Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is a fantastic option for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and requires extra security, or you have kittens who require a vet check there are plenty of options out there to choose from.
Installing a cat flap can be intimidating for people who aren't professionals, but with the right instructions, it's not hard to complete. The key is preparation, planning and precision.
Select the Right Door or Windows
There are a wide variety of cat flaps to choose from, some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet going out or entering) and others with advanced 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 purchase and install one.
Depending on the design of your house, it's usually best to place the cat flap near an opening or window that opens onto a sheltered area of the garden so that your cat can feel safe when entering and leaving the home. This will also allow them to get back inside if they're chased by another animal or human beings who wish to harm them.
You can put a cat flap in the case of a uPVC door or glass window however it's not as simple as putting one in a wooden door. It's because uPVC or composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses. This can impact the how holes are cut and what you fix to.
To avoid costly mistakes to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended to consult a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you're installing the flap into a wooden door you must introduce your cat first to ensure that it becomes familiar with its size and shape.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
In order to install an appropriate cat flap that is suitable for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat. This will ensure that the flap is at the right height on your window or door and that it's large enough to allow them to get in and exit easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Feel for any squishy fat pads - these could be visible on their lower back, face or the limbs. The padding gives your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics felines are famous for.
Alternately, you could consider your pet's weight as a way to determine the size of an opening you need. If your cat weighs 5kg, for instance the suggested cat flap size is 14 x 12cm.
Make sure you measure your door or window
This type 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. They are usually made of aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door. They have an open door that opens by pressing lightly on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps that provide additional security to ensure that your cat isn't able to enter the door from the outside.
double glazing cat flap are also frequently employed in windows. They can be easily installed, but they have to be placed at an elevated level since cats and dogs find it difficult to reach them. If the window is too high to use a cat flap then ramps, steps or specially built stairs can be used to aid the animal in accessing it.
A cat flap could also be fitted into a brick wall, however it is not recommended unless you are familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it's essential to ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. Always consult an expert when you need to cut a hole in the wall for pipes or cables. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask will allow you to avoid breathing in the dust that is generated when cutting through your walls.
Choose the right cat flap
There are many different cat flaps available and all of them offer various features. Certain cat flaps come with security features, such as magnetic locks or microchips that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. double glazing cat flap stop your pet from letting friends or animals to enter the home. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to block water and drafts.
There are also different sizes that are available based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are circular or square. The best type of cat flap will be determined by the space you have available and the type of door or window you intend to install it on.
Last but not least, consider the type of opening mechanism your cat flap will use. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. It will not stop other animals and cats from entering the room, and you could be letting in draughts.
After you've chosen the right cat flap and measured your door or window then it's time to install it. Mark the belly height of the door using a ruler. Use a spirit-level to ensure that the line isn't too low and is straight on the door. Use your spirit level to draw a template of the flap for cats. Next, use your saw to cut out the outline of the door. When you're satisfied with the result, sand the edges and then drill through the pencil marks to create holes for the screws.
Make the Tools
Like all DIY jobs, it's always best to have the proper tools to complete the task. You'll need a cat flap as well as an eraser and tape measure along with a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the type of door or window.
Contact the manufacturer prior to making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal to become damaged. In this case, you'll probably require an entirely new pane of toughened glass instead.
You'll need a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions given by the manufacturer. Use a template to determine the size of hole you'll need.
After you've made the hole, you must sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will prevent any rust or water damage from occurring in the future. Finally, you should apply any sealant that is needed to the rear of the cat flap as well as to the holes in the window or door to keep out rain and wind. When the sealant has dried and dry, you can install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
The installation of a flap will allow your cat to move around whenever it pleases. Most people can install the flap themselves. However, if you want to install it on glass or uPVC type door, you might need a professional.
Look at the instructions included with your cat flap. There is a template drawing. This will provide you with an idea of where holes for the flap have to be made in the door. Note the areas you'll need to drill in using pencil.
After you have mapped out the door's area and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a relatively easy task, but you'll need to be comfortable using the saw. Numerous companies will perform this work for you at a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to do it yourself.
Next, you will need to screw the inner part of the cat flap to the hole in your door. It might be necessary to seal the flap before you do this to ensure it is waterproof and weatherproof. The outer section of your cat flap can be placed on the bolts' tops and then securing them. It is recommended that you test the flap with your cat to ensure that it is working properly and that they are able to move easily through it.