Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap your home is an excellent option for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and requires additional security, or you have kittens that require a thorough screening there are plenty of options there to choose from.
It can be a bit daunting for people who aren't experts in installing an animal flap, but with proper instructions, it's simple. Planning, preparation and precision are the most important factors.
Select the Right Door, or Windows
There are a wide variety of cat flaps to choose from including some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet going out or coming in) and others that have high-tech features such as microchip door entry systems. It is important to think about how easy it will be to teach your cat to use the flap before you purchase and install one.
It is best to place the cat flap, based on the design of your home, inside 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 if they are pursued by a pet or human beings who wish to hurt them.
It's possible to install the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it's not as simple as installing one on a wooden door. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in different thicknesses. This could affect the method of cutting holes, and the type of door you can fix into.
To avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended to consult a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a door with a glass front. If you're installing the flap to a wooden door, start by introduction of your cat to it before you fit it to allow them to become familiar with its size and shape and explore it from every angle.
Find out the size of 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 ensure that the flap is the right height on your door or window, and that it's wide enough for them to enter and exit with ease.
Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers across their belly. Check for any squishy fat pads - these might be visible around their lower back, face and the limbs. The padding gives your pet safety and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics that felines are famous for.
You can also use the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you need. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg in weight, for example, a 14 x 12cm flap for the cat is advised.
Make sure you measure your door or window
This type of cat flap, as the name suggests, is designed to be installed into a door. It lets your pet move in and out at their convenience. These flaps are constructed of aluminum or plastic and sit in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that can be opened by lightly pushing on either side. There are locks on some of these flaps that offer additional security to ensure that your cat isn't able to traverse through the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also commonly used in windows. They can be easily installed, however they have to be placed at a high level as cats and dogs find it difficult to reach them. If the window is too high for a cat flap, ramps, steps or specially built stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it.
It is possible to install the cat flap onto a brickwall, but it is not recommended for people who aren't experienced in brickwork. This could weaken the structure of the wall. It's important to check that there are no cables and pipes in the wall prior to you begin. Always consult an expert when you need to cut a hole in the wall for cables and pipes. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask can ensure that you don't breathe in the sawdust that is created when cutting into your walls.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are numerous cat flaps on the market and each one comes with various features. Some flaps are equipped with security features like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also stop your pet from letting guests or other animals into the home. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to keep out draughts and moisture.
There are different sizes available depending on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are circular or square. Choosing the right type of cat flap will be dictated by the space available and the kind of window or door you intend to install it on.
Finally think about the mechanism for opening your cat flap will come with. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. However, glass cat flap installation near me won't stop other pets or cats from entering and you may let draughts through as well.
Once you have selected the right cat flap and measured the door or window, it's time to fit it. Begin by marking the height of the belly on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is sitting 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, using a saw, 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 create holes for the screws.
Prepare the Tools
It is essential to have the right tools for undertaking any DIY project. You'll require the cat flap along with an eraser and tape measure, a spirit-level, a drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the type of window or door.
If you're installing in a composite door, it is recommended to consult with the manufacturer before making any changes because this could affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this case, it's likely that you'll have to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass.
You'll need to use a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions that are provided by the manufacturer. If possible, you can use an outline to help identify the dimensions of the hole you'll have to cut.
After you've cut the required hole, you must sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop any water damage or rust from occurring in the future. Also, 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 can install your cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to move around whenever it wants, installing flaps can aid. Most people can put in the flap by themselves. However, if you want to install it in a glass or uPVC type door, you may require an expert.
Check out the directions that came with the cat flap. You will find a template drawing. This will give you an idea of where holes need to be drilled for the flap to be placed in the door. Then, mark the places that you'll need to drill with a pencil.
Once you have marked out the area in your door then use a jigsaw cut out the shape of the cat flap. It is a relatively simple task, but you will require a good understanding of a jigsaw. Many companies will do this work for you at a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to take on the task yourself.
Then, screw the inner part to the hole of your door. You may have to apply sealant prior to making this move to ensure it remains weather-proof and water resistant. The outside of your cat flap can be placed on the bolts on top, and then tightened together. You must test the cat flap on your cat to make sure that it's working properly and that it allows them to exit and enter easily.