Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap your home is a great option for any pet owner. There are numerous options to you, regardless of whether your cat is getting older and requires extra security or you have kittens that require to be examined.
It can be difficult for non-professionals to install an animal flap, but with the proper guidelines, it's easy. Preparation, planning and precision are the key to success.
Select the Right Door or Windows
There's a wide selection of cat flaps to choose from that come with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from going out or entering) and others that have high-tech features like microchip door entry systems. It's important to think about how it is easy to teach your cat to use the flap before you buy and install one.
It is recommended to put the cat flap, based on the design of your home, inside a window that opens into an area of the garden that is protected. This will help your cat feel secure when entering and leaving your home. This will also enable them to go back inside if they're chased by other animals or human who wants to harm them.
You can install a cat flap in a uPVC door or glass window however it's not as easy as fitting one into wooden doors. This is because uPVC and composite doors come in various thicknesses, and this can impact the way holes are cut as well as the material you're fixing it into.
To avoid costly errors to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended that you consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a door with a glass front. If you're fitting the flap onto an existing wooden door it is recommended that you introduce your cat first so that it can become familiar with its dimensions and shape.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
It is important to know the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you put in is a perfect fit. This will help you ensure that your cat flap is placed at the correct height on the door or window and that it is large enough for him to enter and out easily.
To do this, place your pet on their back and run your fingers gently across their belly. Look for any fat pads that are squishy which may be visible around their lower back, face or limbs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline acrobatics.
Alternately, you could consider your pet's weight as a way to determine the size of the opening you require. If your cat weighs at or above 5kg in weight, for example an opening of 14 x 12cm flap for the cat is recommended.
Measure your door or window
This kind of cat flap, as the name suggests is designed to be installed into a door. It allows your pet to enter and exit at its convenience. These flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and are located in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that opens by lightly pushing on either side. These flaps can be locked which provide extra security which means that your cat can't traverse the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also commonly used in windows. They are able to be easily installed, but they have to be placed at an elevated level since cats and dogs have a difficult time to reach them. If the window isn't high enough to use a cat's flap, then you can use ramps, steps or specially designed stairs to assist the animal in reaching it.
It is possible to put an egress into the brick wall, however it is not recommended for those who are not experienced in masonry. This could weaken the structure of the wall. It is essential to ensure that there aren't any cables and pipes in the wall prior to you begin. If there are, then an opening must be created for them and this is something that you should always seek expert advice on. It is also recommended to wear protective goggles and a dust protection mask to avoid inhaling any sawdust that is created by cutting into your home's walls.
Choose the right cat flap
There are numerous cat flaps on the market, and come with various features. Some are equipped with security features like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry and also stop your pet allowing guests or other animals to enter the home. Some have weatherproof seals and insulation to keep out the elements and keep out drafts.
There is also a choice of sizes, based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are available in rectangular shapes, whereas others are square or circular. The kind of cat flap you pick will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the type of window or door you're installing it to.
Also think about the opening mechanism that your cat flap will come with. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. But, it will not keep other animals or cats from entering and you may be letting draughts in as well.
After you've chosen the correct cat flap and measured your door or window then it's time to install it. Begin by marking the belly's height on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit-level to make sure the line is not too low and that it is straight across the door. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, use a Jigsaw to cut the outline of the door. Once you are happy with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for screws.
Prepare the Tools
It's essential to have the right tools when performing any DIY project. The most essential things you'll need are the cat flap itself as well as a tape measure, an excellent pencil, a spirit level, a file, drill and an Jigsaw (depending on the window or door type).
Consult the manufacturer before making any changes to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal to become damaged. In this instance it's likely that you will need to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.
For wooden or uPVC doors, you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap using the Jigsaw. Follow the directions provided by the manufacturer. If you can, use a template to help you mark out the dimensions of the hole you'll have to cut.
After you've cut the hole, you will have to sand off the edges of the opening. This will prevent any future water damage or rust. Finally, you should apply any sealant that is needed to the back of the cat flap, and to the holes in the door or window to block the elements of wind and rain. After upvc door panel replacement cat flap 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 come and go whenever it wishes. It's a simple procedure that most people can do themselves, although you'll likely need to hire an expert if you're installing the flap on a glass door or other kind of uPVC door.
Begin by reading the instructions provided with the flap to locate the drawing template. This will provide you with an idea of where the holes for the flap have to be drilled in the door. Note the areas you'll need to drill in with a pencil.
After you've marked the area in your door then use a jigsaw cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple job, but you'll require a good understanding of the jigsaw. If you are worried about doing it yourself, there are plenty of companies that can do this for you at a minimal cost.
Then, screw the inner part to the hole in your door. You may have to seal it prior to making this move to ensure it stays watertight and weather resistant. The outer part of your cat flap can be placed on the bolts' tops and then tightened together. It is recommended to test the flap with your cat to make sure that it works correctly and that they can enter and leave easily through it.