Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is a fantastic step for any pet owner. If your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have new kittens that require a thorough screening There are a lot of options there for you.
Installing a cat flap can be daunting for non-professionals however, with the proper instructions, it's easy to do. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and precision.
Select the Right Door or Windows
There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, some with 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. But, it's important to consider how easy it is for your cat to train to use the flap before you buy and install one.
It is recommended to put the cat flap, depending on the design of your home, in an opening that leads into a garden that is sheltered. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering or leaving your home. If you can it will also provide them a way back case they are chased by another cat or by humans who are intent to hurt them.
It is possible to install a cat flap in the case of a uPVC door or a glass window, but it's not as straightforward as putting one in the door made of wood. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors come in different thicknesses, which affect the way holes are cut and the materials you're fixing them into.
If you're installing the flap on the glass of a door it is recommended to consult a glazier who specialises in such work to avoid any costly errors. If you're fitting the flap into the door made of wood it is recommended that you introduce your cat first to ensure that it becomes familiar with its size and shape.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
It is important to know the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap you choose to install is the perfect fit. This will ensure that the flap is at the right height on your window or door and that it's big enough to allow them to enter and exit easily.
To do this, lay your pet on their back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Check for any squishy fat pads which may be visible around their lower back, face or the limbs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline Acrobatics.
You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you need. If your cat weighs 5Kg, for example the suggested flap opening size is 14x12cm.
Take a measurement of your door or window
As the name suggests this kind of cat flap is designed to be fixed into the door, and offers a way for your pet to leave or enter as it pleases. They are usually made of aluminum or plastic and rest in the middle of the door. They come with an open door that opens by pressing lightly on either side. They can be locked that provide additional security so that your cat is not able to traverse the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also commonly employed in windows. They are able to be easily installed, but they need to be set at a height where cats and dogs find it difficult to access them. If the window is not high enough to use a cat's flap, you can use steps, ramps or specially designed stairs to assist the animal in reaching it.
It is possible to insert the cat flap onto brick walls, however it is not recommended for people who are not experienced in masonry. This 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. If they are, an opening must be created for them and this is something that you should always seek professional advice on. Wearing protective glasses or a dust mask will allow you to avoid breathing in the sawdust created when you cut into your walls.
Choose cat flap installer
There are a variety of cat flaps on the market, and all offer various features. Some cat flaps have security features, such as microchip recognition or magnetic locks that prevent unauthorized entry. They also stop your pet from allowing friends or another animal into the home. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to keep out draughts and moisture.
There is also a choice of sizes, based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular while others are circular or square. Choosing the right type of cat flap will be dictated by the space available and the kind of door or window you intend to install it on.
Also, think about the opening mechanism that your cat flap is likely to have. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is one choice and is typically the cheapest. It won't prevent other animals and cats from entering, and you could also be letting in draughts.
It's time to install your cat flap. Begin by marking the belly height on the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure the line is not too low and is in line with the door. Utilize your spirit level to draw a sketch of the cat flap. Then, you can use your Jigsaw to cut the outline in the door. Once you are happy with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil markings to make holes for screws.
Prepare the Tools
As with all DIY jobs, it's always advisable to make sure you have the appropriate tools for the job. The most essential things you'll need are the cat flap itself as well as a tape measure, a good pencil as well as a spirit level, drill, file, and a Jigsaw (depending on your window or door 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 become broken. In this instance you'll require an entirely new pane of toughened glass instead.
You'll require an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. If you can, use an example to determine the size of hole you'll need to cut.
After you've cut the required hole, you should then sand down the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will prevent any rust or water damage from happening in the future. Finally, you should apply any sealant that is needed to the rear of the cat flap, and to the holes in the window or door to keep out the elements of wind and rain. After the sealant has dried, you can install your new cat-flap!
Install the Flap
Installing a flap allows your cat to move around whenever it wishes. The majority of people can install the flap on their own. However when you plan to put it in the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you may require an expert.
Look at the instructions that came with the cat flap. There is a template drawing. This will provide you with an idea of where holes for the flap need to be drilled in the door. Then, mark the places where you have to drill using the pencil.
Once you have marked out the area in your door and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a relatively easy job, but you'll have to be comfortable using the saw. Numerous companies will perform this work for you at a reasonable price If you're not sure how to take on the task yourself.
Then, screw the inner part to the hole of your door. It is possible to seal the flap prior to you do this in order to ensure it is waterproof and weatherproof. You can then put the outer portion of the flap on top of the fixing bolts and then tighten them all. You should test the cat flap on your cat to make sure that it functions properly and allows them to enter and exit easily.