Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in your home is a great step for any pet owner. If your cat is old and needs extra security or you have new kittens that require a thorough screening there are plenty of options out there to choose from.
It can be a bit daunting for those who aren't professionals to put in an animal flap, but with proper instructions, it's simple. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the key to success.
Select the Right Door, or Windows
There are a wide 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 with high-tech features like microchip door entry systems. It is important to consider how easy it will be to teach your cat how to use the flap, before you purchase and install one.
It's best to place the cat flap, depending on the design of your house, in the form of a window that opens to a sheltered garden area. This will help your cat feel safe when entering or leaving your home. This will also allow them to return inside in the event of being chased by other animals or humans who want to harm them.
It's possible to install a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it's not as easy as putting one into a wood door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors are available in a variety of thicknesses, and this can impact the way holes are cut and the materials you're fixing them into.
If you're installing the flap inside a glass door it is recommended to seek out a glazier that is skilled in this type of work to avoid any costly errors. If you're fitting the flap on the door made of wood, start by introducing your cat to it before you fit it, so that they be familiar with its shape and size and explore it from all angles.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
To install a cat flap that's suitable for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat. This will enable you to ensure that the cat flap is installed at the correct height on the window or door, and that it is large enough for him to get in and out easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Look for any squishy fat pads - these may be visible around their lower back, face and the limbs. The padding gives your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics felines are known for.
Alternatively, you can also make use of your pet's weight to gauge how big an opening you need. If your cat weighs 5Kg, for example, the suggested cat flap opening size is 14 x 12cm.
Make sure you measure your door or window
This kind of cat flap, as the name suggests, is designed to be affixed to a door. It lets your pet enter and exit at its convenience. They are typically made of plastic or aluminium and simply are placed in the middle of the door with a two-way swinging door that opens by pressing lightly on either side. They are available in locking versions that provide additional security so your cat cannot simply traverse the door from outside.
A window is another common location for a cat's flap, and they're easy enough to put in, but they often need to be set up high as it is difficult for dogs and cats to reach them otherwise. If the window is not high enough to use a cat's flap, you can make use of ramps, steps or specially designed stairs to help the animal reach it.
It is possible to install the cat flap onto a brickwall, but it is not recommended for people who aren't experienced in masonry. This could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it's important to ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. You should always consult an expert if you have to cut a hole in the wall for pipes and cables. It is also recommended to wear protective goggles and a dust mask to prevent inhaling any sawdust that is created by cutting into the walls of your house.
Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.
There are many different cat flaps on the market and each one comes with different features. Certain cat flaps come with security features such as magnetic locks or microchips that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also keep your pet from letting guests or another animal into the house. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to keep out moisture and draughts.
There are various sizes available depending on the breed and size of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular while others are square or circular. The type of cat flap you choose will depend on the size of the opening and the kind of door or window you're fixing it to.
Finally, think about the mechanism for opening your cat flap will have. The cheapest option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It won't stop other animals and cats from entering the room, and you could let in draughts.
It's time to install your cat flap. Start by marking the height of the belly on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is not too low and that it is straight across the door. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, using the 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 the Tools
It's important to have the right tools available when doing any DIY project. The main things you'll need are the cat flap as well as a tape measure, a decent pencil and a spirit level drill, file, and the jigsaw (depending on your windows or doors).
Consult the manufacturer before making any changes to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to be damaged. In this case it's likely you'll need to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass.
You'll need to use an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. If possible, use an example to determine the dimensions of the hole you have to cut.
After you've made the hole, you should then smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. cat flap install should prevent any rust or water damage from happening in the near future. It is also recommended to cover the holes in your door or window and the back of the cat flap to prevent wind and rain. After the sealant has dried it is time to install your cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to come and go whenever it wants, installing flaps can aid. This is a simple process that most people can do by themselves, though you'll likely need to hire a professional if you are installing the flap in the form of a glass door or another type of uPVC door.
Begin by reading the instructions provided with the flap to locate the template drawing. This will give you an idea of where holes need to be drilled for the flap on the door. Mark the areas you'll need to drill in using pencil.
Once you have marked out the door's area then use a jigsaw cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a relatively easy job, but you'll have to be comfortable using the saw. If you are concerned about doing it yourself, there are a lot of companies that can do this for you at a minimal cost.
The next step is to attach the interior part of the cat flap to the hole in your door. It may be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this in order to ensure it is weatherproof and watertight. The outside of your cat flap could be placed on the bolts' tops and then tightened together. It is recommended to test the cat flap with your cat to make sure that it functions properly and that they can move easily through it.