Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is a great step for any pet owner. There are a variety of options for you, no matter if your cat is older and requires additional security or if you have kittens that require to be checked.
It can be intimidating for non-professionals to install a cat flap, but with the right instructions it's easy. The key is preparation, planning and precision.
Select the Right Door or Window
There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to stop your pet from getting out or in and others with high tech features like microchip door entry systems. It is important to consider how it is easy to train your cat to use the flap before you buy and install one.
Depending on the style of your home It is recommended to place the cat flap inside a window or door that opens out into a sheltered area of the garden, so that your cat can feel safe when going into and out of the house. If possible it will also provide them a route back in case they are pursued by a different cat or by humans who are intent to harm them.
It is possible to install an egress flap inside the form of a uPVC door or a glass window however, it's not as simple as putting one in wooden doors. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors come in different thicknesses, and this can impact the way holes are cut as well as the material you're fixing it into.
If you're installing the flap on the glass of a door it is recommended that you seek out a glazier that is skilled in this kind of work to avoid any costly errors. If you're installing the flap to an existing wooden door, you should introduce your cat to it first so that it can become familiar with its size and shape.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
You'll need your cat's measurements to make sure that the cat flap you install is a perfect fit. This will 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 exit easily.
To do this, place your pet on their back and gently rub your fingers across their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back, face or limbs. The padding provides your pet safety and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics that felines are known for.
You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you need. If your cat weighs 5kg, for instance the suggested cat flap opening size is 14x12cm.
Measure your window or door
This kind of cat flap, as its name suggests is designed to be affixed to the door. It allows your pet to move in and out at their convenience. These flaps are made of plastic or aluminum and are placed in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that opens by gently pressing on either side. The flaps can be locked which provide extra security which means that your cat can't walk through the door from outside.
A window is another common place to put a cat flap and these are easy enough to put in, but they are usually located high enough as it's difficult for dogs and cats to access them. If the window is not sufficient to accommodate a cat's flap, then you can use ramps, steps, or specially designed stairs to help the animal reach it.
It is possible to insert an egress into the brick wall, however it is not recommended for those who are not experienced in brickwork. 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 begin. If there are, there must be a hole created for them and this is something that you should always seek expert advice on. It's also advisable to wear protective goggles and a dust mask to avoid breathing in any of the sawdust created by cutting into the walls of your house.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are a variety of cat flaps on the market and they all have various features. Some come with security options such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition to prevent unauthorized entry and also stop your pet allowing pets or friends into the home. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to keep out water and drafts.
There's also a variety of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are available in rectangular shapes, while others are circular or square. The kind 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 your cat flap will use. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is a good choice and is typically the cheapest. It will not stop other pets and cats from entering the room, and you could let in draughts.
Once you've selected the right cat flap and measured your window or door then it's time to install it. Begin by marking the height of the belly on the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure the line isn't too low and that it is straight across the door. Use your spirit level to draw a sketch of the cat flap. Then, using the Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. When you're satisfied with the result, sand the edges and then drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.
Make the Tools
As with all DIY jobs, it's always recommended to have the proper tools to complete the task. You'll require the cat flap, a pencil and tape measure along with a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the type of door or window.
Check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a door made of composite. cat flap bifold doors could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to become damaged. In this instance you'll have to install a new pane of toughened glass instead.
You'll need an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions that are provided by the manufacturer. Make use of a template to determine the size of hole you'll need.
After you've cut the required hole, you should then sand down the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop any rust or water damage from happening in the near future. In the end, you must apply any sealant you require to the back of the cat flap and to the holes in the door or window to keep out the elements of wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry, you can install your cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to go and come whenever it wants, installing a flap can help. Most people can put in the flap themselves. However, if you want to install it in glass or uPVC type door, you might need an expert.
Check out the directions included with your cat flap. You will find an illustration of the template. This will give an idea of where the holes will be drilled to install the flap on the door. Mark the areas that you'll have to drill using pencil.
After you have marked the door on your door, use the jigsaw and cut out the shape for the cat flap. It's a relatively easy task however, you'll need to be comfortable with the jigsaw. Many companies will complete this task for you at a reasonable price If you're not sure how to do it yourself.
Then, screw the inner part to the hole in your door. It is possible to seal the flap prior to you do this to ensure it is waterproof and weatherproof. You can then place the outer part of the flap on top of the fixing bolts and then tighten them all together. It is recommended that you test the cat flap with your cat to ensure that it functions properly and that they are able to enter and leave easily through it.