Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in your home is a fantastic option for any pet owner. If your cat is old and requires extra security, or you have new kittens that need to be vetted, there are plenty of options out there for you.
It can be intimidating for people who aren't experts in installing a cat flap, but with right instructions it's easy. The most important thing is planning, preparation and accuracy.
Choose the Right Door or Windows
There are many different types of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to keep your pet from going out or in and others with modern features such as microchips or a door entry systems. It is important to consider how it is easy to train your cat to use the flap before you buy and install one.
Depending on the design of your house, it's generally best to place 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 can feel safe when leaving and entering the home. This will also enable them to return inside in the event of being chased by another animal or humans who want to harm them.
It is possible to install a cat flap in the case of a uPVC door or glass window, but it's not as straightforward as fitting one into the door made of wood. This is because uPVC and composite doors are available in various thicknesses, which affect how holes are cut and the material you're fixing it to.
To avoid costly errors, it is recommended to consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a door with a glass front. If you're installing the flap in the door made of wood, start by introduction of your cat to it before you fit it, so that they get used to its shape and size, and explore it from all angles.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
In order to install an appropriate cat flap that is the right size for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat. This will ensure that the flap is at the right height for your door or window, and that it's large enough for them to enter and exit with ease.
Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers across their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back and face, as well as the limbs. The padding gives your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the acrobatics cats are known for.
Alternatively, you can also make use of your pet's weight to determine the size of an opening you need. If your cat is up to 5Kg in weight, for example, a 14 x 12cm cat flap opening is advised.
Take a measurement of your window or door
This kind of cat flap, as the name suggests, is designed to be installed into a door. It allows your pet to be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. They are usually made of aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door. They come with an open door that is opened by pushing lightly on either side. They are available with locking options which provide extra security which means that your cat can't walk through the door from outside.
A window is a common location for a cat's flap, and they're easy enough to fit, although they are usually placed high up as it's difficult for dogs and cats to reach them otherwise. If the window is too high for a cat flap then steps, ramps or purpose built stairs can be used to aid the animal in accessing it.
It is possible to install the cat flap onto a brickwall, but it is not recommended for those who are not experienced in the masonry industry. This could cause the wall to weaken. It is essential to ensure that there aren't any cables and pipes within the wall before you begin. Always consult an expert if you have to make a hole for cables and pipes. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask will ensure that you don't breathe in the sawdust that is created when you cut into your walls.
Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.
There are cat flap installation cost flaps available and all of them offer different features. Some have security options such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition to stop unauthorized entry and stop your pet allowing guests or other animals to enter the home. Some have weatherproof seals and insulation to block out draughts and moisture.
There's also a variety of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular, while others are square or circular. The type of cat flap you choose will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the type of window or door you're fixing it to.
Last but not least, take into consideration the kind of opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is a good option and is usually the least expensive. However, it will not stop other pets or cats from gaining access and you could let draughts in as well.
It's time to put in your cat flap. Mark the belly height of the door with your ruler. Make use of a spirit-level to make sure that the line is not 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 saw to cut out the door's outline. When you are satisfied with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil lines to create holes for screws.
Make the Tools
Like any DIY jobs, it's always best to have the appropriate tools to complete the task. You'll require the cat flap, tape measure and pencil as well as a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the kind of door or window.
Check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a door made of composite. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to become damaged. In this case it's likely you'll have to replace the glass with a brand new piece of toughened glass.
For wooden or uPVC doors you'll need to cut out the shape of your cat flap using a jigsaw and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Use a template to mark out the size hole you require.
After you've made the hole, you'll need to smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will prevent any future water damage or rust. Finally, you should apply any necessary sealant to the rear of the cat flap, and to the holes in the door or window to keep out rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry then you're now ready to put in your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
Fitting a flap will allow your cat to go and come whenever it wants. Most people can install the flap by themselves. However when you plan to install it on glass or uPVC type door, you may need an expert.
Check out the directions that came with the cat flap. There is an illustration of the template. This will provide you with an idea of where holes for the flap have to be drilled into the door. Mark the areas where you have to drill using the pencil.
After you have marked the area on your door, you can use the jigsaw and cut out the design for the cat flap. It's a relatively easy task however you'll need be comfortable using a 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 of your door. You may have to apply sealant prior to doing this to ensure it stays watertight and weather resistant. The outer part of your cat flap may be placed on the bolts' tops and then tightened together. You should test the cat flap on your cat to ensure that it is working correctly and that it allows the cat to go in and out easily.