Fitting a Cat Flap

Getting a cat flap fitted into your home could be a big step for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and requires additional security, or you have new kittens who require a vet check, there are a lot of options there for you.
It can be difficult for non-professionals to install an animal flap, but with the proper instructions, it's simple. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and accuracy.
Select the Right Door, or Windows
There are a wide variety of cat flaps available including some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from leaving or entering) and others with advanced features like microchip door entry systems. It's important to think about 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 style of your home, inside the form of a window that opens to a garden that is sheltered. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering and leaving your home. If possible this will also allow them a route back in case they are chased by a cat or by humans who are intent to harm them.
It is possible to install a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as simple as installing one into a wood door. It's because uPVC or composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses. This can impact the how holes are cut and the type of door you can fix to.
If you're installing the flap inside a glass door it is recommended that you find a glazier who is experienced in this kind of work to avoid costly mistakes. If you're installing the flap to a wooden door, start by introduction of your cat to it prior to fitting it so that they can become familiar with its shape and size and explore it from all angles.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
It is important to know the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap you put in is a perfect fit. This will allow you to ensure that the cat flap is installed at the right height for the door or window and that it's big enough for him to enter and leave easily.
To do this, lay your pet on their back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back or face, or around the legs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline Acrobatics.
You can also consider your pet's weight as a way to gauge how big an opening you require. If your cat is at or over 5kg for instance an opening of 14 x 12cm cat flap opening is recommended.
Take a measurement of your window or door
As the name suggests the cat flap is made to be attached to the door, and offers the pet with a way to go in or out whenever it wants. They are usually made from plastic or aluminium and simply are placed in the middle of the door. They come with the possibility of a swinging door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps that offer additional security to ensure that your cat can't simply walk through from the outside.
A window is a common place to put a cat flap, and they're easy enough to fit, although they often need to be located high enough as it's difficult for cats and dogs to reach them otherwise. If the window isn't high enough to use a cat's flap, then you can opt for ramps, steps, or stairs that are specially designed to aid the animal in getting to it.
It is possible to install a cat flap into a brickwall, but it is not recommended for those who aren't experienced in the masonry industry. This could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it is important to ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. It is recommended to consult an expert if you have to cut a hole in the wall for cables and pipes. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask will help you avoid inhaling the sawdust that is created when cutting through your walls.
Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.
There are numerous cat flaps on the market, and they all offer various features. Certain cat flaps come with security features, such as microchip recognition or magnetic locks that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also stop your pet from letting guests or another animal into the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to block water and drafts.
There's also a range of sizes, based on the size and breed 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 fitting it to.
Also think about the mechanism for opening your cat flap will have. A simple aluminium or plastic swing-out door is one choice and is typically the least expensive. It will not stop other cats and pets from entering, and you could also be letting in drafts.
It's time to install your cat flap. Start by marking more info on the door with your ruler. Use this website to make sure that the line is straight on the door and not too low. Use your spirit level to draw a sketch of the flap for cats. Next, use your jigsaw to cut out the outline in the door. Once you are happy with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil marks to create holes for screws.
Make the Tools
It's essential to have the right tools when doing any DIY project. The most essential things you'll need are the cat flap itself along with a tape measure, a decent pencil, a spirit level, drill, file and the Jigsaw (depending on your door or window type).
Check with the manufacturer prior to making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal damaged. In this case you'll likely need to fit a new pane of toughened glass instead.
You'll need a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacture. If possible, use a template to help you mark out the size of hole you will need to cut.
After you've cut the hole, you'll need to sand the edges of the opening. This will prevent any rust or water damage from happening in the near future. Finally, you should apply any sealant that is needed to the rear of the cat flap, and to the holes in the window or door to block the elements of wind and rain. After the sealant has dried, you're ready to install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
Fitting a flap will allow your cat to go and come whenever it wants. Most people can put in the flap by themselves. However when you plan to install it in glass or uPVC type door, you may need a professional.
Start by looking at the instructions provided with the flap to locate the template drawing. This will give an idea of where the holes will be drilled to install the flap in the door. Note the areas you'll need to drill in using the pencil.
After you've marked the door's area then use a jigsaw cut out the design of the cat flap. It's a relatively easy task however you'll need be comfortable with the jigsaw. If you are concerned about doing it yourself, there are many businesses that can handle this for you at a very low cost.
Then, you can screw the inside part of the door to the hole in your door. It might 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 top of the bolts, and then tightened together. You should test the cat flap on your cat to make sure that it is working correctly and that it allows them to enter and exit easily.