Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap into your home could be a big step for any pet owner. If your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have new kittens that require a thorough screening, there are a lot of options there to choose from.
It can be intimidating for people who aren't experts in installing the cat flap, but with proper instructions, it's simple. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the most important factors.
Choose the Right Door, or Window
There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, including some with locks that can be used to prevent your pet from going out or inside, and others that have advanced features like microchips for door entry system. However, it's important to consider the ease of your cat to teach to use the flap before you buy and install one.
Based on the style of your house It is recommended to situate the cat flap near an opening or window that opens onto a sheltered area of the garden so that your cat can feel safe when entering and leaving the home. If you can, this will also give them a way back case they are chased by another cat or by a human intent to hurt them.
It's possible to put a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as easy as putting one in a wood door. This is because uPVC and composite doors are available in different thicknesses, which can affect the way holes are cut as well as the material you're fixing it to.
If cat flap fitting near me installing the flap inside a glass door it is recommended that you seek out a glazier that is skilled in this type of work to avoid costly mistakes. If you are fitting the flap into the door made of wood, you should introduce your cat to it at first to make sure it is familiar with its size and shape.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
To install the right cat flap that's suitable for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat's height. This will allow you to ensure that your cat flap is placed at the right height for the door or window, and that it is large enough for him to get in and out easily.
To do this, place your pet on their back and gently rub your fingers along their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back, face or legs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline acrobatics.
Alternatively, you can also consider your pet's weight as a way to gauge how big an opening you require. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg, for example, the suggested cat flap opening size is 14x12cm.
Measure Your Door or Window
This type of cat flap, as its name suggests, is designed to be affixed to a door. It allows your pet to move in and out at their convenience. These flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and sit in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that can be opened by lightly pushing on either side. There are locks on some of these flaps, which provide extra security, so your cat can't simply walk through from the outside.
Cat flaps are also often employed in windows. They are easy to be installed, but they have to be installed at a high level as cats and dogs have a difficult time to reach them. If the window is too high to use a cat flap, then ramps, steps, or specially built stairs can be used to help the animal access it.
It is possible to put the cat flap onto the brick wall, however it is not recommended for those who aren't experienced in the masonry industry. This could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it is important to make sure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. You should always consult an expert if you have to create a hole for cables and pipes. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask can help you avoid inhaling the sawdust that is created when cutting through your walls.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are a variety of cat flaps available and each one comes with different features. Some come with security options such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by unauthorized persons and prevent your pet from allowing friends or other animals into the house. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to block the elements of moisture and draughts.
There's also a range of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are square or circular. The kind of cat flap you choose will depend on the size of the opening and the type of window or door you're fitting it to.
Lastly, think about the opening mechanism that your cat flap will come with. A simple aluminium or plastic swing-out door is one alternative and is usually the cheapest. But, it will not keep other animals or cats from entering and you may let draughts in too.
It's time to install your cat flap. Make a mark on the belly of the door with your ruler. Use a spirit-level to ensure that the line is not too low and is straight on the door. Utilize your spirit level to draw a sketch of the cat flap. Then, using your jigsaw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you are satisfied with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil markings to create holes for screws.
Make the Tools
It's important to have the right tools when doing any DIY project. The most essential things you'll need are the cat flap itself, a tape measure and a good pencil as well as a spirit level, a file, drill and a jigsaw (depending on your window or door type).
Contact the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a door made of composite. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal damaged. In this case, you'll probably require an additional pane of toughened glass instead.
You'll require the jigsaw to cut your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines provided by the manufacture. If you can, use a template to help you determine the size of the hole you need to cut.
After you've made the hole, you'll have to sand the edges of the opening. This will prevent future rust and water damage. It is also recommended to cover the holes in your door or window and the back of the cat flap to block rain and wind. Once the sealant has dried, you can install your new cat-flap!
Install the Flap
Fitting a flap will allow your cat to come and go whenever it wishes. It's a simple procedure that most people can accomplish by themselves, though you may require the help of a professional if you are installing the flap on the form of a glass door or another kind of uPVC door.
Begin by reading the instructions included with your cat flap to find the template. This will give you an idea of the location where the holes are to be drilled to install the flap in the door. Then, mark the places where you have to drill using a pencil.
Once you have marked out the door's area and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a relatively easy job, but you'll require a good understanding of the jigsaw. Many companies will do this task for you for a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to do it yourself.
Then, attach the outer part of the door to the hole in your door. It may be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this to ensure it is weatherproof and watertight. Then, you can put the outer portion of the cat flap on top of the fixing bolts, and tighten them all. It is recommended that you test the flap using your cat to make sure that it is working properly and that they can enter and leave easily through it.