Fitting a Cat Flap

Getting a cat flap fitted into your home could be a big step for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have new kittens that require a thorough screening there are plenty of options there to choose from.
Installing a cat flap could be daunting for non-professionals however, with the proper instructions, it's not hard to complete. Planning, preparation and precision are the key to success.
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 stop your pet going out or coming in) and others that have high-tech features like microchip door entry systems. It is 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 is best to place the cat flap, depending on the design of your house, in the form of a window that opens to a garden that is sheltered. This will allow your cat to feel safe when entering or leaving your home. This will also enable them to return inside in the event of being chased by other animals or humans who want to harm them.
It's possible to install the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as easy as putting one in a wood door. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in various thicknesses. This can impact the how holes are cut and the material you put to.
If you're installing the flap inside glass doors, it's recommended that you seek out a glazier that is skilled in such work to avoid costly mistakes. If you're installing the flap to a wooden door, start by the cat with it before you fit it to allow them to become familiar with its shape and size and explore it from every angle.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
To install the right cat flap that's suitable for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's size. This will ensure that the flap is at the right height on your door or window and that it's large enough for them to enter and out easily.
To do this, place your pet on their back and run your fingers gently along their belly. Look for a fat pad that is squishy around the lower back, face or legs. The padding provides your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics that felines are known for.
You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you require. If your cat weighs more than 5Kg, for example the suggested cat flap size is 14 x 12cm.
Make sure you measure your windows or doors
Like the name suggests this kind of cat flap is designed to be affixed to a door and provides the pet with a way to go in or out at any time it wishes. They are usually made of aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door. They come with the possibility of a swinging door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps that provide added security so your cat won't be able to simply walk through from the outside.
Cat flaps are also commonly employed in windows. They can be easily installed, but they have to be placed at a high level as cats and dogs have a difficult time to reach them. If the window is too high for a cat flap, 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 but it is not recommended unless familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the structure of the wall. It is important to make sure there aren't any cables or pipes within the wall before you start. It is recommended to consult a professional if you need to cut a hole in the wall for cables and pipes. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask can help you avoid inhaling the dust that is generated when cutting into your walls.
Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.
There are numerous cat flaps available and all of them offer various features. Some come with security options like magnetic locks or microchips that block entry by unauthorized persons and stop your pet allowing friends or other animals into the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals that keep out the elements of moisture and draughts.
There's also a range of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, while others are square or circular. The kind of cat flap you pick will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the type of window or door you're fitting it to.
The last thing to do is take into consideration the kind of opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. 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 your home and you could be letting draughts in as well.
It's time to put in your cat flap. Start by marking view site… on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit-level to make sure that the line is not too low and that it is straight across the door. Use your spirit level to draw a template of the cat flap. Then, using a jigsaw, cut out the outline of the door. When you are satisfied with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil markings to make holes for screws.
Make sure you have the tools ready
As with any DIY jobs, it's always recommended to have the right tools to complete the task. You'll need a cat flap, an eraser and tape measure as well as a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the kind of window or door.
Consult view site… 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 case, you'll probably require an additional pane of toughened glass instead.
For wooden or uPVC doors, you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap using the Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines given by the manufacturer. Make use of a template to mark the size hole you'll require.
After you've made the hole, you'll have to sand off the edges of the opening. This should prevent any water damage or rust from happening in the future. In the end, you must apply any sealant that is needed to the rear of the cat flap as well as to the holes in the door or window to keep out rain and wind. Once the sealant has dried it is time to install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to come and go whenever it wants, installing flaps can be helpful. This is a simple process that most people can complete themselves, although you will likely require the help of a professional if you are installing the flap in the form of a glass door or another kind of uPVC door.
Look at the instructions that came with the cat flap. You will find a template drawing. This will give you an idea of where the holes for the flap will need to be made in the door. Mark the areas that you'll need to drill with a pencil.
After you've marked the area on your door, you can use the jigsaw to cut the shape for the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task, but you'll have to be comfortable using the saw. If you are worried about doing this yourself, there are many businesses that can handle this for you at a minimal cost.
Then, you can screw the inside part to the hole of your door. It may be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this to keep it weatherproof and watertight. The outer section of your cat flap could be placed on the bolts on top, and then securing them. It is recommended to test the cat flap with your cat to make sure that it works correctly and that they can get in and out of it.