Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap your home is a fantastic option for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and requires additional security, or you have kittens who require a vet check there are plenty of options there for you.
Installing a cat flap may be intimidating for people who aren't professionals, but, with the right instructions, it's easy to accomplish. The most important thing is planning, preparation and accuracy.
Choose the Right Door or Windows
There are a variety of cat flaps that are available including some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from going out or coming in) and others that have high-tech features like microchip door entry systems. But, it's important to consider how easy it is for your cat to teach to use the flap prior to making a purchase and fit one.
It is recommended to put the cat flap, depending on the style of your home, inside the form of a window that opens to a sheltered garden area. This will help your cat feel secure when entering or leaving your home. This will also enable them to go back inside in the event of being chased by other animals or humans who want to harm them.
It's possible to put a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't the same as fitting one into a wood door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses, which affect how holes are cut and the material you're fixing it to.
If you're installing the flap on glass doors it is recommended that you consult a glazier who specialises in this type of work to avoid any costly mistakes. If you are fitting the flap onto an existing wooden door, you should introduce your cat first to make sure it is familiar with its size and shape.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
You'll need the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap you install is a good fit. This will allow you to ensure that the cat flap is installed at the right height on the door or window, and also that it's large enough for him to get in and exit easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Look for a fat pad that is squishy around the lower back, face or limbs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline circus skills.
You can also use the weight of your pet to determine the size of opening you require. If your cat weighs at or above 5kg in weight, for example, a 14 x 12cm flap for your cat is advised.
Make sure you measure your door or window
This type of cat flap, as its name suggests, is designed to be affixed to the door. It allows your pet to enter and exit at its convenience. They are typically made of aluminum or plastic and rest in the middle of the door with an open door that is opened by pushing lightly on either side. They are available in locking versions that offer added security, so your cat cannot simply walk through the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also often used in windows. They can be easily installed, but they need to be installed at an elevated level since cats and dogs have a difficult time to reach them. If the window is too high to use a cat flap, ramps, steps or specially constructed stairs can be used to aid the animal in accessing it.
A cat flap can also be fitted into a brick wall, however it is not recommended unless you're familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it's important to make sure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. If there are, then a hole needs to be made for them. This is something you should always seek expert advice on. It's also advisable to wear safety goggles and a dust-proof mask to avoid inhaling any sawdust that is created by cutting into the walls of your house.
Choose the right cat flap
There are numerous cat flaps that are available on the market, and they all offer various features. Certain cat flaps come with security features such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry. They also prevent your pet from allowing friends or another animal into the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals that keep out the elements of moisture and draughts.
There are different sizes that are available based on the breed and size of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, while others are square or circular. The kind of cat flap you select will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the kind of door or window you're fixing it to.
Last but not least, think about the opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. It will not stop other animals and cats from entering the room, and you could be letting in drafts.
Once you have selected the appropriate cat flap and measured your windows or doors then it's time to install it. Begin by marking the height of the belly on the door using your ruler. Use a spirit-level to ensure 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 reference. Then, using your jigsaw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you're happy with the results sand down the edges and then drill through the pencil marks to make holes for the screws.
Make the Tools
It is essential to have the right tools available when performing any DIY project. The most important things you'll require are the cat flap itself as well as a tape measure, a good pencil and a spirit level drill, file and the jigsaw (depending on your window or door type).
If you're installing a composite door, you should check with the manufacturer prior to making any alterations since this could affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this instance you'll have to install a new pane of toughened glass instead.
You'll need to use a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines provided by the manufacture. If you can, use an example to determine the size of the hole you'll need to cut.
After you've made the hole, you will have to sand the edges of the opening. This will stop future rust and water damage. Finally, you should apply any sealant that is needed to the back of the cat flap as well as to the holes in the window or door to keep out rain and wind. After the sealant has dried then you can put up your new cat-flap!
Install upvc door panel cat flap
Installing a flap allows your cat to move around whenever it pleases. Most people can put in the flap themselves. However should you wish to install it on a glass or uPVC type door, you might need a professional.
Check out the directions included with your cat flap. You will find a template drawing. This will give an idea of where holes need to be drilled for the flap in the door. Then, mark the areas in which you will have to drill using the pencil.
After you have marked the area on your door, you can use the jigsaw to cut the design for the cat flap. This is a relatively easy task, but you'll require a good understanding of the Jigsaw. If you are concerned 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 in your door. You may have to apply sealant prior to doing this to ensure that it stays watertight and weather resistant. The outer part of your cat flap could be placed on the bolts' tops and then securing them. You must test the cat flap on your cat to ensure that it functions properly and that it allows the cat to go in and out easily.