Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap your home is a great option for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and needs extra security or you have new kittens who require a vet check there are plenty of options out there for you.
Installing a cat flap can be intimidating for people who aren't professionals, but, with the right instructions, it's easy to do. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the keys.
Choose the Right Door, or Window
There are many different types of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to prevent your pet from leaving or in, while others have modern features such as microchips or a door entry system. It's important to think about how it is easy to teach your cat how to use the flap before you buy and install one.
It's best to place the cat flap, based on the design of your home, in an opening that leads into an area of the garden that is protected. This will help your cat feel safe when entering or leaving your home. This will also enable them to get back inside if they are chased by other animals or human beings who wish to harm them.
It is possible to install a cat flap in the form of a uPVC door or a glass window however it's not as straightforward as fitting one into the door made of wood. This is because uPVC or composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses. This can affect the method of cutting holes, and what you fix into.
To avoid costly errors It is recommended that you consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If you're fitting the flap onto the door made of wood, you should introduce your cat to it at first to make sure it is familiar with its size and shape.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
To install the right cat flap that's a good fit for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's size. This will enable you to ensure that your cat flap is placed at the correct height on the door or window and that it is large enough to allow him to enter and leave easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers along their belly. Feel for any squishy fat pads - these might be visible around their lower back, face or the limbs. cat flap double glazing gives your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics that felines are famous for.
You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you need. If your cat is up to 5Kg in weight, for example, a 14 x 12cm flap for your cat is recommended.
Take a measurement of your door or window
This type of cat flap, as its name suggests is designed to be installed into a door. It allows your pet to move in and out at their convenience. They are usually made from plastic or aluminium and simply are placed in the middle of the door with the possibility of a swinging door that opens by pushing lightly on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps that provide additional security to ensure that your cat can't simply enter the door from the outside.
A window is another popular location for a cat flap, and they are simple enough to install, though they usually need to be located high enough as it's difficult for dogs and cats to access them. If the window isn't sufficient in height to be used as a cat's flap, you can opt for ramps, steps, or stairs that are specially designed to assist the animal in reaching it.
It is possible to put the cat flap onto the brick wall, however it is not recommended for people who are not experienced in brickwork. This could cause the wall to weaken. Before you begin, it's essential to ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. If they are, a hole needs to be created for them and this is something that you should always seek professional advice on. It's also advisable to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust mask to prevent inhaling any of the sawdust created by cutting into your home's walls.
Choose the right cat flap
There are many different cat flaps on the market and they all have different features. Some come with security options such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition to stop unauthorized entry and stop your pet allowing guests or other animals to enter the home. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals that keep out the elements of moisture and draughts.
There is also a choice of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, while others are circular or square. Choosing the right type of cat flap is determined by the space you have available and the kind of window or door you want to attach it to.
Lastly think about the opening mechanism that your cat flap is likely to have. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It won't prevent other pets and cats from entering, and you could also be letting in draughts.
It's time to install your cat flap. Make a mark on the belly of the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is straight on the door and not too low. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, you can use your Jigsaw to cut the outline in the door. Once you're happy with the results sand down the edges and drill through the pencil lines to create holes for the screws.
Make sure you have the tools ready
As with all DIY jobs, it's always advisable to make sure you have the proper tools for the job. You'll need a 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.
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 be damaged. In this case, it's likely that you will need to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.
For wooden or uPVC doors will require cutting out the design of your cat flap using a Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. If possible, you can use an outline to help determine the size of the hole you will need to cut.
After you've cut the required hole, you should then sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop any rust or water damage from occurring in the future. It is also recommended to cover the holes in your door or window and the back of the cat flap to keep out rain and wind. After the sealant has dried then you're now ready to put in your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
The installation of a flap will allow your cat to move around whenever it wishes. The majority of people can install the flap by themselves. However when you plan to put it in the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you might need an expert.
Look at the instructions included with your cat flap. You will find a template drawing. 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've marked the door's area and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a relatively easy job, but you'll need to be comfortable using a jigsaw. Many companies will do this for you for a reasonable price if you are hesitant to take on the task yourself.
Next, you will need to attach the inside of the flap onto the door's hole. cat flap double glazing may have to apply sealant before doing this to ensure that it stays watertight and weather resistant. The outside of your cat flap may be placed on top of the bolts, and then tacked together. It is recommended that you test the cat flap with your cat to ensure that it functions properly and that they can enter and leave easily through it.