How to install rental-friendly cat flap?

[FelineJaye]

Hi Bunnings Workshop!

I'm a renter and I want to install a cat flap in the sliding door that leads to my balcony.

I already know how to cat-proof the balcony but I'm struggling to figure out how to give her (the cat) a door out there. I want to put her litter box outside, so I don't want to just open the door for her every time she wants in or out.

I'm not able to screw anything in the walls or the door and I can't change the door handle or anything like that. But I can use Command hooks to help secure things in place. The doorway is about 205cm tall (approx. I think it looks pretty average) and the runner for the main glass door is about 3.5cm deep.

Ideally, I'm hoping for something that can just sit at the side of the door but still allow the door to be opened and closed without the cat-flap contraption falling out or being dismantled. Bonus points for figuring out how to also get the portable A/C vent into the contraption.

I've included pictures of the door way and the cat in question. Thank you all for any help!
The doorCloser shot of doorWhere the door closesThe edge of the screen doorThe edge of both main and screen doorThe catThe cat again

[EricL · Accepted solution]

Hello @FelineJaye 

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about installing a cat flap in your sliding door.

I propose using Hakuna Pets Medium Black Mesh Patio Pet Door. It simply sits in the channel of your sliding door and does not need to be screwed into place, and the sliding door simply meets up with it. Would it be possible for you to post a photo of your aircon exit fitting? This will help with generating ideas on how to install it along with the pet door.  

Here is a handy guide:  Hakuna Pets Mesh Patio Pet Door Installation Guide

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[FelineJaye]

Thanks Eric! The Hakuna sliding mesh door was exactly what I needed!

Here are some photos of the A/C exit fitting - it's a portable unit and I think the exit fitting was intended for a window as it's too short for my door. Is there a straightforward way to extend its height? It can probably just sit next to the Hakuna door, if there was.A/C exit compared to doorA/C exit, full heightA/C exit, side view

[EricL]

Hello @FelineJaye 

My first suggestion is looking at who manufactured your portable aircon. See if they have a contact number on the silver product sticker at the back of the unit. See if they can provide a door exhaust adapter as a spare part. My second suggestion is to use Tunnelcore 1200 x 900 x 5mm White Double Wall PP Flute Board. Cut it into strips the same size as your window adapter and tape them together, you are basically creating an extension. Just remember that it must be the same size as the window adapter so that when the door closes it will hold it in place.

Let me call on our experience @AlanM52 and @David 

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[AlanM52]

Hi @FelineJaye,

@EricL has provided the the info you need so you are all good.

While reading your post...

Bailey and Zia are asking if your cat wants to come over and play - with boxes.

Cheers