Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in your home is an excellent option for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and requires additional security, or you have a new kitten that require a thorough screening, there are a lot of options there for you.
Installing a cat flap can be a daunting task for novices, but with the right instructions, it's not hard to do. The most important thing is planning, preparation and precision.
Choose the Right Door, or Window
There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, including some with locks that can be used to prevent your pet from going out or in and others with advanced features like microchips for door entry system. It is important to consider how it is easy to train your cat to use the flap, before you purchase and install one.
Depending on the style of your house, it's generally best to put the cat flap inside a window or door that opens to an area that is protected from the garden so that your cat will feel secure entering and leaving the home. This will also allow them to go back inside in the event of being chased by other animals or human beings who wish to hurt them.
You can install the cat flap on the case of a uPVC door or a glass window however it's not as simple as putting one in wooden doors. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in different thicknesses. This can impact the way holes are cut, and the type of door you can fix to.
If you're installing the flap on a glass door, it's recommended that you consult a glazier who specialises in this type of work to avoid any costly mistakes. If you're installing the flap to an old wooden door, begin by introduction of your cat to it before you fit it to allow them to become familiar with its shape and size and explore it from every angle.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
You'll need your cat's measurements to make sure that the cat flap you install is the perfect fit. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is at the right height on your window or door and that it's big enough for them to enter and exit easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back or face, or around the limbs. The extra padding offers your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the acrobatics cats are famous for.
Alternatively, you can also use your pet's weight to determine the size of an opening you require. If your cat weighs more than 5Kg, for example, the suggested cat flap opening size is 14x12cm.
Take a measurement of your door or window
This kind of cat flap, as the name suggests, is designed to be installed into the door. It allows your pet to enter and exit at its convenience. They are usually made from aluminum or plastic and sit in the centre of the door. They have the possibility of a swinging door that opens by pressing lightly on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps that provide additional security to ensure that your cat can't simply enter the door from the outside.
A window is another common location for a cat flap and these are easy enough to put in, but they are usually placed high up as it's difficult for dogs and cats to access them. If the window is too high for a cat flap, then ramps, steps, or specially built stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it.
It is possible to insert the cat flap onto the brick wall, however it is not recommended for those who are not experienced in masonry. 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. It is recommended to consult an expert when you need to cut a hole in the wall for cables and pipes. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask can help you avoid inhaling the sawdust that is created when cutting into your walls.
Choose the right cat flap
There are numerous cat flaps on the market and they all have different features. Some flaps are equipped with security features, such as magnetic locks or microchips that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also keep your pet from allowing friends or other animals into the house. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to keep out draughts and moisture.
There are different sizes to choose from based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular while others are square or circular. The kind of cat flap you choose will depend on the size of the opening and the kind of door or window you're fitting it to.
Last but not least, consider the type of opening mechanism your cat flap will use. A simple aluminum or plastic swing-out door is a good alternative and is usually the cheapest. It won't prevent other pets and cats from entering the room, and you could be letting in draughts.
After you've chosen the correct cat flap and measured your window or door and window, it's now time to put it in place it. Begin by marking check this site out on the door with your 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 template for the flap for cats. Then, you can use your Jigsaw to cut the outline of the door. Once you're happy with the result, sand the edges and drill through the pencil lines to create holes for the screws.
Make the Tools
Like any DIY jobs, it's always advisable to make sure you have the right tools for the job. The main things you'll need are the cat flap along with a tape measure, a decent pencil and a spirit level a file, drill and an jigsaw (depending on the windows or doors).
Consult the manufacturer before making any changes to a door made of composite. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal damaged. In this scenario it's likely you'll have to replace the glass with a brand new piece of toughened glass.
For wooden or uPVC doors you'll need to cut out the shape of your cat flap with the Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines provided by the manufacturer. If possible, you can use a template to help you mark out the size of the hole you'll need to cut.
After you have cut the hole, you'll have to sand off the edges of the opening. This will stop the possibility of water damage and rust. In the end, you must apply any necessary sealant to the rear of the cat flap and to the holes in the window or door to keep out the elements of wind and rain. After the sealant has dried then you can put up your new cat-flap!
Install the Flap
Fitting a flap will allow your cat to go and come whenever it wants. It's a simple procedure that most people can accomplish by themselves, though you will likely require the help of an expert for installing the flap on a glass door or other type of uPVC door.
Begin by studying the instructions included with the flap to locate the template drawing. This will provide you with an idea of where holes for the flap have to be drilled into the door. Mark the areas you will need to drill into with pencil.
After you have mapped out the door's area then use a jigsaw cut out the design of the cat flap. It's a relatively easy job however, you'll need to be comfortable using a jigsaw. If you are worried about doing it yourself, there are many businesses that can handle this for you at a very low cost.
Then, attach the outer part to the hole of your door. You may have to apply sealant before doing this to ensure it is weather and water resistant. You can then place the outer section of the flap on the top of the fixing bolts and tighten the bolts all together. You must test the cat flap on your cat to make sure that it is working correctly and allows them to enter and exit easily.