Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is an excellent option for any pet owner. There are a variety of options to you, regardless of whether your cat is older and requires extra security or if you have kittens who need to be checked.
Installing a cat flap can be a daunting task for novices, but with the right instructions, it's not hard to accomplish. Planning, preparation and precision are the key to success.
Select the Right Door or Windows
There's a wide selection of cat flaps to choose from, some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from leaving or coming in) and others with high-tech features such as microchips for door entry systems. It is important to consider how it is easy to train your cat to use the flap before you buy and install one.
Based on the style of your home It is recommended to situate the cat flap inside the form of a door or window that opens onto an area of protection in the garden, so that your cat is secure when entering and leaving the home. This will also allow them to return inside in the event of being pursued by a pet or human who wants to hurt them.
You can put a cat flap in the case of a uPVC door or glass window, but 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 different thicknesses, which affect how holes are cut and what you're fixing to.
If you're installing the flap in a glass door, it's recommended that you seek out a glazier that is skilled in such work to avoid costly errors. If you're fitting the flap to an old wooden door, begin by introduction of your cat to it prior to fitting it to allow them to get used to its size and shape and explore it from all angles.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
You'll need your cat's measurements to make sure that the cat flap you install is the perfect fit. This will enable you to ensure that your cat flap is installed at the right height on the door or window, and that it is large enough for him to get in and exit easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers over their belly. Look for any fat pads that are squishy that might be visible around their lower back, face and the limbs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline circus skills.
You can also use your pet's weight to determine the size of the opening you need. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg in weight, for example, a 14 x 12cm cat flap opening is recommended.
Make sure you measure your door or window
As the name suggests, this type of cat flap is made to be attached to an opening and provide an opportunity for your pet to go in or out whenever it wants. These flaps are constructed of aluminum or plastic and sit in the middle of the door. They have a two-way swinging opening that is opened by gently pushing on either side. They are available in locking versions that provide additional security which means that your cat can't traverse the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also often used on windows. They are easy to be installed, but they need to be installed at a height where cats and dogs find it difficult to get them. If the window is too high to use a cat flap, ramps, steps, or specially constructed stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it.
A cat flap could also be fitted to a brick wall, but this is not recommended unless experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the structure of the wall. It's important to check that there aren't any cables or pipes in the wall prior to you begin. If there are, then a hole needs to be created for them and this is something that you should always seek professional advice on. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask can help you avoid inhaling the dust that is generated when you cut into your walls.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are numerous cat flaps available and all of them offer various features. Certain cat flaps come with security features, such as magnetic locks or microchips which prevent unauthorised entry. They also stop your pet from allowing friends or animals to enter the home. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to block the elements of moisture and draughts.
There are different sizes to choose from based on the breed and size of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, while others are square or circular. The type 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.
The last thing to do is think about the opening mechanism your cat flap will use. The cheapest option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. However, it will not prevent other cats or pets from entering and you may be letting draughts in as well.
It's time to put in your cat flap. Mark the belly height of the door using a ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is straight against the door and not too low. Draw a template of 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 are happy with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for screws.
Make the Tools
It's essential to have the right tools available when doing any DIY project. You'll require the cat flap, tape measure and pencil as well as a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the type of window or door.
If you're installing in a composite door, check with the manufacturer prior to making any alterations since this could cause the warranty to be invalidated or break the weathertight seal. In this instance, it's likely that you'll have to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass.
You'll need a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines provided by the manufacture. If Full Write-up , use an example to mark out the size of hole you'll have to cut.
After you have cut the hole, you'll have to sand the edges of the opening. This will stop the possibility of water damage and rust. You should also seal the holes in your door or window and the back of the cat flap to keep out wind and rain. After the sealant has dried, you can install your cat flap!
Install the Flap
The installation of a flap will allow your cat to move around whenever it wants. It's a simple procedure that most people can complete by themselves, though you may require the help of an expert if you're installing the flap on the form of a glass door or another kind of uPVC door.
Check out the directions included with your cat flap. You will find a template drawing. This will give you an idea of where the holes for the flap have to be drilled in the door. Then, mark the places that you'll have to drill using pencil.
After you've marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw and cut out the the cat flap. This is a relatively easy task, but you will require a good understanding of a Jigsaw. Many companies will do this work for you at a reasonable cost if you are hesitant to do it yourself.
Then, screw the inner part to the hole in your door. You may need to apply sealant before making this move to ensure it remains weather-proof and water resistant. Then, you can put the outer part of the cat flap on top of the fixing bolts, and tighten them all. It is recommended that you test the cat flap with your cat to make sure that it is working properly and that they are able to enter and leave easily through it.