Fitting a Cat Flap

Getting a cat flap fitted inside your home can be a major step for any pet owner. There are a variety of options for you, whether your cat is older and requires additional security or you have kittens that require to be checked.
Installing a cat flap could be intimidating for people who aren't professionals, however, with the proper instructions, it's not difficult to complete. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and precision.
Choose the Right Door or Windows
There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to stop your pet from leaving or in, while others have high tech features like microchip door entry system. It is important to consider how easy it will be to teach your cat to use the flap before you purchase and install one.
It is best to place the cat flap, depending on the design of your home, in an opening that leads into an area of the garden that is protected. This will help your cat feel secure when entering or leaving your home. This will also enable them to get back inside if they are chased by another animal or human beings who wish to hurt them.
You can put the cat flap on a uPVC door or glass window, but it's not as simple as fitting one into wooden doors. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors are available in a variety of thicknesses, and this can impact the way holes are cut and what you're fixing into.
To avoid costly errors to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended that you consult an expert glazier prior to installing the flap on a door with a glass front. If you're installing the flap into an existing wooden door you must introduce your cat to it first to ensure that it becomes familiar with its size and shape.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
In order to put in a cat flap that's a good fit for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat's height. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is the right height on your window or door and that it's big enough to allow them to enter and out easily.
To do this, place your pet on their back and run your fingers gently across their belly. Look for a fat pad that is squishy around the lower back or face, or around the legs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline circus skills.
You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you need. If your cat weighs more than 5Kg, for example the suggested cat flap opening size is 14 x 12cm.
Take a measurement of your window or door
Like the name suggests, this type of cat flap is designed to be affixed to the door, and offers a way for your pet to go in or out as it pleases. cat flap cover for winter are made of aluminum or plastic and are located in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that can be opened by gently pressing on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps, which provide extra security, so your cat isn't able to enter the door from the outside.
Cat flaps are also frequently employed in windows. They are able to be easily installed, however they have to be set at a high level as cats and dogs find it difficult to reach them. If the window is too high to use a cat flap, steps, ramps or purpose built stairs can be utilized to help the animal access it.
It is possible to put the cat flap onto the brick wall, however it is not recommended for those who aren't familiar with masonry. This could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it is important to make sure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. If they are, an opening must be made for them. This is something you should always seek expert advice on. It's also advisable to wear safety goggles and a dust protection mask to avoid breathing in any sawdust that is created by cutting through your home's walls.
Choose the right cat flap
There are many cat flaps on the market, and they have different features. Some cat flaps have security features such as magnetic locks or microchips that prevent unauthorized entry. They also keep your pet from allowing friends or other animals into the home. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals that keep out the elements of moisture and draughts.
There's also a range of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are circular or square. Choosing the right type of cat flap will be determined by the space available and the kind of door or window you intend to install it on.
Also, think about the mechanism to open your cat flap is likely to have. The most affordable option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It won't prevent other animals and cats from entering however, and you could be letting in drafts.
Once you've selected the right cat flap and measured the window or door, it's time to fit it. Start by marking the belly's height on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line isn't too low and is in line with the door. Use your spirit level to draw a sketch of the flap for cats. Then, you can use your Jigsaw to cut the door's outline. When you're satisfied with the results sand down the edges and drill through the pencil lines to create holes for the screws.
Prepare the Tools
As with any DIY jobs, it's always best to have the right tools to complete the task. You'll require the cat flap, a pencil and tape measure along with a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the kind of door or window.
If you're installing a composite door, it is recommended to consult with the manufacturer prior to making any alterations as this may affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this scenario it's likely that you'll need to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass.
You'll need an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. Make use of a template to mark the size hole you need.
After you've made the hole, you'll need to smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will prevent any rust or water damage from occurring in the future. You should also cover the holes in your window or door and the back of the flap to keep out rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry, you're ready to install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to move around at will, installing a flap can help. This is a straightforward process that most people can accomplish themselves, although you will likely require the help of an expert if you're installing the flap on an unglazed door or any other kind of uPVC door.
Begin by reading the instructions provided with your cat flap to find the template drawing. This will provide you with an idea of where the holes for the flap have to be drilled in the door. Note the areas you'll have to drill with the pencil.
After you have marked the area on your door, you can use the jigsaw and cut out the the cat flap. This is a relatively simple job however, you'll need to be comfortable using a saw. If you are worried about doing it yourself, there are many companies that can complete this for you at a very low cost.
The next step is to screw the inner part of the cat flap to the hole in your door. It is possible to apply sealant prior to doing this to ensure it stays watertight and weather resistant. The outside of your cat flap could be placed on the bolts' tops and then tightened together. You must test the cat flap on your cat to ensure that it functions properly and allows them to enter and exit easily.