Fitting a Cat Flap

Getting a cat flap fitted into your home could be a major step for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and requires extra security, or you have kittens who require a vet check there are a lot of options there to choose from.
It can be intimidating for people who aren't experts in installing a cat flap, but with right instructions it's easy. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and accuracy.
Select 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 advanced features like microchips for door entry systems. It is important to think about how it is easy to train your cat to use the flap, before you buy and install one.
Based on the style of your house It is recommended to put the cat flap in a window or door that opens onto a sheltered area of the garden so that your cat can feel safe when entering and leaving the home. If you can, this will also give them a way back should they get chased by a cat or by a human intent on harming them.
It's possible to install the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as easy as putting one on a wooden door. It's because uPVC or composite doors come in different thicknesses. This could affect the way holes are cut, and the material you put to.
If you're installing the flap on a glass door, it's recommended that you seek out a glazier that is skilled in this type of work to avoid any costly errors. If you are fitting the flap into the door made of wood you must introduce your cat to it at first to make sure it is familiar with its size and shape.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
You'll need the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap you install is the perfect fit. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is the right height on your door or window and that it's large enough to allow them to get in and out easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers along their belly. Look for a fat pad that is squishy around the lower back, face or limbs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline circus skills.
Alternately, you could use your pet's weight to determine the size of an opening you require. If your cat weighs at or above 5kg in weight for instance, a 14 x 12cm flap for your cat is advised.
Take a measurement of your window or door
The name implies this kind of cat flap is designed to be fixed into a door and provides the pet with a way to go in or out at any time it wishes. These flaps are constructed of aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door. They have a two-way swinging opening that is opened by gently pushing on either side. They are available with locking options that provide additional security so that your cat is not able to enter the door from outside.
A window is another common location for a cat flap and these are easy enough to install, though they often need to be set up high as it is difficult for dogs and cats to reach them otherwise. If the window is too high to be used as a cat flap, steps, ramps or purpose built stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it.
A cat flap could be incorporated to a brick wall, but it is not recommended unless you are familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it's important to make sure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. If there are, cat flap installation cost near me must be created for them and this is something you should always seek professional advice on. Wearing protective glasses or a dust mask will allow you to avoid breathing in the sawdust created when you cut into your walls.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are numerous cat flaps on the market and all of them offer various features. Some are equipped with security features such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that stop unauthorized entry and prevent your pet from allowing friends or other animals into the home. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to block out draughts and moisture.
There's also a variety of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular, while others are circular or square. The kind of cat flap you select will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the kind of door or window you're installing it to.
Lastly, think about the mechanism for opening your cat flap will have. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. It won't prevent other cats and pets from entering the room, and you could be letting in drafts.
After you've chosen the right cat flap and measured the windows or doors then it's time to install it. Begin by marking the height of the belly on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is sitting straight on the door and not too low. Use your spirit level to draw a template of the flap for cats. Then, using your saw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you are happy with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.
Make sure you have the tools ready
It's essential to have the right tools for performing any DIY project. The main things you'll need are the cat flap itself, a tape measure and an excellent pencil as well as a spirit level, a file, drill and the Jigsaw (depending on the windows or doors).
If you're installing a composite door, you should consult with the manufacturer prior to making any changes because this could affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this scenario, it's likely that you'll have to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass.
For wooden or uPVC doors, you'll need to cut out the shape of your cat flap with the Jigsaw. Follow the directions provided by the manufacturer. Make use of a template to mark the size hole you require.
After you've cut the required hole, you must sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will prevent the possibility of water damage and rust. Also, you should apply any sealant you require to the back of the cat flap, and to the holes in the window or door to keep out rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry then you can put up your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to go and come whenever it wants, installing a flap can help. Most people can put in the flap by themselves. However when you plan to install it on the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you may need a professional.
Start by looking at the instructions included with your cat flap to find the drawing template. This will give you an idea of the location where the holes will be drilled for the flap on the door. Then, mark the places where you need to drill with a pencil.
After you have mapped out the area in your door, use a jigsaw to cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple job however, you'll need to be comfortable with the Jigsaw. If you are worried about doing this yourself, there are many companies that can do this for you at a low cost.
Then, screw the inner part to the hole of your door. It is possible to seal it prior to making this move to ensure it remains weather-proof and water resistant. You can then put the outer part of the flap on the top of the fixing bolts and tighten them all together. You must test the cat flap on your cat to make sure that it functions properly and that it allows them to enter and exit easily.