Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap your home is a fantastic step for any pet owner. Whether cat flap cost near me is old and needs extra security or you have a new kitten that require a thorough screening there are plenty of options out there for you.
Installing a cat flap could be daunting for non-professionals but, with the right instructions, it's easy to do. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and precision.
Select the Right Door or Windows
There are a variety of cat flaps, some with locks that can be used to keep your pet from leaving or in and others with high tech features like microchip door entry system. It is important to consider how it is easy to teach your cat to use the flap, before you buy and install one.
Based on the style of your house It is recommended to situate the cat flap in an opening or window that opens out into an area of protection in the garden, so that your cat is secure when going into and out of the house. If possible, this will also give them a way back should they get chased by another cat or by a human intent on harming them.
It is possible to install a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it's not as simple as installing one on a wooden door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors are available in different thicknesses, which can affect the way holes are cut and the material you're fixing it to.
To avoid costly errors to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended to consult an expert glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you're fitting the flap to the door made of wood, start by introducing your cat to it before you fit it so that they can be familiar with its shape and size and explore it from every angle.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
It is important to know the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you put in is the perfect fit. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is at the right height on your window or door and that it's big enough to allow them to get in and exit with ease.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Feel for any squishy fat pads which may be visible around their lower back, face, and the limbs. The extra padding offers your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics felines are famous for.
You can also take into account the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you need. If your cat weighs at or above 5kg in weight for instance, a 14 x 12cm flap for the cat is recommended.
Make sure you measure your door or window
The name implies, this type of cat flap is designed to be affixed to an opening and provide an opportunity for your pet 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 with an open door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. There are locks on some of these flaps that offer added security so your cat isn't able to traverse through the door from outside.
A window is another popular location for a cat's flap and these are easy enough to fit, although they often need to be located high enough as it's difficult for dogs and cats to access them. If the window isn't sufficient to accommodate the flap for cats, you can make use of ramps, steps, or specially designed stairs to assist the animal in reaching it.
It is possible to install a cat flap into brick walls, however it is not recommended for those who aren't familiar with the masonry industry. This could weaken the wall's structure. It's important to check that there aren't any cables and pipes in the wall prior to you begin. If there are, a hole needs to be made for them. This is something you should always seek professional advice on. It is also recommended to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust protection mask to avoid inhaling any sawdust generated by cutting through the walls of your home.
Choose the right cat flap
There are numerous cat flaps that are available on the market, and they have various features. Some flaps are equipped with security features, such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition which prevent unauthorised entry. They also prevent your pet from letting friends or another animal into the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to keep out the elements of moisture and draughts.
There's also a variety of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, while others are circular or square. Choosing the right type of cat flap will be determined by the space you have available as well as the type of door or window you want to attach it to.
Also, think about the mechanism for opening your cat flap is likely to have. The most affordable option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It won't prevent other animals and cats from entering the room, and you could let in draughts.
It's time to install your cat flap. Start by marking the belly height on the door with your ruler. Make use of a spirit-level to ensure that the line is not too low and that it is straight across the door. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, you can use your saw to cut out the outline of the door. When you're happy with the results sand down the edges and then drill through the pencil lines to create holes for the screws.
Prepare the Tools
As with all DIY tasks, it's recommended to have the appropriate tools for the job. You'll need a cat flap as well as a pencil and tape measure, a spirit-level, a drill and a jigsaw depending on the type of window or door.
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 instance you'll likely need to fit a new pane of toughened glass instead.
You'll require an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions provided by the manufacture. Use a template if possible to mark out the size hole you require.
After you've cut the required hole, you'll need to smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This should prevent any rust or water damage from happening in the future. It is also recommended to cover the holes in your door or window and the back of the flap to keep out wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry, you can install your new cat-flap!
Install the Flap
Fitting a flap will allow your cat to come and go whenever it pleases. The majority of people can install the flap by themselves. However should you wish to put it in glass or uPVC type door, you may need a professional.
Check out the directions that came with your cat flap. There is an illustration of the template. This will give an idea of the location where holes need to be drilled to install the flap in the door. Mark the areas you will need to drill in with a pencil.
After you've marked the area in your door then use a jigsaw cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a relatively simple job, but you'll need to be comfortable using the jigsaw. If you are worried about doing this yourself, there are a lot of businesses that can handle this for you at a low cost.
The next step is to attach the inside of the cat flap to the door's hole. You may have to seal it prior to doing this to ensure that it is weather and water resistant. Then, you can put the outer section of the cat flap on top of the fixing bolts and tighten them all together. You must test the cat flap on your cat to confirm that it is working correctly and that it allows them to exit and enter easily.