Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap into your home could be a big step for any pet owner. There are a variety of options for you, no matter if your cat is old and requires additional security or you have kittens that need to be examined.
It can be a bit daunting for people who aren't experts in installing the cat flap, but with proper guidelines, it's easy. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and precision.
Select the Right Door, or Windows
There's a wide selection of cat flaps available, some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from going out or entering) and others with high-tech features such as microchips for door entry systems. It's important to think about how it is easy to train your cat to use the flap before you purchase and install one.
It's best to place the cat flap, depending on the design of your home, inside a window that opens into a sheltered garden area. This will help your cat feel secure when entering and leaving your home. If possible, this will also give them a route back in should they get pursued by a different cat or by humans who are intent to harm them.
It is possible to install a cat flap in a uPVC door or a glass window however it's not as easy as fitting one into a wooden door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses, which affect the way holes are cut as well as the material you're fixing it into.
To avoid costly mistakes to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended to consult an expert glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If upvc door panel with cat flap are fitting the flap to a wooden door, you should introduce your cat first to ensure that it becomes 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 choose to install is a perfect fit. This will allow you to make sure that the flap is placed at the correct height on the window or door, and also that it's large enough to allow him to enter and exit easily.
To do this, lay your pet on their back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Check for any fat pads that are squishy which may be visible around their lower back, face and the limbs. The extra padding offers your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics felines are famous for.
Alternatively, you can also make use of your pet's weight to gauge how big an opening you'll need. If your cat weighs at or over 5kg for instance an opening of 14 x 12cm flap for the cat is recommended.
Take a measurement of your door or window
Like the name suggests this kind of cat flap is designed to be affixed to an opening and provide a way for your pet to leave or enter as it pleases. They are usually made of plastic or aluminium and simply are placed in the middle of the door with the possibility of a swinging door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. They can be locked which provide extra security so your cat cannot simply walk through the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also frequently used in windows. They can be easily installed, but they need to be set at an elevated level since cats and dogs have a difficult time to reach them. If the window is too high to be used as a cat flap then ramps, steps or specially built stairs can be utilized to help the animal access it.
It is possible to put the cat flap onto brick walls, however it is not recommended for those who aren't experienced in the masonry industry. This could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's important to ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. If there are, then an opening must be made for them. This is something that you should always seek professional advice on. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask will ensure that you don't breathe in the sawdust that is created when you cut into your walls.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are many different cat flaps available and they all have different features. Some have security options such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry and also restrict your pet from letting friends or other animals into the home. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to block out moisture and draughts.
There are various sizes to choose from based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular while others are circular or square. Selecting the best cat flap will be dictated by the space available and the kind of door or window you want to attach it to.
The last thing to do is think about the opening mechanism your cat flap will use. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. However, it will not keep other animals or cats from entering your home and you could be letting draughts in too.
It's time to install your cat flap. Start by marking the height of the belly on the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is straight against the door and not too low. Utilize your spirit level to draw a sketch of the cat flap. Then, you can use your saw to cut out the door's outline. Once you're happy with the results sand down the edges and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for the screws.
Prepare the Tools
It's important to have the right tools available when performing any DIY project. The most essential things you'll need are the cat flap, a tape measure and a decent pencil and a spirit level a file, drill and the jigsaw (depending on the door or window type).
Contact the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal damaged. In this case you'll likely need to fit an additional pane of toughened glass instead.
For wooden or uPVC doors you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap using the Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to mark out the size hole you'll need.
After you've made the hole, you will need to sand the edges of the opening. This should prevent any rust or water damage from occurring in the future. In the end, you must apply any sealant you require to the rear of the cat flap as well as to the holes in the window or door to keep out the elements of wind and rain. After the sealant has dried and dry, you can install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
Installing a flap allows your cat to move around whenever it wishes. Most people can put in the flap themselves. However when you plan to put it in glass or uPVC type door, you may need an expert.
Check out the directions that came with your cat flap. You will find a drawing of the template. This will provide you with an idea of where holes for the flap have to be drilled in the door. Mark the areas you'll have to drill using pencil.
After you've marked the area in your door, use a jigsaw to cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a relatively easy task, but you'll have to be comfortable using a jigsaw. Many companies will complete this for you at a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to take on the task yourself.
Next, you will need to screw the inner part of the flap onto the door's hole. It is possible to apply sealant prior to making this move to ensure it stays watertight and weather resistant. The outer part of your cat flap may be placed on the bolts on top, and then securing them. You should test the cat flap on your cat to make sure that it functions properly and that it allows the cat to go in and out easily.