Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in to your home can be a big step for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and needs extra security or you have kittens that need to be vetted there are plenty of options there for you.
Installing a cat flap may be intimidating for people who aren't professionals, however, with the proper instructions, it's not difficult to accomplish. Preparation, planning and precision are the most important factors.
Select the Right Door or Window
There are many different types of cat flaps, some with locks that can be used to prevent your pet from leaving or in, while others have high tech features like microchip door entry systems. It is important to consider 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 style of your house, in a window that opens into an area of the garden that is protected. This will help your cat feel secure when entering or leaving your home. If possible this will also allow them a route back in should they be pursued by a different cat or by a human intent to hurt them.
You can put a cat flap in a uPVC door or a glass window however, it's not as simple as fitting one into the door made of wood. It's because uPVC or composite doors come in different thicknesses. This could affect the way holes are cut, and the material you put into.
If you're installing the flap in glass doors, it's recommended that you seek out a glazier that is skilled in this type of work to avoid any costly errors. If you're fitting the flap to an old wooden door, begin by introducing your cat to it prior to fitting it to allow them to get used to its shape and size and explore it from all angles.
Find out the size of your cat's belly
In order to put in the right cat flap that's suitable for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's height. This will ensure that the flap is the correct height on your window or door and that it's big enough to allow them to enter and exit with ease.
To do this, put your pet on their back and run your fingers gently along their belly. Look for any squishy fat pads that may be visible around their lower back, face and limbs. The extra padding shields 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 gauge how big an opening you need. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg in weight, for example an opening of 14 x 12cm flap for your cat is recommended.
Make sure you measure your door or window
This kind of cat flap, as its name suggests is designed to be installed into the door. It lets your pet be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. They are typically made of aluminum or plastic and sit in the centre of the door with the possibility of a swinging door that is opened by pushing lightly on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps that provide added security so your cat won't be able to simply walk through from the outside.
Cat flaps are also often used in windows. They are easy to be installed, but they have to be installed at a high level as cats and dogs find it difficult to reach them. If the window is not high enough to use a cat's flap, you can use ramps, steps or stairs that are specially designed to aid the animal in getting to it.
Cat flaps can be installed into a brick wall, however it is not recommended unless you are experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's essential to make sure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. You should always consult a professional if you need to cut a hole in the wall for pipes or cables. It's also advisable to wear protective goggles and a dust mask to prevent inhaling any of the sawdust created by cutting through the walls of your home.
Choose the right cat flap
There are a variety of cat flaps on the market, and have different features. Some cat flaps have security features, such as microchip recognition or magnetic locks that prevent unauthorized entry. They also keep your pet from letting guests or other animals into the home. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to block draughts and moisture.
There are different sizes to choose from based on the breed and size of your pet. cat flap cover for winter are rectangular whereas others are square or circular. Choosing the right type of cat flap will be dictated by the space you have available as well as the type of window or door you want to attach it to.
The last thing to do is think about the opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. A simple aluminium or plastic swing-out door is one choice and is typically the cheapest. It won't stop other cats and pets from entering, and you could also be letting in drafts.
Once you have selected the appropriate cat flap and measured the windows or doors then it's time to install it. Start by marking the height of the belly on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line isn't too low and is straight on the door. Use your spirit level to draw a template of the cat flap. Then, you can use your jigsaw to cut out the outline of the door. When you're satisfied with the results sand down the edges and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for the screws.
Make the Tools
As with all DIY tasks, it's recommended to have the right tools for the job. You'll require the cat flap as well as an eraser and tape measure, a spirit-level, a drill and a jigsaw depending on the type of door or window.
Consult the manufacturer before making any changes to a door made of composite. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal broken. In this case you'll likely have to install a new pane of toughened glass instead.
For wooden or uPVC doors will require cutting out the design of your cat flap using a Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to mark the size hole you'll need.
After you've made the hole, you will need to sand the edges of the opening. This will help prevent the possibility of water damage and rust. It is also recommended to cover the holes in your window or door and the side of the flap to keep out rain and wind. After the sealant has dried then you can put up your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
Installing a flap allows your cat to go and come whenever it wishes. This is a simple process that most people can accomplish themselves, although you will likely require the assistance of an expert for installing the flap in an unglazed door or any other type of uPVC door.
Check out the directions included with the cat flap. You will find an illustration of the template. This will provide you with an idea of where holes for the flap have to be made in the door. Mark the areas where you need to drill with a pencil.
After you have marked the door on your door, use the jigsaw and cut out the design for the cat flap. This is a fairly simple job, but you'll have to be comfortable using a Jigsaw. If you're worried about doing it yourself, there are many businesses that can handle this for you at a very low cost.
The next step is to attach the interior part of the cat flap to the hole in your door. You may have to seal it prior to doing this to ensure that it remains weather-proof and water resistant. The outside of your cat flap could be placed on the bolts' tops and then securing them. It is recommended that you test the flap with your cat to make sure that it works correctly and that they can move easily through it.