Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap inside your home can be a huge step for any pet owner. There are many options available for you, no matter if your cat is old and requires additional security or you have kittens who need to be examined.
It can be intimidating for non-professionals to install the cat flap, but with proper guidelines, it's easy. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and precision.
Choose the Right Door, or Window
There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, some with locks that can be used to keep your pet from getting out or in and others with modern features such as microchips or a door entry systems. But, it's important to consider how easy your cat is to teach to use the flap before you purchase and install one.
It is best to place the cat flap, depending on the style of your house, in the form of a window that opens to an area of the garden that is protected. This will allow your cat to feel safe when entering or leaving your home. If you can it will also provide them a way back case they are chased by a cat or by humans who are intent on harming them.
It's possible to put the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't 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, which affect the way holes are cut as well as the material you're fixing it into.
To avoid costly errors It is recommended that you consult a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you are fitting the flap into a wooden door you must introduce your cat first so that it can become familiar with its dimensions and shape.
Find out the size of your cat's belly
You'll need your cat's measurements to make sure that the cat flap you install is a perfect fit. This will enable you to make sure that the flap is placed at the right height on the door or window and that it is large enough to allow him to enter and exit easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers over their belly. Feel for any fat pads that are squishy that could be visible on their lower back, face or legs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline circus skills.
You can also use the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you require. If your cat is at or above 5kg in weight, for example, a 14 x 12cm flap for your cat is recommended.
Make sure you measure your door or window
The name implies the cat flap is designed to be affixed to the door, and offers a way for your pet to go in or out at any time it wishes. They are usually made of aluminum or plastic and rest in the middle of the door. They come with the possibility of a swinging door that opens by pushing lightly on either side. There are locks on some of these flaps, which provide added security so your cat can't simply traverse through the door from outside.
A window is another common location for a cat's flap, and they're easy enough to fit, although they are usually located high enough as it's difficult for dogs and cats to access them. If the window is too high to be used as a cat flap, ramps, steps, or specially constructed stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it.
Cat flaps can also be fitted into a brick wall, however it is not recommended unless skilled in masonry work as it could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's essential to make sure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. It is recommended to consult an expert if you have to make a hole for pipes or cables. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask will ensure that you don't breathe in the dust that is generated when cutting through your walls.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are many cat flaps available on the market, and come with various features. Some are equipped with security features such as magnetic locks or microchips that prevent unauthorized entry and also prevent your pet from allowing pets or friends into the home. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to keep out moisture and draughts.
There is also a choice of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are available in rectangular shapes, while others are square or circular. The type of cat flap you choose will depend on the size of the opening and the type of window or door you're fixing it to.
Finally consider the opening mechanism that your cat flap is likely to have. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. It won't prevent other animals and cats from entering, and you could also be letting in draughts.
Once you've selected the correct cat flap and measured the window or door 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 make sure that the line is straight on the door and not too low. Use your spirit level to draw a sketch of the cat flap. Next, use My Site to cut the outline in the door. Once you're happy with the result, sand the edges and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for the screws.
Make the Tools
Like any DIY tasks, it's recommended to have the right tools to complete the task. You'll need a 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 a composite door, it is recommended to consult with the manufacturer before making any alterations since this could invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this instance, you'll probably have to install an additional pane of toughened glass instead.
You'll need to use an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. Make use of a template to determine the size of hole you'll need.
After you've made the hole, you'll need to sand the edges of the opening. 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 keep out rain and wind. Once the sealant has dried, you can install your new cat-flap!
Install the Flap
Installing a flap allows your cat to move around whenever it pleases. Most people can put in the flap by themselves. However should you wish to install it in a glass or uPVC type door, you may need an expert.
Begin by studying the instructions that come with your cat flap to find the template. 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 have to drill using the pencil.
After you've marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw and cut out the design for the cat flap. This is a relatively easy job, but you'll need to be comfortable using a jigsaw. If you're worried about doing this yourself, there are many companies that can complete this for you at a low cost.
Next, you will need to attach the inside of the flap onto the door's hole. You may need to apply sealant before doing this to ensure that it stays watertight and weather resistant. The outer section of your cat flap could be placed on top of the bolts, and then tightened together. It is recommended to test the cat flap with your cat to ensure that it is working properly and that they are able to get in and out of it.