Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in your home is a great step for any pet owner. There are a variety of options for you, no matter if your cat is older and needs extra security, or you have kittens that require to be checked.
Installing a cat flap could be a daunting task for novices, but, with the right instructions, it's not hard to do. Planning, preparation and precision are the key to success.
Select the Right Door or Window
There are a variety of cat flaps to choose from, some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from going out or coming in) and others that have high-tech features such as microchips for door entry systems. However, it's important to think about how easy your cat is to train to use the flap prior to making a purchase and fit one.
It's best to place the cat flap, based on the style of your house, in an opening that leads into an area of the garden that is protected. This will allow your cat to feel safe when entering or leaving your home. This will also allow them to get back inside in the event of being chased by other animals or human who wants to hurt them.
It is possible to install a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it's not as easy as putting one on a wooden door. This is because uPVC and composite doors are available in various thicknesses, which affect how holes are cut and the materials you're fixing them to.
If you're installing the flap in glass doors it is recommended to find a glazier who is experienced in this kind of work to avoid any costly errors. If you're installing the flap onto an existing wooden door you must introduce your cat to it first to ensure that it becomes familiar with its size and shape.
Find out the size of your cat's belly
In order to put in the right cat flap that's the right size for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat's height. This will help you ensure that your cat flap is placed at the right height on the door or window and that it's big enough for him to get in and out easily.
To do this, put your pet on their back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Look for any fat pads that are squishy that might be visible around their lower back, face or the limbs. The extra padding offers your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics that felines are known for.
Alternatively, you can also use your pet's weight to determine the size of an opening you need. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg in weight for instance, a 14 x 12cm flap for the cat is recommended.
Make sure you measure your door or window
This type of cat flap, as the name suggests, is designed to be installed into a door. It lets your pet enter and exit at its convenience. They are usually made of aluminum or plastic and rest in the middle of the door. They have an open door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps that offer added security so your cat isn't able to walk through from the outside.
Cat flaps are also frequently used on windows. They are able to be easily installed, however they have to be placed at an elevated level since cats and dogs have a difficult time to access them. If the window is not high enough to use the flap for cats, you can use steps, ramps or stairs that are specially designed to help the animal reach it.
It is possible to install the cat flap onto the brick wall, however it is not recommended for those who are not experienced in brickwork. This could weaken the structure of the wall. It's important to check that there aren't any cables and pipes inside the wall before you start. It is recommended to consult an expert when you need to cut a hole in the wall for pipes or cables. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask will allow you to avoid breathing in the sawdust created when cutting into your walls.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are a variety of cat flaps on the market and all of them offer different features. Some come with security options such as magnetic locks or microchips that prevent unauthorized entry and also prevent your pet from allowing friends or other animals into the home. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals that keep out draughts and moisture.
There's also a range of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. cat flap installation cost are rectangular, while others are square or circular. The kind of cat flap you pick will depend on the size of the opening and the kind of door or window you're fitting it to.
Last but not least, consider the type of opening mechanism your cat flap will use. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. It will not stop other cats and pets from entering the room, and you could be letting in draughts.
Once you've selected the right cat flap and measured the door or window, it's time to fit it. Start by marking the belly height on the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is straight on the door and not too low. Use upvc door panel cat flap to draw a sketch of the cat flap. Then, using a jigsaw, cut out the outline of the door. When you're happy with the results sand down the edges and then drill through the pencil marks to make holes for the screws.
Make sure you have the tools ready
Like all DIY jobs, it's always best to have the appropriate tools to complete the task. You'll need the cat flap as well as an eraser and tape measure along with a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the type of window or door.
Contact the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a door made of composite. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal to become broken. In this case you'll have to install an entirely new pane of toughened glass instead.
For wooden or uPVC doors you'll need to cut out the shape of your cat flap using a jigsaw and follow the instructions given by the manufacturer. If possible, you can use a template to help you mark out the dimensions of the hole you have to cut.
After you've made the hole, you'll need to smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop future rust and water damage. It is also recommended to seal the holes in your window or door and the side of the flap to block rain and wind. Once the sealant has dried then you can put up your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
Installing a flap allows your cat to move around whenever it pleases. The majority of people can install the flap on their own. However, if you want to install it in glass or uPVC type door, you might need a professional.
Begin by studying the instructions included with your cat flap to find the drawing template. This will provide you with an idea of where holes for the flap have to be made in the door. Mark the areas you will need to drill into with the pencil.
After you've marked the area in your door and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the design of the cat flap. It is a relatively simple task, but you'll need to be comfortable using the Jigsaw. If you are concerned about doing this yourself, there are a lot 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 seal the flap before you do this, in order to ensure it is waterproof and weatherproof. The outer part of your cat flap may be placed on top of the bolts, and then securing them. It is recommended to test the flap with your cat to ensure that it functions properly and that they can move easily through it.