Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in your home is an excellent option for any pet owner. There are numerous options for you, whether your cat is old and needs extra security or you have kittens who need to be checked.
It can be difficult for those who aren't professionals to put in a cat flap, but with proper guidelines, it's easy. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the key to success.
Select the Right Door or Windows
There are a wide variety of cat flaps to choose from that come with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from leaving or entering) and others that have high-tech features like microchip door entry systems. But, it's important to think about the ease of your cat to train to use the flap before you buy and install one.
Based on the style of your home, it's usually best to situate the cat flap near the form of a door or window that opens to an area of protection in the garden so that your cat will feel secure entering and leaving the home. This will also enable them to get back inside in the event of being chased by another animal or human beings who wish to harm them.
It's possible to put a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it's not as easy as putting one into a wood door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors are available in different thicknesses, and this can impact the way holes are cut as well as the materials you're fixing them into.
If you're installing the flap on a glass door it is recommended to find a glazier who is experienced in this kind of work to avoid costly mistakes. If you're installing the flap to the door made of wood it is recommended that you introduce your cat first to ensure that it becomes familiar with its dimensions and shape.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
You'll need your cat's measurements to make sure that the cat flap you install is the perfect fit. This will ensure that the flap is the correct height on your door or window, and that it's wide enough for them to enter and exit easily.
To do this, put your pet on their back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back and face, as well as 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 determine the size of an opening you'll need. If your cat weighs more than 5kg, for instance the suggested flap size is 14x12cm.
Measure Your Door or Window
As the name suggests, this type of cat flap is designed to be fixed into a door and provides the pet with a way to go in or out whenever it wants. They are usually made of aluminum or plastic and rest in the middle of the door. They come with an open door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. The flaps are available in locking versions that offer added security, which means that your cat can't walk through the door from outside.
A window is another popular place to put a cat flap, and they are simple enough to install, though they often need to be located high enough as it's difficult for cats and dogs to access them. If the window is too high for a cat flap, ramps, steps or specially constructed stairs can be used to help the animal access it.
It is possible to insert the cat flap onto brick walls, however it is not recommended for those who aren't familiar with masonry. This could weaken the structure of the wall. It is essential to ensure that there aren't any cables or pipes in the wall prior to you begin. Always consult a professional if you need to make a hole for cables and pipes. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask will allow you to avoid breathing in the dust that is generated when you cut into your walls.
Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.
There are Repair My Windows And Doors on the market and each one comes with various features. Some are equipped with security features like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by unauthorized persons and stop your pet allowing friends or other animals into the home. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to keep out moisture and draughts.
There's also a variety of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, whereas others are circular or square. The type of cat flap you select will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the kind of door or window you're fitting it to.
The last thing to do is take into consideration the kind of opening mechanism your cat flap will use. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. It won't stop other pets and cats from entering, and you could also be letting in drafts.
It's time to install your cat flap. Mark the belly height of the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line isn't too low and is in line with the door. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Next, use your Jigsaw to cut the door's outline. Once you're happy with the result, sand the edges and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for the screws.
Prepare the Tools
It is essential to have the right tools available when doing any DIY project. You'll require the cat flap as well as tape measure and pencil, a spirit-level, a drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the type of door or window.
If you're installing in a composite door, you should consult with the manufacturer before making any alterations as this may affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this instance it's likely that you'll have to replace the glass with a brand new piece of toughened glass.
You'll need an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions given by the manufacturer. Use a template to mark the size hole you'll require.
After you've made the hole, you should then sand down the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will prevent any future water damage or rust. In the end, you must apply any necessary sealant to the back of the cat flap and to the holes in the door or window to block the elements of wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry then you can put up your cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to go and come as it pleases, fitting flaps can aid. Most people can install the flap by themselves. However, if you want to put it in glass or uPVC type door, you may need a professional.
Look at the instructions that came with the cat flap. There is an illustration of the template. This will provide you with an idea of where the holes for the flap will need to be made in the door. Then, mark the places where you need to drill with pencil.
After you have marked the door on your door, you can use the jigsaw to cut the the cat flap. It is a relatively simple task, but you'll require a good understanding of the saw. If you are concerned about doing this yourself, there are many companies that can complete this for you at a minimal cost.
The next step is to screw the inner part of the flap onto the hole in your door. You may have to apply sealant prior to making this move to ensure it remains weather-proof and water resistant. Then, you can put the outer part of the cat flap on top of the fixing bolts and tighten them all together. You should test the cat flap on your cat to confirm that it is working correctly and that it allows them to exit and enter easily.