Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap your home is an excellent step for any pet owner. There are a variety of options for you, no matter if your cat is older and needs extra security, or you have kittens that need to be vetted.
Installing a cat flap could be intimidating for people who aren't professionals, however, with the proper instructions, it's not difficult to accomplish. The most important thing is planning, preparation and precision.
Select the Right Door or Window
There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to keep your pet from going out or in and others with advanced features like microchips for door entry system. It is important to consider how it is easy to teach your cat to use the flap, before you purchase and install one.
It is recommended to put the cat flap, based on the design of your home, in a window that opens into an area of the garden that is protected. This will help your cat feel secure when entering and leaving your home. If possible this will also allow them a route back in should they be pursued by a different cat or by humans who are intent to hurt them.
It's possible to put a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as easy as putting one on a wooden door. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in different thicknesses. This can impact the method of cutting holes, and the material you put to.
To avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended that you consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a door with a glass front. If you're fitting the flap on the door made of wood, start by introduction of your cat to it before you fit it to allow them to get used to its shape and size, and explore it from every angle.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
To install an appropriate cat flap that is the right size for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is the correct height on your window or door and that it's big enough to allow them to enter and out easily.
To do this, put your pet on their back and gently rub your fingers across their belly. Look for any squishy fat pads that could be visible on their lower back, face and limbs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline circus skills.
Alternately, you could use your pet's weight to determine the size of an opening you'll need. If your cat is at or above 5kg in weight, for example an opening of 14 x 12cm flap for the cat is advised.
Measure your window or door
The name implies this kind of cat flap is designed to be affixed to an opening and provide a way for your pet to enter or leave at any time it wishes. They are usually made from plastic or aluminium and simply are placed in the middle of the door. They come with a two-way swinging door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. There are cat flap install on some of these flaps that offer added security so your cat won't be able to simply enter the door from the outside.
Cat flaps are also frequently used on windows. They can be easily installed, but they need to be placed at a high level as cats and dogs find it difficult to get them. If the window isn't sufficient to accommodate a cat's flap, you can opt for steps, ramps or stairs that are specially designed to help the animal reach it.
It is possible to insert a cat flap into brick walls, however it is not recommended for those who aren't experienced in the masonry industry. This could cause the wall to weaken. It is important to make sure there aren't any cables and pipes inside the wall before you start. Always consult an expert if you have to cut a hole in the wall for pipes and cables. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask can ensure that you don't breathe in the dust that is generated when cutting into your walls.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are a variety of cat flaps available and each one comes with different features. Certain cat flaps come with security features such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry. They also keep your pet from letting friends or other animals into the home. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to keep out draughts and moisture.
There are various sizes that are available based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, whereas others are circular or square. The best type of cat flap will be determined by the space available and the kind of window or door you want to attach it to.
The last thing to do is consider the type of opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. A simple aluminum or plastic swing-out door is an alternative and is usually the cheapest. But, it will not prevent other cats or pets from entering your home and you could let draughts through too.
Once you've selected the appropriate cat flap and measured the windows or doors then it's time to install it. Begin by marking the belly's height on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit-level to make sure that the line is not too low and is straight on the door. Create a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, use a jigsaw to cut out the outline of the door. Once you are satisfied with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil lines to create holes for screws.
Prepare the Tools
It's essential to have the right tools available when undertaking any DIY project. You'll need 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 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 instance it's likely you'll have to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass.
You'll need a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the instructions given by the manufacturer. If possible, you can use an example to identify the size of the hole you will need to cut.
After you've made the hole, you'll have to sand the edges of the opening. This will stop any water damage or rust from happening in the future. Also, 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 block the elements of wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry it is time to install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to go and come whenever it wants, installing a flap can help. Most people can put in the flap by themselves. However, if you want to install it in a glass or uPVC type door, you may require a professional.
Take a look at the instructions included with your cat flap. There is an illustration of the template. This will give you an idea of where holes for the flap need to be drilled in the door. Mark the areas you will need to drill in with a pencil.
After you have 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 will require a good understanding of a jigsaw. Numerous companies will perform this task for you at a reasonable cost in case you're hesitant to take on the task yourself.
Then, attach the outer part to the hole in your door. It is possible to apply sealant prior to making this move to ensure it remains weather-proof and water resistant. Then, you can put the outer portion of the flap on top of the fixing bolts and then tighten the bolts all together. It is recommended that you test the flap with your cat to ensure that it works correctly and that they are able to enter and leave easily through it.