Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in your home is a great option for any pet owner. There are numerous options for you, no matter if your cat is older and requires additional security, or you have kittens that require to be vetted.
Installing a cat flap could be intimidating for people who aren't professionals, but, with the right instructions, it's easy to complete. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and accuracy.
Select the Right Door or Windows
There are a variety of cat flaps available including 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. It is important to think about how it is easy to teach your cat to use the flap, before you purchase and install one.
It is best to place the cat flap, based on the design of your home, inside the form of a window that opens to an area of the garden that is protected. This will help your cat feel secure when entering or leaving your home. This will also enable them to return inside in the event of being chased by another animal or human who wants to harm them.
It is possible to install an egress flap inside a uPVC door or glass window, but it's not as straightforward as putting one in wooden doors. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in different thicknesses. This could affect the how holes are cut and what you fix into.
If you're installing the flap in the glass of a door it is recommended to seek out a glazier that is skilled in this kind of work to avoid any costly mistakes. If you're fitting the flap on the door made of wood, start by the cat with it before you fit it, so that they be familiar with its size and shape and explore it from all angles.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
It is important to know the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you put in is the perfect fit. This will allow you to make sure that the flap is placed at the right height on the window or door, and that it is large enough for him to enter and out easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Look for any squishy fat pads which may be visible around their lower back, face, and the limbs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline Acrobatics.
You can also use your pet's weight to determine the size of the opening you'll need. If your cat weighs 5Kg, for example, the suggested cat flap opening size is 14 x 12cm.
Measure your door or window
This kind of cat flap, as its name suggests, is designed to be affixed to the door. It lets your pet enter and exit at its convenience. These flaps are constructed of plastic or aluminum and are placed in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that is opened by lightly pushing on either side. The flaps are available with locking options that offer added security, so that your cat is not able to traverse the door from outside.
A window is a common location for a cat flap, and they are simple enough to install, though they are usually set up high as it is difficult for dogs and cats to reach them otherwise. If the window is too high to use a cat flap, then ramps, steps, or specially built stairs can be utilized to aid the animal in accessing it.
A cat flap could be installed into a brick wall, however this is not recommended unless you are familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it is important to ensure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. It is recommended to consult an expert if you have to make a hole for pipes or cables. It is also recommended to wear safety goggles and a dust protection mask to avoid inhaling any sawdust generated by cutting into your home's walls.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are numerous cat flaps available and all of them offer different features. Some come with security options such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that stop unauthorized entry and stop your pet allowing pets or friends into the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to block water and drafts.
There's also a variety of sizes, based on the size and breed of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, while others are circular or square. Selecting the best cat flap will be dictated by the space available and the kind of window or door you are fitting it to.
The last thing to do is think about the opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. A simple aluminium or plastic swing-out door is a good choice and is typically the cheapest. It will not stop other animals and cats from entering however, and you could be letting in draughts.
Once you've selected the appropriate cat flap and measured your door or window and window, it's now time to put it in place it. Start by marking the belly height on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is sitting straight on the door and not too low. Utilize your spirit level to draw a sketch of the cat flap. Next, use your saw to cut out the door's outline. When composite door cat flap satisfied with the results sand down the edges and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for the screws.
Prepare the Tools
It's important to have the right tools when undertaking any DIY project. The main things you'll need are the cat flap as well as a tape measure, a good pencil and a spirit level drill, file, and an jigsaw (depending on the window or door type).
If you're installing in a composite door, you should check with the manufacturer prior to making any alterations as this may affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this case you'll require a new pane of toughened glass instead.
You'll need a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to determine the size of hole you require.
After you've cut the required hole, you'll need to sand down the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop the possibility of water damage and rust. Also, you should apply any sealant that is needed to the back of the cat flap as well as to the holes in the window or door to keep out the elements of wind and rain. When the sealant has dried and dry, you can install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to move around as it pleases, fitting flaps can aid. Most people can install the flap by themselves. However, if you want to install it on a glass or uPVC type door, you may require a professional.
Check out the directions included with the cat flap. There is a drawing of the template. This will give you an idea of where the holes will be made for the flap on the door. Note the areas you'll have to drill with pencil.
After you have marked the door on your door, you can use the jigsaw to cut the the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task, but you'll require a good understanding of the saw. Many companies will do this work for you at a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to take on the task yourself.
Then, attach the outer part of the door to the hole in your door. It is possible to apply sealant prior to doing this to ensure it remains weather-proof and water resistant. You can then place the outer portion of the cat flap on top of the fixing bolts and then tighten them all. You should test the flap on your cat to ensure that it functions properly and that it allows them to exit and enter easily.