professionals