Fitting a Cat Flap

Getting a cat flap fitted in to your home can be a big step 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 may be intimidating for people who aren't professionals, but with the right instructions, it's not difficult to accomplish. Preparation, planning and precision are the most important factors.
Choose the Right Door or Window
There are a variety of cat flaps that are available, some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet going out or coming in) and others with advanced features like microchip door entry systems. It is important to think about how it is easy to teach your cat to use the flap before you purchase and install one.
It is recommended to put the cat flap, depending on the design of your house, in a window that opens into a garden that is sheltered. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering and leaving your home. This will also allow them to go back inside if they're chased by another animal or humans who want to hurt them.
It's possible to put the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it's not as easy as putting one into a wood door. This is because uPVC and composite doors come in various thicknesses, which affect the way holes are cut and what you're fixing to.
If you're installing the flap in the glass of a door it is recommended to consult a glazier who specialises in this type of work to avoid any costly errors. If you're fitting the flap in a wooden door, start by introducing your cat to it prior to fitting it to allow them to become familiar with its shape and size, and explore it from all angles.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
It is important to know the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap you put in is the perfect fit. This will enable you to make sure that the flap is installed at the correct height on the door or window, and also that it's large enough to allow him to enter and out easily.
To do this, place your pet on their back and run your fingers gently across their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back or face, or around the legs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline acrobatics.
Alternatively, you can also make use of your pet's weight to determine the size of the opening you'll need. If your cat weighs up to 5kg, for instance the suggested flap size is 14 x 12cm.
Make sure you measure your window or door
Like the name suggests, this type of cat flap is designed to be fixed into a door and provides an opportunity for your pet to go in or out whenever it wants. The flaps are made of plastic or aluminum and are located in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that is opened by gently pushing on either side. They are available with locking options that provide additional security so your cat cannot simply walk through the door from outside.
A window is a common place to put a cat 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 reach them otherwise. If the window is too high to use a cat flap, ramps, steps or specially built stairs can be used to help the animal access it.
A cat flap could be installed into a brick wall but it is not recommended unless you are experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the wall's structure. It is essential to ensure that there aren't any cables or pipes inside the wall before you begin. If they are, there must be a hole created for them and this is something that you should always seek expert advice on. It is also recommended to wear protective goggles and a dust-proof mask to avoid inhaling any of the sawdust created by cutting holes in your home's walls.
Choose the right cat flap
There are many cat flaps available on the market, and they come with different features. Some come with security options such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry and also prevent your pet from allowing friends or other animals into the house. Some have weatherproof seals and insulation to keep out draughts and moisture.
There's also a range of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, while others are square or circular. Selecting the best cat flap will be dictated by the space you have available as well as the type of window or door you intend to install it on.
The last thing to do is take into consideration the kind of opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. A simple aluminium or plastic swing-out door is an choice and is typically the least expensive. However, it will not prevent other cats or pets from entering your home and you could be letting draughts in as well.
Once you've selected the appropriate cat flap and measured your window or door then it's time to install it. Begin by marking the belly height on the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line isn't too low and is in line with the door. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, use a jigsaw to cut out the door's outline. When you are satisfied with the result finish sanding the edges and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for screws.
Prepare the Tools
As with any DIY tasks, it's best to have the proper tools to complete the task. The most essential things you'll need are the cat flap itself as well as a tape measure, an excellent pencil as well as a spirit level, drill, file and an jigsaw (depending on your window or door type).
If you're installing in a composite door, check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes, as this may invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this scenario it's likely you'll need to replace the glass with a brand new piece of toughened glass.
For wooden or uPVC doors you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap with the Jigsaw. Follow the directions provided by the manufacturer. If you can, use an outline to help determine the size of the hole you have to cut.
After you've made the hole, you should then sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This should prevent any water damage or rust from happening in the future. Also, you should apply any sealant you require to the rear of the cat flap and to the holes in the window or door to keep out rain and wind. When the sealant has dried then you're now ready to put in your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
Fitting a flap will allow your cat to go and come whenever it pleases. upvc door panel cat flap can put in the flap themselves. However when you plan to install it in the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you may need a professional.
Check out the directions included with your cat flap. There is an illustration of the template. This will provide you with an idea of where the holes for the flap will need to be drilled into the door. Note the areas you'll need to drill into with a pencil.
After you have mapped out the door's area then use a jigsaw cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a relatively simple task, but you'll need to be comfortable using a Jigsaw. Numerous companies will perform this work for you at a reasonable cost if you are hesitant to take on the task yourself.
The next step is to attach the inside of the flap onto the hole in your door. It might be necessary to seal the flap before you do this in order to keep it waterproof and weatherproof. The outside of your cat flap may be placed on the bolts' tops and then tightened together. It is recommended that you test the flap using your cat to make sure that it functions properly and that they can get in and out of it.