Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in to your home can be a major step for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and needs extra security or you have a new kitten that need to be vetted, there are plenty of options out there for you.
It can be a bit daunting for people who aren't experts in installing the cat flap, but with proper instructions, it's simple. Planning, preparation and precision are the most important factors.
Select the Right Door or Windows
There's a wide selection of cat flaps that are available including some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from leaving or coming in) and others with high-tech features like microchip door entry systems. It's important to think about how easy it will be to train your cat to use the flap before you purchase and install one.
Depending on cat flap cost near me of your home, it's generally best to put the cat flap near an opening or window that opens onto an area that is protected from the garden so that your cat can feel safe when entering and leaving the home. If you can, this will also give them a way back should they be pursued by a different cat or by humans who are intent to harm them.
You can install the cat flap on the case of a uPVC door or a glass window, but it's not as simple as fitting one into the door made of wood. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in various thicknesses. This can affect the way holes are cut, and the type of door you can fix into.
To avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended that you consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If you are fitting the flap to an existing wooden door, you should introduce your cat to it at first to make sure it is familiar with its size and shape.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
You'll need the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you install is a good fit. This will help you ensure that the flap is the correct height on your door or window, and that it's large enough to allow them to enter and exit easily.
To do this, place your pet on their back and run your fingers gently across their belly. Look for any squishy fat pads that might be visible around their lower back, face or limbs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline Acrobatics.
You can also consider your pet's weight as a way to determine the size of an opening you'll need. If your cat weighs up to 5kg, for instance, the suggested cat flap size is 14x12cm.
Take a measurement of your door or window
As the name suggests the cat flap is made to be attached to the door, and offers an opportunity for your pet to leave or enter whenever it wants. They are usually made from aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door. They come with a two-way swinging door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps that offer added security so your cat isn't able to walk through from the outside.
A window is a common location for a cat's flap, and they're easy enough to fit, although they usually need to be located high enough as it's difficult for cats and dogs to access them. If the window is too high for a cat flap, then ramps, steps, or specially built stairs can be utilized to aid the animal in accessing it.
It is possible to put a cat flap into the brick wall, however it is not recommended for those who aren't experienced in the masonry industry. This could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's important to make sure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. You should always consult an expert if you have to cut a hole in the wall for pipes and cables. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask will ensure that you don't breathe in the dust that is generated when you cut into your walls.
Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.
There are many cat flaps available on the market, and they come with various features. Some come with security options such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition to block entry by unauthorized persons and prevent your pet from allowing guests or other animals to enter the house. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to block out moisture and draughts.
There are also different sizes available depending on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are square or circular. Choosing the right type of cat flap will be dictated by the space available and the type of window or door you intend to install it on.
Lastly consider the mechanism to open your cat flap will have. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. It won't prevent other animals and cats from entering, and you could also let in draughts.
After you've chosen the appropriate cat flap and measured your window or door, it's time to fit it. Make a mark on the belly of the door using a ruler. Use a spirit-level to make sure the line is not too low and is in line with the door. Utilize your spirit level to draw a sketch of the flap for cats. Then, using a jigsaw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you are satisfied with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil lines to create holes for screws.
Make the Tools
It's important to have the right tools for undertaking any DIY project. The most essential things you'll need are the cat flap, a tape measure and a decent pencil as well as a spirit level, drill, file, and an Jigsaw (depending on the window or door type).
If you're installing in a composite door, it is recommended to consult with the manufacturer before making any changes because this could invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this scenario it's likely you'll have to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.
For wooden or uPVC doors will require cutting out the shape of your cat flap using a jigsaw and follow the instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. Make cat flap step of a template to mark the size hole you need.
After you've cut the required hole, you must sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will prevent the possibility of water damage and rust. In the end, you must apply any sealant you require to the back of the cat flap, and to the holes in the door or window to keep out the elements of wind and rain. When the sealant has dried and dry, you can install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to come and go whenever it wants, installing flaps can aid. The majority of people can install the flap themselves. However should you wish to install it on glass or uPVC type door, you might need a professional.
Look at the instructions included with your cat flap. You will find an illustration of the template. This will provide you with an idea of where the holes for the flap will need to be drilled in the door. Mark the areas you'll need to drill into with pencil.
After you have marked the door on your door, use the jigsaw to cut the design for the cat flap. It is a relatively simple job, but you'll need to be comfortable using a Jigsaw. If you are worried about doing this yourself, there are a lot of companies that can do this for you at a low cost.
Then, you can screw the inside part to the hole in your door. It might be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this, in order to keep it waterproof and weatherproof. Then, you can put the outer part of the cat flap on top of the fixing bolts and then tighten them all. You should test the flap on your cat to confirm that it's working properly and that it allows them to enter and exit easily.