Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in your home is an excellent option for any pet owner. There are many options available for you, whether your cat is older and requires additional security or if you have kittens who need to be vetted.
Installing a cat flap can be daunting for non-professionals but with the right instructions, it's not hard to do. The most important thing is planning, preparation and precision.
Select the Right Door, or Windows
There are a wide variety of cat flaps to choose from that come with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from leaving or coming in) and others that have high-tech features like microchip door entry systems. But, it's important to consider how easy your cat is to teach to use the flap prior to making a buy and install one.
It is best to place the cat flap, depending on the design of your home, in a window that opens into an area of the garden that is protected. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering and leaving your home. If possible it will also provide them a route back in case they are pursued by a different cat or by humans intent to hurt them.
It's possible to install the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it's not the same as fitting one in a wood door. This is because uPVC and composite doors come in various thicknesses, which can affect the way holes are cut and the materials you're fixing them into.
To avoid costly errors to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended that you consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If you're fitting the flap to the door made of wood, start by introduction of your cat to it before you fit it, so that they get used to its size and shape and explore it from every angle.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
You'll need your cat's measurements to ensure that the cat flap you install is the perfect fit. This will enable you to ensure that your cat flap is placed at the right height on the window or door, and that it is large enough for him to get in and exit easily.
To do this, place your pet on their back and gently rub your fingers along their belly. Feel for any fat pads that are squishy that might be visible around their lower back, face or the limbs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline acrobatics.
You can also use the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you need. If your cat is up to 5Kg in weight, for example an opening of 14 x 12cm flap for your cat is recommended.
Take a measurement of your windows or doors
This kind of cat flap, as its name suggests, is made to be fitted into 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. They are available with locking options which provide extra security so that your cat is not able to walk through the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also frequently employed in windows. They can be easily installed, however they have to be installed at an elevated level since cats and dogs have a difficult time to access them. If the window isn't high enough to use a cat's flap, you can use ramps, steps, or specially designed stairs to help the animal reach it.
A cat flap could also be fitted to a brick wall, but it is not recommended unless you are experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the wall's structure. It's important to check that there aren't any cables or pipes within the wall before you begin. If there are, a hole needs to be made for them. This is something that you should always seek expert advice on. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask can allow you to avoid breathing in the dust that is generated when you cut into your walls.
Choose the right cat flap
There are a variety of cat flaps on the market and they all have different features. Some flaps are equipped with security features, such as microchip recognition or magnetic locks that prevent unauthorized entry. They also stop your pet from letting friends or another animal into the home. Some have weatherproof seals and insulation to keep out moisture and draughts.
There is also a choice of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, whereas others are square or circular. The kind of cat flap you choose will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the type of window or door you're installing it to.
Also, think about the opening mechanism that your cat flap will have. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is an alternative and is usually the cheapest. It won't stop other animals and cats from entering however, and you could be letting in draughts.
Once you've selected the correct cat flap and measured your door or window and window, it's now time to put it in place it. Determine 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. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, using the Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. Once you are happy with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil lines to create holes for screws.
Prepare the Tools
It is essential to have the right tools available when performing any DIY project. You'll require the cat flap along with tape measure and pencil along with a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the kind of door or window.
If you're installing a composite door, it is recommended to consult with the manufacturer before making any alterations as this may affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In related that you'll have to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.
You'll require an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions provided by the manufacture. Make use of a template to determine the size of hole you'll require.
After you've made the hole, you will need to sand the edges of the opening. This should prevent any water damage or rust from occurring in the future. In the end, you must apply any sealant you require to the rear of the cat flap, and to the holes in the door or window to block the elements of wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry and dry, you can install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
Fitting a flap will allow your cat to come and go whenever it wishes. The majority of people can install the flap by themselves. However, if you want to install it in a glass or uPVC type door, you might need an expert.
Look at the instructions that came 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. Then, mark the areas where you must drill using pencil.
After you have marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw to cut the design for the cat flap. This is a relatively easy task, but you'll have to be comfortable using a 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, you can screw the inside part to the hole of your door. You may have to apply sealant before doing this to ensure it is weather and water resistant. The outer section of your cat flap could be placed on the bolts on top, and then tacked together. It is recommended to test the flap using your cat to make sure that it is working properly and that they can enter and leave easily through it.