Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in your home is an excellent step for any pet owner. There are many options available for you, no matter if your cat is getting older and needs extra security, or you have kittens that require to be vetted.
It can be difficult for those who aren't professionals to put in an animal flap, but with the proper instructions, it's simple. Planning, preparation and precision are the keys.
Choose the Right Door or Window
There's a wide selection of cat flaps that are available, some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from going out or coming in) and others with advanced features such as microchip door entry systems. But, it's important to consider how easy your cat is to train to use the flap prior to making a purchase and install one.
It's best to place the cat flap, based on the design of your home, inside an opening that leads into an area of the garden that is protected. This will help your cat feel secure when entering or leaving your home. This will also allow them to return inside if they are pursued by a pet or humans who want to harm them.
You can 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 because uPVC or composite doors come in various thicknesses. This could affect the method of cutting holes, and the type of door you can fix into.
If you're installing the flap in glass doors it is recommended that you consult a glazier who specialises in this kind of work to avoid any costly errors. If you're installing the flap to the door made of wood it is recommended that you introduce your cat to it first to make sure it is familiar with its dimensions and shape.
Find out the size of your cat's belly
You'll need your cat's measurements to ensure that the cat flap you choose to install is the perfect fit. This will enable you to ensure that the cat flap is installed at the correct height on the window or door, and that it is large enough for him to get in and leave easily.
To do this, lay your pet on their back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back and face, as well as the legs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline Acrobatics.
Alternatively, you can also make use of your pet's weight to gauge how big an opening you'll need. If your cat weighs more than 5Kg, for example the suggested flap size is 14 x 12cm.
Make sure you measure your door or window
As the name suggests this kind of cat flap is designed to be affixed to the door, and offers an opportunity for your pet to leave or enter whenever it wants. These flaps are constructed of aluminum or plastic and are located in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that can be opened by gently pushing on either side. The flaps can be locked which provide extra security so that your cat is not able to walk through the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also frequently used in windows. They can be easily installed, however they have to be placed at a high level as cats and dogs find it difficult to get them. If the window is too high to use a cat flap then steps, ramps or purpose built stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it.
A cat flap could be incorporated into a brick wall, however it is not recommended unless you are skilled in masonry work as it could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's important to ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. If they are, an opening must be created for them and this is something you should always seek expert advice on. It is also recommended to wear protective goggles and a dust mask to avoid breathing in any of the sawdust created by cutting holes in your home's walls.
Choose the right cat flap
There are a variety of cat flaps available on the market, and they have different features. Some are equipped with security features like magnetic locks or microchip recognition to prevent unauthorized entry and also stop your pet allowing friends or other animals into the house. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to block out moisture and draughts.
There are various sizes to choose from based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are circular or square. Selecting the best cat flap is determined by the space you have available as well as the type of door or window you want to attach it to.
Finally consider the opening mechanism that your cat flap will have. The most affordable option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. However, it won't prevent other cats or pets from gaining access and you could be letting draughts in too.
It's time to install your cat flap. Mark the belly height of the door using your ruler. Make use of a spirit-level to make sure that the line is not too low and is straight on the door. Use your spirit level to draw a template for the flap for cats. Then, using your jigsaw, cut out the outline of the door. When you're satisfied with the results sand down the edges and then drill through the pencil lines to make holes for the screws.
Make the Tools
It's essential to have the right tools for performing any DIY project. You'll need the cat flap, an eraser and tape measure as well as a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the kind of door or window.
If you're installing in a composite door, it is recommended to consult with the manufacturer prior to making any changes, since this could affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this instance it's likely that you'll need to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.
For wooden or uPVC doors will require cutting out the shape of your cat flap using a jigsaw and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. If you can, use a template to help you mark out the dimensions of the hole you'll have to cut.
After you've made the hole, you'll need to smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This should prevent any rust or water damage from occurring in the future. You should also seal the holes in your window or door and the back of the flap to keep out wind and rain. After the sealant has dried it is time to install your new cat-flap!
Install the Flap
The installation of a flap will allow your cat to go and come whenever it pleases. It's a simple procedure that most people can accomplish themselves, although you'll likely require the assistance of an expert for installing the flap on a glass door or other kind of uPVC door.
Begin by reading the instructions provided with your cat flap to find the template drawing. This will give you an idea of the location where holes need to be made for the flap on the door. Mark the areas where you need to drill with a pencil.
Once you have marked out the area in your door then use a jigsaw cut out the design of the cat flap. fitting a cat flap in a upvc door Repair My Windows And Doors is a relatively simple job, but you'll need to be comfortable with the jigsaw. If you are concerned about doing it yourself, there are many companies that can complete this for you at a minimal cost.
Then, you can screw the inside 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 waterproof and weatherproof. You can then place the outer section of the flap on top of the fixing bolts and then tighten the bolts all together. It is recommended to test the flap using your cat to ensure that it functions properly and that they are able to enter and leave easily through it.