Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap your home is an excellent option for any pet owner. There are a variety of options for you, no matter if your cat is old and requires extra security or you have kittens that require to be checked.
Installing a cat flap could be daunting for non-professionals but, with the right instructions, it's easy to complete. The most important thing is planning, preparation and accuracy.
Choose the Right Door or Window
There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, including 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. However, it's important to think about how easy it is for your cat to train to use the flap prior to making a purchase and install one.
Based on the style of your house, it's usually best to situate the cat flap inside a window or door that opens onto an area that is protected from the garden so that your cat is secure when entering and leaving the home. This will also enable them to return inside if they are chased by other animals or human who wants to harm them.
It is possible to install an egress flap inside a uPVC door or glass window, but it's not as straightforward as fitting one into wooden doors. This is because uPVC and composite doors are available in different thicknesses, which can affect the way holes are cut and the material you're fixing it to.
If you're installing the flap on glass doors, it's recommended that you seek out a glazier that is skilled in this type of work to avoid any costly mistakes. If you're fitting the flap to the door made of wood, start by introduction of your cat to it prior to fitting it so that they can be familiar with its size and shape and explore it from every angle.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
In order to install a cat flap that's suitable for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat's height. This will ensure that the flap is the right height for your window or door and that it's big enough to allow them to get in and out easily.
To do this, place your pet on their back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Look for a fat pad that is squishy around the lower back, face or legs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline acrobatics.
You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine the size of opening you require. If your cat weighs at or above 5kg in weight, for example an opening of 14 x 12cm cat flap opening is advised.
Take a measurement of your door or window
The name implies the cat flap is made to be attached to the door, and offers a way for your pet to leave or enter whenever it wants. They are typically made of plastic or aluminium and simply rest in the middle of the door. They have an open door that opens by pressing lightly on either side. The flaps can be locked which provide extra security so that your cat is not able to walk through the door from outside.
cat flap fitters is another common location for a cat flap, and they are simple enough to put in, but they often need to be set up high as it is difficult for cats and dogs to reach them otherwise. If the window is too high to use a cat flap then ramps, steps or specially built stairs can be utilized to help the animal access it.
It is possible to install the cat flap onto brick walls, however it is not recommended for people who aren't familiar with the masonry industry. This could cause the wall to weaken. It is important to make sure there aren't any cables or pipes inside the wall before you begin. Always consult an expert when you need to cut a hole in the wall for pipes and cables. It is also recommended to wear safety goggles and a dust-proof mask to avoid breathing in any of the sawdust created by cutting through the walls of your home.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are numerous cat flap s available on the market, and all offer different features. Some are equipped with security features such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition to prevent unauthorized entry and also restrict your pet from letting pets or friends into the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to keep out water and drafts.
There is also a choice of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, while others are circular or square. The kind of cat flap you pick will depend on the size of the opening and the type of window or door you're installing it to.
The last thing to do is think about the opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. The most affordable option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. However, it won't stop other pets or cats from entering your home and you could let draughts through as well.
After you've chosen the correct cat flap and measured the window or door, it's time to fit it. Start by marking the height of the belly on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit-level to make sure that the line isn't too low and is straight on the door. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, you can use your Jigsaw to cut the outline in the door. When you're happy with the result, sand the edges and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.
Make the Tools
It is essential to have the right tools available when performing any DIY project. You'll need the cat flap, a pencil and tape measure, a spirit-level, a drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the type of door or window.
If you're installing a composite door, consult with the manufacturer before making any changes as this may invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this scenario, you'll probably have to install a new pane of toughened glass instead.
You'll need a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions given by the manufacturer. If possible, you can use an example to determine the dimensions of the hole you will need to cut.
After you've cut the required hole, you'll need to smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This should prevent any water damage or rust from happening in the near future. It is also recommended to cover the holes in your window or door and the side of the flap to prevent wind and rain. Once the sealant has dried then you can put up your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
Fitting a flap will allow your cat to come and go whenever it pleases. It's a simple procedure that most people can complete on their own, but you'll likely require the help of an expert for installing the flap on an unglazed door or any other kind of uPVC door.
Begin by studying the instructions that come with the flap to locate the template. This will give an idea of where the holes will be made for the flap on the door. Then, mark the places where you must drill using a pencil.
After you have marked the door on your door, you can use the jigsaw and cut out the shape for the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task, but you will have to be comfortable using the jigsaw. If you are concerned about doing this yourself, there are plenty of businesses that can handle this for you at a low cost.
The next step is to attach the inside of the cat flap to the door's hole. It may be necessary to seal the flap before you do this, in order to keep it waterproof and weatherproof. The outer part of your cat flap could be placed on top of the bolts, and then securing them. It is recommended that you test the flap using your cat to ensure that it works correctly and that they are able to enter and leave easily through it.