Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap inside your home can be a major step for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and needs extra security or you have a new kitten who require a vet check, there are plenty of options out there to choose from.
It can be a bit daunting for those who aren't professionals to put in the cat flap, but with the proper instructions, it's simple. Preparation, planning and precision are the most important factors.
Select the Right Door, or Windows
There are a wide variety of cat flaps to choose from including some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet going out or coming in) and others with high-tech features like microchip door entry systems. But, it's important to think about the ease of your cat to teach to use the flap prior to making a purchase and fit one.
Depending on the design of your home, it's usually best to situate the cat flap in an opening or window that opens to an area of protection in the garden so your cat will feel secure going into and out of the house. If you can this will also allow them a route back in case they are chased by another cat or by humans who are intent to hurt them.
It is possible to install an egress flap inside the case of a uPVC door or a glass window however it's not as easy as fitting one into a wooden door. It's because uPVC or composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses. This can affect the how holes are cut and what you fix into.
To avoid costly mistakes It is recommended that you consult a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you are fitting the flap onto an existing wooden door it is recommended that you introduce your cat first to ensure that it becomes familiar with its size and shape.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
It is important to know the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap you install is a good fit. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is at the right height on your window or door and that it's large enough to allow them to enter and out easily.
To do this, put your pet on their back and gently rub your fingers along their belly. Feel for any squishy fat pads that might be visible around their lower back, face and legs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline acrobatics.
You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine the size of opening you require. If your cat weighs more than 5Kg, for example the suggested cat flap size is 14 x 12cm.
Measure Your Door or Window
This kind of cat flap, as its name suggests, is designed to be affixed to a door. It allows your pet to be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. They are usually made of plastic or aluminium and simply rest in the middle of the door. They come with a two-way swinging door that opens by pushing lightly on either side. They are available in locking versions that offer added security, which means that your cat can't traverse the door from outside.
A window is another popular place to put a cat flap and these are easy enough to install, though they usually need to be located high enough as it's difficult for dogs and cats to reach them otherwise. If the window is not high enough to use a cat's flap, you can make use of ramps, steps, or stairs that are specially designed to aid the animal in getting to it.
A cat flap could also be fitted into a brick wall, however it is not recommended unless you are skilled in masonry work as it could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's essential to ensure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. It is recommended to consult a professional if you need to cut a hole in the wall for pipes or cables. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask will help you avoid inhaling the sawdust that is created when you cut into your walls.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are a variety of cat flaps on the market and each one comes with different features. Some are equipped with security features such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by unauthorized persons and prevent your pet from allowing guests or other animals to enter the home. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to keep out water and drafts.
There are various sizes that are available based on the breed and size of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, whereas others are circular or square. Selecting the best cat flap is determined by the space available and the kind of door or window you are fitting it to.
Finally consider the mechanism to open your cat flap is likely to have. Info or plastic swing-out door is an choice and is typically the least expensive. However, it won't keep other animals or cats from gaining access and you could let draughts in as well.
It's time to put in your cat flap. Determine the belly height of the door using your ruler. Make use of a spirit-level to ensure that the line is not too low and that it is straight across the door. Create a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Next, use your jigsaw to cut out the outline in the door. When you are satisfied with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil markings to make holes for screws.
Make the Tools
Like all DIY jobs, it's always advisable to make sure you have the proper tools for the job. You'll need a cat flap, an eraser and tape measure as well as a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the kind of door or window.
Consult the manufacturer before making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal broken. In this case you'll likely have to install an additional pane of toughened glass instead.
You'll need to use an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines given by the manufacturer. If you can, use a template to help you determine the size of the hole you'll need to cut.
After you've cut the hole, you will have to sand off the edges of the opening. This will help prevent any future water damage or rust. Also, you should apply any sealant that is needed to the rear of the cat flap, and to the holes in the door or window to block rain and wind. After the sealant has dried, you're ready to install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to come and go as it pleases, fitting flaps can be helpful. This is a simple process that most people can do on their own, but you may need to hire a professional if you are installing the flap on an unglazed door or any other kind of uPVC door.
Check out the directions included with the cat flap. There is a drawing of the template. This will give you an idea of where the holes for the flap have to be drilled in the door. Mark the areas in which you will have to drill using the pencil.
After you've marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw and cut out the 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 for a reasonable price if you are hesitant to take on the task yourself.
Next, you will need to attach the interior part of the flap onto the hole in your door. You may need to apply sealant before doing this to ensure that it stays watertight and weather resistant. The outer part of your cat flap could be placed on the bolts' tops and then tacked together. It is recommended that you test the flap with your cat to make sure that it works correctly and that they are able to enter and leave easily through it.