Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is a great option for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and needs extra security or you have kittens that need to be vetted, there are plenty of options there for you.
It can be difficult for people who aren't experts in installing the cat flap, but with the proper instructions, it's simple. The most important thing is planning, preparation and precision.
Choose the Right Door or Window
There are a variety of cat flaps, including some with locks that can be used to prevent your pet from getting out or inside, and others that have advanced features like microchips for door entry systems. It is important to think about the ease of your cat to train to use the flap prior to making a buy and install one.
It is best to place the cat flap, based on the design of your house, in an opening that leads into a garden that is sheltered. This will help your cat feel secure when entering and leaving your home. This will also enable them to get back inside if they're chased by another animal or humans who want to harm them.
It's possible to install a cat-flap inside 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, and this can impact how holes are cut and the material you're fixing it to.
To avoid costly errors to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended to consult a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If you're installing the flap to the door made of wood, start by the cat with it before you fit it to allow them to 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 ensure that the cat flap you put in is a good fit. back door with cat flap fitted will allow you to make sure that the flap is placed at the right height on the door or window and also that it's large enough for him to enter and out easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers across their belly. Look for a fat pad that is squishy around the lower back and face, as well as the limbs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline Acrobatics.
You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you need. If your cat weighs at or above 5kg in weight, for example an opening of 14 x 12cm cat flap opening is recommended.
Take a measurement of your window or door
The name implies the cat flap is designed to be fixed into an opening and provide a way for your pet to enter or leave as it pleases. They are usually made from plastic or aluminium and simply sit in the centre of the door. They come with the possibility of a swinging door that opens by pushing lightly on either side. These flaps can be locked that offer added security, so your cat cannot simply enter the door from outside.
A window is another common location for a cat flap, and they're easy enough to install, though they usually need to be set up high as it is difficult for cats and dogs to reach them otherwise. If the window isn't high enough to use a cat's flap, you can use ramps, steps or stairs that are specially designed to help the animal reach it.
It is possible to install an egress into brick walls, however it is not recommended for those who aren't experienced in the masonry industry. This could weaken the structure of the wall. It is essential to ensure that there aren't any cables or pipes inside the wall before you start. If there are, a hole needs to be made for them. This is something that you should always seek professional advice on. It's also advisable to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust protection mask to avoid breathing in any of the sawdust created by cutting holes in the walls of your house.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are a variety of cat flaps available on the market, and come with different features. Some cat flaps have security features, such as magnetic locks or microchips that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also prevent your pet from letting guests or another animal into the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to keep out water and drafts.
There are various sizes that are available based on the breed and size of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, whereas others are circular or square. Choosing the right type of cat flap is determined by the space you have available and the type of door or window you intend to install it on.
Last but not least, take into consideration the kind of opening mechanism your cat flap will use. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. But, it will not stop other pets or cats from gaining access and you could be letting draughts in too.
After you've chosen the correct cat flap and measured the door or window, it's time to fit it. Make a mark on the belly of the door using a ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is straight on the door and not too low. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, using your Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. Once you're happy with the results sand down the edges and then drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.
Make sure you have the tools ready
Like all DIY jobs, it's always best to have the right tools for the job. You'll require the cat flap, a pencil and tape measure along with a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the kind of door or window.
Consult the manufacturer before making any changes to a door made of composite. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to become damaged. In this case, you'll probably need to fit a new pane of toughened glass instead.
For wooden or uPVC doors will require cutting out the shape of your cat flap with the Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines provided by the manufacturer. Use a template to determine the size of hole you'll need.
After you've made the hole, you must sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop future rust and water damage. Also, 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 block the elements of wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry, you can install your cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to move around at will, installing flaps can be helpful. This is a simple process that most people can accomplish by themselves, though you'll likely require the help of an expert for installing the flap in the form of a glass door or another type of uPVC door.
Start by looking at the instructions that come with your cat flap to find the template drawing. This will provide you with an idea of where holes for the flap have to be drilled in the door. Mark the areas you will need to drill into using pencil.
After you have marked the door on your door, use the jigsaw to cut the shape for the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task, but you'll need to be comfortable with a saw. Many companies will do this task for you at a reasonable cost if you are hesitant to tackle it yourself.
Then, screw the inner part of the door to the hole in your door. You may need to apply sealant before doing this to ensure that it stays watertight and weather resistant. The outside of your cat flap may be placed on the bolts on top, and then tightened together. You should test the flap on your cat to make sure that it is working correctly and allows them to exit and enter easily.