How to install a cat door on an existing interior door.

September 9, 2024 

This article will walk you through the process of installing a cat door on an existing interior door.

This article will describe the process of installing a cat door in conjunction with an existing interior door.
Once you complete the installation, your cat or small dog will have the freedom to enter any room of your choice. It enables your pet to enter without requiring you to open the door, thereby granting her the freedom she deserves. Use this great idea to benefit yourself and your pet. Discuss the steps needed to start this project.

First step:

There is a wide variety of options available to you when selecting the door that you want to have installed. It occurred to me that Amazon offers a fantastic selection of cat doors at affordable prices. You can look around and see all of your options, prices, and detailed instructions for completing the task.

Second Step:

The majority of hinges have three or four screws attached. We previously mentioned removing the door from its jambs as the next step. It appeared to be much simpler to remove the centre bolt that was holding the two hinge screws apart than it was to simply remove all of the screws and leave the hinge attached. Your choice will save you time and be the most suitable for you.

Step Three:

Immediately after removing your door, avoid hitting it or leaving dents or marks. Position the door on a safe, level table; I used a Black & Decker worktable for this purpose. Once the door is in a flat position on the table, mark its centre and prepare to take measurements. Next, position your template in the centre of the door, ensuring it aligns with the bottom of the door located inside your home.

Step Four:

If you have a template, apply paint tape to its outside. This will prevent your jigsaw from leaving a scratch on your door's exterior. This method not only saves time and ensures a neat process, but it also eliminates the need to touch up the door with the same paint colour as your interior door. This is a significant benefit.

Step Five:

You will cut around the template with a jigsaw blade that is of high quality and sharpness. If you want your cut to have a pleasing finish, you should go very slowly for it. Please keep in mind that there will be a piece of wood that serves as a support at the bottom of the door. As soon as you have cut that piece, the remaining portion of the door ought to be hollow and relatively simple to cut.

Step Six:

After cutting the door opening, sand it lightly to smooth it out before assembling the cat door. To position the opening of the cat door, begin at the back and then gently flip it over. Thereafter, manually install the screws using the provided hardware. Do not make use of a drill.

Step Seven:

Test the door to confirm its correct opening and secure fastening. If everything proceeds as planned, you will reach the final stage. Place the door back on the door jambs after mounting it.

Step Eight:

I hope this was useful to you. If you need any clarification, I would appreciate it if you could send me a message. You can also provide feedback by leaving a comment.

 Conclusion

Installing a cat door on an existing door offers numerous advantages for both cats and their owners. Cats become more independent, have access to exercise and fresh air, and can relieve themselves when necessary, all of which help them feel less stressed and anxious. Cat doors are convenient for owners, shield doors from harm, and help keep the house cleaner. The overall benefits of a cat door make it a worthwhile addition to many homes, improving the well-being of both cats and their human companions, even though it's crucial to take into account aspects like security, weatherproofing, and initial training.

Regards,

Joseph F. Botelho

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