Fitting a Cat Flap

Getting a cat flap fitted inside your home can be a major step for any pet owner. There are Discover More of options for you, no matter if your cat is old and requires extra security or you have kittens that require to be checked.
It can be intimidating for non-professionals to install the cat flap, but with proper instructions, it's simple. The key is preparation, planning and accuracy.
Select the Right Door, or Windows
There's a wide selection of cat flaps to choose from including some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from leaving or entering) and others with high-tech features such as microchip door entry systems. It's important to think about how easy it will be to teach your cat how to use the flap, before you buy and install one.
It's best to place the cat flap, based on the style of your home, in an opening that leads into a sheltered garden area. This will help your cat feel secure when entering and leaving your home. If possible it will also provide them a route back in should they be chased by a cat or by humans who are intent on harming them.
It is possible to install a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it's not the same as fitting one in a wood door. This is because uPVC and composite doors come in various thicknesses, which can affect the way holes are cut as well as the materials you're fixing them to.
To avoid costly errors to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended that you consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a door with a glass front. If you're fitting the flap on 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.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
It is important to know the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you put in is a good fit. This will help you ensure that your cat flap is installed at the right height for the window or door, and also that it's large enough for him to enter and leave easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers over their belly. Look for a fat pad that is squishy around the lower back or face, or around the legs. The extra padding offers your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics that felines are known for.
Alternatively, you can also make use of your pet's weight to determine the size of an opening you require. If your cat weighs 5Kg, for example, the suggested cat flap opening size is 14x12cm.
Make sure you measure your door or window
This kind of cat flap, as its name suggests is made to be fitted into a door. It allows your pet to move in and out at their convenience. These flaps are made of plastic or aluminum and sit in the middle of the door. cat flap installation in glass doors near me have a dual swinging opening that can be opened by gently pressing on either side. The flaps can be locked that offer added security, so that your cat is not able to walk through the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also frequently employed in windows. They are easy to be installed, however they have to be placed at a high level as cats and dogs have a difficult time to access them. If the window is not sufficient to accommodate a cat's flap, then you can make use of ramps, steps or specially designed stairs to aid the animal in getting to it.
A cat flap can also be fitted into a brick wall, however it is not recommended unless you're skilled in masonry work as it could weaken the wall's structure. It's important to check that there aren't any cables or pipes in the wall prior to you start. Always consult a professional if you need to create a hole for pipes or cables. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask can allow you to avoid breathing in the dust that is generated when cutting into your walls.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are a variety of cat flaps available on the market, and all offer different features. Some cat flaps have security features like microchip recognition or magnetic locks that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also stop your pet from letting friends or animals to enter the house. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to block out draughts and moisture.
There are different sizes to choose from based on the breed and size of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, whereas others are square or circular. The type of cat flap you pick will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the kind of door or window you're installing it to.
Finally consider the opening mechanism that your cat flap is likely to have. The cheapest option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. However, it will not stop other pets or cats from entering and you may let draughts through too.
Once you've selected the appropriate cat flap and measured the window or door and window, it's now time to put it in place it. Start by marking the height of the belly on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is sitting exactly on the door and not too low. Create a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, you can use your Jigsaw to cut the outline in the door. When you're satisfied with the results sand down the edges and drill through the pencil lines to create holes for the screws.
Make the Tools
As with all DIY jobs, it's always advisable to make sure you have the appropriate tools for the job. The most important things you'll require are the cat flap itself as well as a tape measure, an excellent pencil as well as a spirit level, drill, file and a jigsaw (depending on the door or window type).
Consult the manufacturer before making any changes to a door made of composite. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal to be damaged. In this case it's likely that you'll have to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.
You'll need to use an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions that are provided by the manufacturer. Make use of a template to mark out the size hole you'll require.
After you have cut the hole, you'll have to sand off the edges of the opening. This will stop any future water damage or rust. You should also cover the holes in your window or door and the back of the cat flap to prevent wind and rain. After the sealant has dried, you're ready to install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
Fitting a flap will allow your cat to move around whenever it wishes. Most people can put in the flap by themselves. However, if you want to put it in the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you may need a professional.
Begin by reading the instructions provided with your cat flap to find the template. This will give you an idea of where holes for the flap have to be drilled into the door. Note the areas you'll need to drill into using a pencil.
After you have marked the area on your door, you can use the jigsaw to cut the shape for the cat flap. This is a relatively easy task, but you'll require a good understanding of the jigsaw. Many companies will complete this for you at a reasonable cost if you are hesitant to tackle it yourself.
The next step is to screw the inner part of the cat flap to the hole in your door. You may have to seal it prior to making this move to ensure it stays watertight and weather resistant. The outer section of your cat flap could be placed on the bolts on top, and then securing them. You should test the flap on your cat to make sure that it is working correctly and that it allows them to enter and exit easily.