How to Build an Automatic Cat Door

Some cat owners keep their cats solely outside, allowing them to freely roam and live in the great outdoors. Other cat owners prefer to keep their cats inside at all times. A cat door gives a feline the luxury of being allowed to come and go as it pleases, visiting the outdoor patio or backyard but also being able to return inside the house as it chooses. A cat door saves an owner from anticipating a cat's desire to be in or out, and provides a compromise for the cat that wants options.

Things You'll Need

  • Tape Measure
  • Drill
  • Saw
  • Screwdriver
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Instructions

  1. Measuring

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      A larger cat will require a larger cat door than a small, lean cat.

      Measure your cat. You need to know your cat's height, length, and weight to determine what size door you will need.

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      Measure the area accurately so you can ensure the proper-size door will fit.

      Measure the area where you wish to install the cat door. If you are adding a cat door to an existing wall, measure the area of the wall and the thickness of the wall where you intend to install the tunnel and door.

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      Measure your sliding glass door.

      If you are adding the cat door to a sliding glass door, measure the length and width of the glass door. Do not forget to measure the height of the track which the sliding glass door sits on as you will need that information to properly order and install a cat door.

    Ordering Supplies and Installing Your Cat Door

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      Time to make decisions and order supplies.

      Once you have determined the size of the cat door and the size of your cat, order a cat door of appropriate size for your needs. You will need to decide whether to order a door which attaches to a sliding glass door, or one that will fit into a hole in the wall at which point you will need to order a short tunnel as well, depending on the thickness of the wall. Another important decision is whether you want to select a door which only opens when a sensor on your cat's collar triggers the door to unlock. This type of door provides added security to your home and additional control over your cat coming and going at will.

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      Once the door is installed, your cat will enjoy his trips out of the house.

      Using the measurements you have, draw an opening on the wall which will be sufficient for your cat. Drill holes into the wall where you plan to place the door to mark the area. Use the saw to cut a hole in the wall and install the tunnel, which should fit snugly into the hole, so there is no wiggle room between the tunnel and the wall. Attach the cat door to the outdoor portion of the tunnel; this should create a "flap" at the end of the tunnel through which the cat can enter and exit. Make sure the flap swings freely and does not get stuck, or your cat will not be able to get in and out.

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      A sliding glass door cat-door installation can be quick and easy, providing your cat outdoor access quickly.

      If installing a cat door into a sliding glass door, open the sliding glass door and slide the door installation onto the track. Screw the patio door installation into the track and ensure the cat door will open and close with ease. Adjust the installation by tightening the screws if you are unable to slide the glass door shut to line up directly flush with the cat door installation.

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