Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in your home is a great step for any pet owner. There are a variety of options for you, whether your cat is older and requires additional security or if 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 accomplish. The key is preparation, planning and accuracy.
Choose the Right Door or Window
There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, some with locks that can be used to prevent your pet from going out or in and others with high tech features like microchip door entry systems. It's important to think about how it is easy to teach your cat how to use the flap before you purchase and install one.
Based on the style of your home, it's usually best to situate the cat flap in the form of a door or window that opens out into an area of protection in the garden so that your cat is secure when going into and out of the house. If possible it will also provide them a route back in case they are chased by a cat or by humans intent to harm them.
It is possible to install a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't the same as fitting one into a wood door. This is because uPVC and composite doors are available in various thicknesses, which can affect how holes are cut and the materials you're fixing them to.
If you're installing the flap in the glass of a door it is recommended that you seek out a glazier that is skilled in this type of work to avoid costly mistakes. If you're installing the flap on the door made of wood, start by the cat with it prior to fitting it to allow them to get used to its shape and size, and explore it from every angle.
Find out the size of your cat's belly
To install an appropriate cat flap that is suitable for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat's size. This will enable you to ensure that your cat flap is placed at the right height for the window or door, and also that it's large enough for him to enter and leave easily.
To do this, put your pet on their back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back, face or limbs. The padding provides your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics felines are famous for.
Alternately, you could use your pet's weight to gauge how big an opening you require. If your cat is at or over 5kg for instance, a 14 x 12cm flap for your cat is recommended.
Measure Your Door or Window
As the name suggests, this type of cat flap is designed to be fixed into the door, and offers a way for your pet to enter or leave as it pleases. These flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and are located in the middle of the door. They have a two-way swinging opening that is opened by gently pressing on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps that provide extra security, so your cat isn't able to walk through from the outside.
Cat flaps are also frequently used on windows. They can be easily installed, but they have to be installed at a high level as cats and dogs find it difficult to access them. If the window is not high enough to use a cat's flap, then you can use ramps, steps, or stairs that are specially designed to help the animal reach it.
double glazing cat flap can be incorporated into a brick wall, however it is not recommended unless you are familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the wall's structure. It is essential to ensure that there are no cables and pipes inside the wall before you begin. You should always consult a professional if you need to create a hole for pipes and cables. It is also recommended to wear safety goggles and a dust-proof mask to avoid inhaling any of the sawdust created by cutting holes in your home's walls.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are many different cat flaps on the market and they all have different features. Some flaps are equipped with security features like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry. They also keep your pet from letting friends or other animals into the house. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to block draughts and moisture.
There are various sizes that are available based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are available in rectangular shapes, whereas others are circular or square. The type of cat flap you select will depend on the size of the opening and the kind of door or window you're fixing it to.
Also think about the mechanism to open your cat flap will come with. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is a good option and is usually the least expensive. It won't stop other cats and pets from entering however, and you could let in draughts.
It's time to install your cat flap. Begin by marking the belly height on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is straight against the door and not too low. Use your spirit level to draw a template of the flap for cats. Then, using your jigsaw, cut out the outline of the door. When you're satisfied with the results sand down the edges and then drill through the pencil lines to create holes for the screws.
Make the Tools
It's essential to have the right tools when performing any DIY project. The most important things you'll require are the cat flap itself as well as a tape measure, an excellent pencil as well as a spirit level, a file, drill and the jigsaw (depending on your window or door type).
Check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal broken. In this case you'll likely require an additional pane of toughened glass instead.
You'll require a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions provided by the manufacture. Use a template to mark out the size hole you require.
After you have cut the hole, you'll need to sand the edges of the opening. This will prevent any rust or water damage from happening in the future. Finally, you should apply any necessary sealant to the rear of the cat flap as well as to the holes in the window or door to block rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry, you can install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
The installation of a flap will allow your cat to move around whenever it pleases. Most people can install the flap by themselves. However should you wish to install it on the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you may need an expert.
Begin by studying the instructions that come with your cat flap to locate the drawing template. This will give you an idea of the location where holes need to be drilled to install the flap to be placed in the door. Note the areas you'll need to drill in with a pencil.
After you have mapped out the door's opening and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the shape of the cat flap. It's a relatively easy task however you'll need be comfortable using a saw. If you're worried about doing this yourself, there are many companies that can do this for you at a low cost.
Next, you will need to attach the inside of the cat flap to the door's hole. It is possible to seal the flap before you do this in order to keep it waterproof and weatherproof. You can then put the outer section of the cat flap on top of the fixing bolts and tighten them all. It is recommended that you test the cat flap with your cat to ensure that it works correctly and that they can move easily through it.