Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is an excellent step for any pet owner. There are many options available for you, whether your cat is getting older and requires extra security or if you have kittens who need to be checked.
Installing a cat flap could be daunting for non-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 Windows
There's a wide selection of cat flaps that are available including some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from going out or entering) and others with high-tech features like microchip door entry systems. It is important to consider the ease of your cat to teach to use the flap before you buy and install one.
Depending on the design of your home, it's generally best to put the cat flap near an opening or window that opens out into an area that is protected from the garden so that your cat is secure when going into and out of the house. cat flap fitting near me repairmywindowsanddoors will also allow them to get back inside in the event of being chased by other animals or human beings who wish to hurt them.
It is possible to install a cat flap in a uPVC door or a glass window however it's not as simple as fitting one into a wooden door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors are available in different thicknesses, which can affect the way holes are cut as well as what you're fixing to.
To avoid costly mistakes It is recommended to consult an expert glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you're installing the flap to the door made of wood, start by introduction of your cat to it prior to fitting it so that they can become familiar with its size and shape and explore it from all angles.
Find out the size of your cat's belly
It is important to know the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you choose to install is the perfect fit. This will help you ensure that the flap is the right height for your window or door and that it's big enough to allow them to get in and out easily.
To do this, lay your pet on their back and gently rub your fingers along their belly. Check for any fat pads that are squishy that may be visible around their lower back, face and the limbs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline acrobatics.
Alternately, you could consider your pet's weight as a way to determine the size of an opening you require. If your cat weighs 5kg, for instance the suggested cat flap size is 14x12cm.
Take a measurement of your door or window
Like the name suggests the cat flap is designed to be affixed to a door and provides the pet with a way to go in or out as it pleases. The flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and are located in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that can be opened by gently pressing on either side. These flaps are available in locking versions which provide extra security which means that your cat can't traverse the door from outside.
A window is another common location for a cat flap and these are easy enough to install, though they often need to be located high enough as it's difficult for dogs and cats to reach them otherwise. If the window is not sufficient in height to be used as a cat's flap, you can make use of ramps, steps, or stairs that are specially designed to help the animal reach it.
It is possible to put a cat flap into brick walls, however it is not recommended for people who are not experienced in the masonry industry. This could weaken the wall's structure. It is important to make sure there aren't any cables or pipes within the wall before you start. It is recommended to consult an expert if you have to create a hole for pipes and cables. It's also advisable to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust protection mask to avoid inhaling any sawdust that is created by cutting through the walls of your home.
Choose the right cat flap
There are numerous cat flaps on the market and each one comes with various features. Some are equipped with security features like magnetic locks or microchips that block entry by unauthorized persons and stop your pet allowing guests or other animals to enter the home. Some have weatherproof seals and insulation to block out moisture and draughts.
There's also a variety of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular 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 installing it to.
Last but not least, take into consideration the kind of opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is one option and is usually the least expensive. It will not stop other pets and cats from entering the room, and you could be letting in draughts.
It's time to put in your cat flap. Begin by marking the height of the belly on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit-level to make sure the line isn't too low and is in line with the door. Use your spirit level to draw a sketch of the flap for cats. Then, using a Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. When you're happy with the result, sand the edges and then drill through the pencil marks to make holes for the screws.
Make the Tools
It's important to have the right tools for doing any DIY project. You'll require the cat flap, a pencil and tape measure, a spirit-level, a drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the kind of window or door.
If you're installing in a composite door, consult with the manufacturer before making any alterations because this could cause the warranty to be invalidated or break the weathertight seal. In this instance it's likely you'll need to replace the glass with a brand new piece of toughened glass.
You'll need a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines provided by the manufacture. Make use of a template to mark out the size hole you require.
After you've cut the required hole, you should then smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop the possibility of water damage and rust. Also, you should apply any necessary sealant to the rear of the cat flap, and to the holes in the door or window to keep out rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry it is time to install your cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to move around as it pleases, fitting flaps can aid. This is a straightforward process that most people can do on their own, but you may require the help of an expert for installing the flap in an unglazed door or any other kind of uPVC door.
Begin by studying the instructions provided with your cat flap to locate the template drawing. This will give an idea of where the holes are to be drilled for the flap to be placed in the door. Mark the areas where you have to drill using pencil.
After you have marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw and cut out the shape for the cat flap. This is a relatively easy job, but you'll have to be comfortable using the saw. Numerous companies will perform this task for you for a reasonable price if you are hesitant to take on the task yourself.
Next, you will need to attach the inside of the flap onto the hole in your door. You may have to apply sealant prior to doing this to ensure that it remains weather-proof and water resistant. The outer part of your cat flap can be placed on top of the bolts, and then tightened together. It is recommended to test the flap with your cat to make sure that it is working properly and that they can move easily through it.