Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is a great step for any pet owner. There are numerous options for you, no matter if your cat is old and requires additional security or if you have kittens who need to be examined.
Installing a cat flap may be daunting for non-professionals however, with the proper instructions, it's not difficult to complete. The key is preparation, planning and accuracy.
Choose the Right Door or Window
There are a variety of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to stop your pet from going out or inside, and others that have modern features such as microchips or a door entry system. But, it's important to consider how easy your cat is to train to use the flap before you buy and install one.
It is recommended to put the cat flap, depending on the style of your home, inside an opening that leads into a sheltered garden area. This will help your cat feel safe when entering or leaving your home. If you can it will also provide them a way back should they be chased by a cat or by a human intent to hurt them.
It is possible to install the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it's not as easy as putting one in a wood door. This is because uPVC and composite doors come in different thicknesses, which can affect the way holes are cut as well as the materials you're fixing them to.
To avoid costly errors to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended to consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a door with a glass front. If you're fitting the flap to a wooden door it is recommended that you introduce your cat first so that it can become familiar with its dimensions and shape.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
In order to put in a cat flap that's a good fit for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat. This will help you ensure that the flap is the correct height on your window or door and that it's big enough for them to enter and out easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers over their belly. Look for a fat pad that is squishy around the lower back, face or limbs. The extra padding offers your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the acrobatics cats are known for.
You can also take into account the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you require. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg, for example the suggested flap opening size is 14 x 12cm.
Take a measurement of your door or window
The name implies the cat flap is designed to be fixed into an opening and provide the pet with a way to go in or out whenever it wants. They are usually made of plastic or aluminium and simply are placed in the middle of the door. They come with the possibility of a swinging door that opens by pushing lightly on either side. There are locks on some of these flaps that provide extra security, so your cat won't be able to simply walk through from the outside.
A window is another common location for a cat's flap, and they are simple enough to put in, but they usually need to be placed high up as it's difficult for dogs and cats to access them. If the window is too high to use a cat flap, then steps, ramps or purpose built stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it.
Cat flaps can also be fitted to a brick wall, but this is not recommended unless skilled in masonry work as it could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it's essential to make sure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. Always consult an expert when you need to cut a hole in the wall for cables and pipes. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask can allow you to avoid breathing in the sawdust that is created when cutting through your walls.
Choose the right cat flap
There are a variety of cat flaps that are available on the market, and come with different features. Certain cat flap s come with security features, such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition which prevent unauthorised entry. They also prevent your pet from allowing friends or other animals into the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to keep out water and drafts.
There are various sizes to choose from 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 available and the type of door or window you intend to install it on.
Also consider the mechanism to open your cat flap will come with. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. But, it will not keep other animals or cats from entering your home and you could be letting draughts in as well.
It's time to install your cat flap. Start by marking the belly's height on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit-level to ensure 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 flap for cats. Then, you can use your Jigsaw to cut the outline in the door. When you are satisfied with the result finish sanding the edges and drill through the pencil markings to create holes for screws.
Make the Tools
As with all DIY tasks, it's advisable to make sure you have the proper tools for the job. You'll need the cat flap, an eraser and tape measure as well as a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the type of door or window.
If you're installing a composite door, it is recommended to check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes, as this may cause the warranty to be invalidated or break the weathertight seal. In this instance, you'll probably have to install an entirely new pane of toughened glass instead.
For wooden or uPVC doors, you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap using a Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines provided by the manufacturer. Use a template to determine the size of hole you need.
After you've cut the required hole, you'll need to sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop future rust and water damage. You should also seal the holes in your window or door and the back of the cat flap to keep out wind and rain. When the sealant has dried, you're ready to 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 in a glass or uPVC type door, you might need a professional.
Check out the directions included with your cat flap. There is a template drawing. This will provide you with an idea of where the holes for the flap will need to be drilled into the door. Mark the areas you'll need to drill in with the pencil.
After you have mapped out the area in your door then use a jigsaw cut out the shape of the cat flap. It is a relatively simple task, but you'll need to be comfortable using a saw. If you are worried about doing this yourself, there are plenty of companies that can do this for you at a very low cost.
Then, screw the inner part to the hole of your door. It is possible to apply sealant before making this move to ensure it stays watertight and weather resistant. The outer part of your cat flap can be placed on the bolts on top, and then tightened together. It is recommended that you test the flap with your cat to ensure that it functions properly and that they are able to get in and out of it.