Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is an excellent option for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and needs extra security or you have kittens that need to be vetted, there are a lot of options there for you.
It can be intimidating for people who aren't experts in installing a cat flap, but with the proper instructions, it's simple. Preparation, planning and precision are the key to success.
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 getting out or inside, and others that have modern features such as microchips or a door entry systems. However, it's important to think about how easy it is for your cat to teach to use the flap prior to making a buy and install one.
Based on the style of your house It is recommended to place the cat flap in an opening or window that opens onto an area of protection in the garden so your cat will feel secure leaving and entering the home. If you can this will also allow them a way back case they are chased by a cat or by humans intent on harming them.
You can install an egress flap inside the form of a uPVC door or a glass window however, it's not as easy as putting one in the door made of wood. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors are available in a variety of thicknesses, which affect the way holes are cut and the material you're fixing it to.
If you're installing the flap on a glass door it is recommended to find a glazier who is experienced in this type of work to avoid any costly errors. If cat flap in upvc door panel installing the flap in the door made of wood, start by introducing your cat to it before you fit it so that they can be familiar with its shape and size, and explore it from every angle.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
To install a cat flap that's the right size for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat's height. This will allow you to make sure that the flap is placed at the right height on the door or window and that it's big enough to allow him to enter and leave easily.
To do this, place your pet on their back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Check for any squishy fat pads which 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 acrobatics cats are famous for.
You can also make use of your pet's weight to determine the size of an opening you'll need. If your cat is at or over 5kg, for example that's a 14x12cm cat flap opening is recommended.
Measure Your Door or Window
This type of cat flap, as its 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 aluminum or plastic and sit in the centre of the door. They have the possibility of a swinging door that is opened by pushing lightly on either side. There are locks on some of these flaps, which provide additional security to ensure that your cat isn't able to enter the door from the outside.
Cat flaps are also frequently used in windows. They can be easily installed, but they have to be set at an elevated level since cats and dogs find it difficult to get them. If the window is too high to be used as a cat flap then steps, ramps or purpose built stairs can be used to aid the animal in accessing it.
A cat flap could be installed to a brick wall, but this is not recommended unless familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the structure of the wall. It is important to make sure there aren't any cables and pipes in the wall prior to you begin. If there are, then a hole needs to be made for them. This is something that you should always seek expert advice on. It is also recommended to wear safety goggles and a dust-proof mask to avoid inhaling any sawdust that is created by cutting into the walls of your house.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are a variety of cat flaps on the market, and have various features. Some are equipped with security features such as magnetic locks or microchips that prevent unauthorized entry and also restrict your pet from letting guests or other animals to enter the house. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to keep out moisture and draughts.
There's also a range of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, while others are circular or square. The type of cat flap you pick will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the type of window or door you're fixing it to.
The last thing to do is consider the type of opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. A simple aluminium or plastic swing-out door is an choice and is typically the cheapest. But, it will not prevent other cats or pets from entering and you may let draughts through as well.
Once you've selected the right cat flap and measured the windows or doors then it's time to install it. Mark the belly height of the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is sitting exactly on the door and not too low. Utilize your spirit level to draw a template for the cat flap. Then, using the jigsaw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you are satisfied with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil marks to create holes for screws.
Make the Tools
As with all DIY jobs, it's always best to have the right tools for the job. The main things you'll need are the cat flap itself along with a tape measure, a decent pencil as well as a spirit level, drill, file and a jigsaw (depending on your door or window type).
Consult the manufacturer before making any changes to a door made of composite. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to be broken. In this case, you'll probably require a new pane of toughened glass instead.
You'll require a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. If possible, use an example to identify the dimensions of the hole you'll will need to cut.
After you've made the hole, you'll have to sand off the edges of the opening. This will prevent any water damage or rust from happening in the future. It is also recommended to seal the holes in your door or window and the side of the flap to keep out wind and rain. After the sealant has dried then you're now ready to put in your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
Fitting a flap will allow your cat to go and come whenever it wants. The majority of people can install the flap by themselves. However should you wish to put it in the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you may require a professional.
Begin by studying the instructions that come with the flap to locate the template drawing. This will provide you with an idea of where the holes for the flap will need to be drilled in the door. Mark the areas you'll need to drill in using the pencil.
After you have mapped out the door's area, use a jigsaw to cut out the design of the cat flap. It's a relatively easy job however, you'll need to be comfortable using a Jigsaw. Many companies will do this work for you for a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to take on the task yourself.
The next step is to screw the inner part of the flap onto the door's hole. It may be necessary to seal the flap before you do this in order to keep it weatherproof and watertight. Then, you can put the outer section of the cat flap on the top of the fixing bolts and tighten them all together. It is recommended that you test the cat flap with your cat to ensure that it is working properly and that they can get in and out of it.