Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is an excellent option for any pet owner. If your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have new kittens that need to be vetted There are a lot of options there to choose from.
Installing a cat flap may be daunting for non-professionals however, with the proper instructions, it's not difficult to do. Planning, Internet Page and precision are the most important factors.
Select the Right Door, or Windows
There are a variety of cat flaps, including some with locks that can be used to keep your pet from getting out or inside, and others that have high tech features like microchip door entry system. But, it's important to consider how easy your cat is to teach to use the flap prior to making a purchase and fit one.
Based on the style of your house, it's usually best to place the cat flap inside a window or door that opens to an area that is protected from the garden so your cat can feel safe when going into and out of the house. If you can this will also allow them a route back in should they get chased by a cat or by a human intent on harming them.
It is possible to install the cat flap on the form of 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 various thicknesses, and this can impact how holes are cut and 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 fitting the flap to an old wooden door, begin by introducing your cat to it before you fit it so that they can be familiar with its shape and size, and explore it from every angle.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
To install the right cat flap that's a good fit for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat. This will help you ensure that the flap is at the correct height on your window or door and that it's big enough to allow them to get in and out easily.
To do this, put your pet on their back and run your fingers gently across their belly. Look for a fat pad that is squishy around the lower back, face or legs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline circus skills.
You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you need. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg, for example the suggested flap opening size is 14 x 12cm.
Take a measurement of your door or window
Like the name suggests, this type of cat flap is made to be attached to an opening and provide a way for your pet to leave or enter as it pleases. They are usually made from aluminum or plastic and sit in the centre of the door. They come with an open door that is opened by pushing lightly on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps that offer extra security, so your cat won't be able to simply traverse through the door from outside.
A window is a common place to put a cat flap, and they are simple enough to install, though they often need to be set up high as it is difficult for dogs and cats to access them. If the window is too high to use a cat flap, steps, ramps or purpose constructed stairs can be used to aid the animal in accessing it.
A cat flap can be incorporated to a brick wall, but it is not recommended unless skilled in masonry work as it could weaken the structure of the wall. It is essential to ensure that there aren't any cables or pipes in the wall prior to you begin. If they are, a hole needs to be made for them. This is something you should always seek expert advice on. It's also advisable to wear protective goggles and a dust mask to prevent inhaling any of the sawdust created by cutting into the walls of your house.
Choose the right cat flap
There are numerous cat flaps available and they all have different features. Some cat flaps have security features, such as microchip recognition or magnetic locks that prevent unauthorized entry. They also stop your pet from letting friends or another animal into the house. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to keep out the elements and keep out drafts.
There are also different sizes available depending on the breed and size of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, whereas others are square or circular. The kind of cat flap you pick will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the kind of door or window you're fitting it to.
Finally, think about the mechanism to open your cat flap is likely to have. A simple aluminium or plastic swing-out door is a good option and is usually the least expensive. However, it will not prevent other cats or pets from gaining access and you could let draughts in too.
It's time to install your cat flap. Start by marking the height of the belly on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is straight on the door and not too low. Use your spirit level to draw a sketch of the cat flap. Then, using your jigsaw, cut out the outline of the door. When you're happy with the results sand down the edges and then drill through the pencil marks to make holes for screws.
Make the Tools
Like all DIY jobs, it's always advisable to make sure you have the appropriate tools for the job. The main things you'll need are the cat flap, a tape measure and a decent pencil, a spirit level, drill, file, and an jigsaw (depending on your windows or doors).
If you're installing a composite door, it is recommended to check with the manufacturer prior to making any alterations as this may invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this scenario, you'll probably have to install an additional pane of toughened glass instead.
You'll need to use the jigsaw to cut your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines provided by the manufacture. If you can, use an outline to help identify the dimensions of the hole you have to cut.
After you've made the hole, you must sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop the possibility of water damage and rust. It is also recommended to cover the holes in your door or window and the back of the cat flap to keep out wind and rain. When the sealant has dried and dry, you can install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
The installation of a flap will allow your cat to come and go whenever it wants. Most people can put in the flap by themselves. However should you wish to put it in the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you may need a professional.
Take a look at the instructions that came with the cat flap. You will find an illustration of the template. This will give you an idea of where the holes for the flap need to be drilled into the door. Note click this link 'll have to drill with pencil.
After you have mapped out the area in your door, use a jigsaw to cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task, but you'll have to be comfortable using the Jigsaw. If you are concerned about doing this yourself, there are plenty of companies that can complete this for you at a minimal cost.
Then, attach the outer part of the door to the hole in your door. It is possible to seal the flap before you do this in order to ensure it is weatherproof and watertight. Then, you can put the outer section of the flap on top of the fixing bolts and then tighten them all. You must test the cat flap on your cat to ensure that it functions properly and that it allows them to enter and exit easily.