Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap into your home could be a huge step for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and requires extra security, or you have new kittens that need to be vetted, there are a lot of options there to choose from.
It can be intimidating for people who aren't experts in installing a cat flap, but with proper guidelines, it's easy. The most important thing is planning, preparation and precision.
Select the Right Door, or Windows
There are a variety of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to keep your pet from going out or inside, and others that have advanced features like microchips for door entry systems. But, it's important to consider how easy your cat is to train to use the flap prior to making a purchase and install one.
It's best to place the cat flap, based on the design of your home, inside a window that opens into an area of the garden that is protected. This will allow your cat to feel safe when entering or leaving your home. If you can it will also provide them a way back should they be chased by another cat or by humans who are intent to hurt them.
It is possible to install an egress flap inside a uPVC door or glass window however, it's not as simple as putting one in a wooden door. It's because uPVC or composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses. This can affect the way holes are cut, and the material you put into.
If you're installing the flap inside glass doors, it's recommended that you seek out a glazier that is skilled in this kind of work to avoid costly errors. If you're fitting the flap to the door made of wood, start by the cat with it before you fit it so that they can be familiar with its size and shape and explore it from all angles.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
It is important to know the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you install is a perfect fit. This will ensure that the flap is at the right height for your door or window, and that it's big enough for them to enter and exit with ease.
To do this, put your pet on their back and run your fingers gently across their belly. Look for a fat pad that is squishy around the lower back and face, as well as the limbs. The extra padding offers your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics that felines are famous for.
You can also use the weight of your pet to determine the size of opening you require. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg, for example the suggested cat flap opening size is 14 x 12cm.
Take a measurement of your window or door
This kind of cat flap, as the name suggests is designed to be affixed to a door. It lets your pet enter and exit at its convenience. The flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and are located in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that opens by lightly pushing on either side. These flaps are available in locking versions that provide additional security so your cat cannot simply walk through the door from outside.
A window is a common location for a cat flap, and they're easy enough to put in, but they are usually placed high up as it's difficult for dogs and cats to reach them otherwise. If the window is too high to use a cat flap then ramps, steps, or specially constructed stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it.
Cat flaps can also be fitted into a brick wall but it is not recommended unless you're skilled in masonry work as it could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it's essential to ensure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. It is recommended to consult an expert if you have to make a hole for cables and pipes. Wearing protective glasses or a dust mask can ensure that you don't breathe in the dust that is generated when cutting into your walls.
Choose the right cat flap
There are a variety of cat flaps on the market and all of them offer various features. Certain cat flaps come with security features, such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition which prevent unauthorised entry. They also prevent your pet from letting guests or animals to enter the house. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to block out moisture and draughts.
There's also a variety of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular while others are square or circular. The kind of cat flap you pick will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the type of window or door you're fitting it to.
Last but not least, take into consideration the kind of opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. A simple aluminum or plastic swing-out door is one option and is usually the cheapest. It won't prevent other cats and pets from entering, and you could also let in draughts.
It's time to put in your cat flap. Mark the belly height of the door using a ruler. Make use of a spirit-level to make sure the line is not too low and is straight on the door. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, use a jigsaw to cut out the door's outline. When you're satisfied with the results sand down the edges and then drill through the pencil marks to make holes for the screws.
Prepare the Tools
As with any DIY tasks, it's best to have the right tools for the job. You'll need the cat flap along with an eraser and tape measure along with a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the type of door or window.
If you're installing a composite door, you should consult with the manufacturer prior to making any changes, because this could invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this instance it's likely that you'll need to replace the glass with a brand new piece of toughened glass.
You'll require a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions given by the manufacturer. If possible, use a template to help you mark out the dimensions 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 prevent any water damage or rust from happening in the future. Also, you should apply any necessary sealant to the rear of the cat flap, and to the holes in the window or door to block rain and wind. After the sealant has dried it is time to install your new cat-flap!
Install replacement upvc door panels with cat flap
Installing a flap allows your cat to move around whenever it wishes. It's a simple procedure that most people can accomplish themselves, although you will likely need to hire an expert for installing the flap in the form of a glass door or another type of uPVC door.
Begin by studying the instructions provided with your cat flap to find the drawing template. This will give you an idea of where the holes for the flap need to be drilled into the door. Mark the areas you will have to drill with the pencil.
After you have marked the door on your door, you can use the jigsaw to cut the shape for the cat flap. This is a fairly simple job however you'll need be comfortable with the jigsaw. Numerous companies will perform this for you for a reasonable price If you're not sure how to do it yourself.
Then, screw cat flap installation in glass doors near me to the hole in your door. It may be necessary to seal the flap before you do this in order to keep it waterproof and weatherproof. 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 to test the flap with your cat to make sure that it works correctly and that they can get in and out of it.