Fitting a Cat Flap

Getting a cat flap fitted into your home could be a major step for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have kittens who require a vet check, there are a lot of options there to choose from.
Installing a cat flap can be intimidating for people who aren't professionals, but, with the right instructions, it's easy to accomplish. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the most important factors.
Choose the Right Door, or Window
There's a wide selection of cat flaps available including some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet going out or entering) and others with high-tech features like microchip door entry systems. It's important to think about how it is easy to teach your cat to use the flap before you purchase and install one.
It is recommended to put the cat flap, depending on the style of your home, inside 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. If possible this will also allow them a way back case they are chased by another cat or by humans intent on harming 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. It's because uPVC or composite doors are available in various thicknesses. This could affect the way holes are cut, and what you fix to.
To avoid costly mistakes It is recommended to consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you're installing the flap to an old wooden door, begin by introduction of your cat to it before you fit it, so that they get used to its shape and size and explore it from all angles.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
You'll need your cat's measurements to ensure that the cat flap you install is a good fit. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is at the right height on your door or window and that it's large enough for them to enter and exit with ease.
To do this, place your pet on their back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Feel for any squishy fat pads which may be visible around their lower back, face, and the limbs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline circus skills.
Alternatively, you can also use your pet's weight to determine the size of the opening you require. If your cat is at or above 5kg in weight for instance an opening of 14 x 12cm flap for your cat is advised.
Measure Your Door or Window
As the name suggests the cat flap is made to be attached to a door and provides the pet with a way to enter or leave as it pleases. The flaps are made of plastic or aluminum and are placed in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that is opened by gently pushing on either side. They are available in locking versions that offer added security, so that your cat is not able to traverse the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also often used in windows. They are easy to be installed, but they need to be placed at a high level as cats and dogs find it difficult to access them. If the window is too high for a cat flap then steps, ramps or purpose constructed stairs can be used to aid the animal in accessing it.
A cat flap could be installed into a brick wall but this is not recommended unless you're experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's essential to ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. Always consult an expert when you need to create a hole for pipes and cables. It is also recommended to wear protective goggles and a dust-proof mask to avoid inhaling any sawdust that is created by cutting into the walls of your house.
Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.
There are numerous cat flaps on the market, and all offer various features. Some have security options such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by unauthorized persons and stop your pet allowing friends or other animals into the home. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to block the elements of moisture and draughts.
There's also a variety of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, whereas others are square or circular. Choosing the right type of cat flap will be determined by the space you have available and the kind of window or door you are fitting it to.
Finally consider cat flap cost for opening your cat flap is likely to have. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is one option and is usually the least expensive. However, it won't stop other pets or cats from entering your home and you could be letting draughts in as well.
Once you have selected the appropriate cat flap and measured the window or door and window, it's now time to put it in place it. Begin by marking the height of the belly on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is exactly on the door and not too low. Utilize your spirit level to draw a sketch of the flap for cats. Then, Our Webpage can use your Jigsaw to cut the door's outline. Once you're happy with the results sand down the edges and drill through the pencil marks to create holes for the screws.
Prepare the Tools
As with all DIY tasks, it's advisable to make sure you have the proper tools for the job. You'll require the cat flap as well as an eraser and tape measure as well as a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the kind of window or door.
If you're installing in 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 it's likely you will need to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.
You'll require an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines provided by the manufacture. Make use of a template to determine the size of hole you'll need.
After you've cut the required hole, you'll need to sand down the edges of the opening to smooth them. This should prevent any rust or water damage from happening in the near future. It is also recommended to seal the holes in your door or window and the back of the cat flap to prevent rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry, you can install your cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to come and go as it pleases, fitting flaps can aid. It's a simple procedure that most people can do by themselves, though you will likely require the assistance of an expert if you're installing the flap on an unglazed door or any other type of uPVC door.
Take a look at the instructions that came with your cat flap. You will find a drawing of the template. This will give an idea of the location where holes need to be drilled to install the flap in the door. Then, mark the places where you must drill using pencil.
After you have mapped out the door's opening then use a jigsaw cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task, but you'll have to be comfortable using a jigsaw. If you are concerned about doing it yourself, there are many companies that can complete this for you at a very low cost.
Then, you can screw the inside part to the hole of your door. You may need to seal it prior to making this move to ensure it remains weather-proof and water resistant. Then, you can put the outer section of the flap on the top of the fixing bolts, and tighten them all together. It is recommended that you test the flap with your cat to make sure that it works correctly and that they are able to get in and out of it.