Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is a fantastic option for any pet owner. There are a variety of options for you, no matter if your cat is older and requires extra security or if you have kittens that require to be checked.
It can be a bit daunting for non-professionals to install the cat flap, but with right instructions it's easy. Preparation, planning and precision are the most important factors.
Select the Right Door or Windows
There are a variety of cat flaps available that come with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet going out or entering) and others that have high-tech features like microchip door entry systems. It is important to think about how easy it will be to teach your cat to use the flap before you buy and install one.
It is recommended to put the cat flap, depending on the design of your house, in an opening that leads into an area of the garden that is protected. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering and leaving your home. If possible, this will also give them a way back should they be chased by another cat or by humans who are intent to hurt them.
It is possible to install the cat flap on a uPVC door or glass window however, it's not as straightforward as putting one in the door made of wood. This is because uPVC and composite doors are available in different thicknesses, which can affect how holes are cut and the materials you're fixing them into.
To avoid costly errors It is recommended that you consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you are fitting the flap into an existing wooden door, you should introduce your cat to it at first so that it can become familiar with its size and shape.
Take cat flap cost at your cat's belly measurement
To install a cat flap that's a good fit for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's size. This will enable you to ensure that the cat flap is placed at the right height for the window or door, and that it's big enough for him to get in and out easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers over their belly. Check for any fat pads that are squishy which could be visible on their lower back, face and limbs. The padding provides your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the acrobatics cats are famous for.
You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you need. If your cat is at or over 5kg for instance that's a 14x12cm flap for the cat is advised.
Make sure you measure your window or door
As the name suggests this kind of cat flap is made to be attached to the door, and offers an opportunity for your pet to leave or enter as it pleases. They are typically made of aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door. They have a two-way swinging door that opens by pushing lightly on either side. They are available in locking versions that provide additional security which means that your cat can't traverse the door from outside.
A window is a common location for a cat's flap, and they're easy enough to fit, although they usually need to be located high enough as it's difficult for cats and dogs to access them. If the window is too high to be used as a cat flap, steps, ramps or purpose built stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it.
It is possible to put the cat flap onto a brickwall, but it is not recommended for people who aren't familiar with brickwork. This could weaken the wall's structure. It is essential to ensure that there are no cables and pipes in the wall prior to you start. You should always consult an expert when you need to make a hole for pipes or cables. Wearing protective glasses or a dust mask will allow you to avoid breathing in the sawdust that is created when cutting through your walls.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are numerous cat flaps on the market and they all have various features. Some flaps are equipped with security features like microchip recognition or magnetic locks that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also keep your pet from letting friends or another animal into the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals that keep out water and drafts.
There is also a choice of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, whereas others are square or circular. Selecting the best cat flap will be dictated by the space you have available and the kind of door or window you are fitting it to.
Also, think about the mechanism for opening your cat flap will have. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. However, it will not keep other animals or cats from gaining access and you could be letting draughts in too.
Once you've selected the appropriate cat flap and measured your door or window and window, it's now time to put it in place it. Begin by marking the belly height on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is sitting straight on the door and not too low. Use your spirit level to draw a template of the cat flap. Then, use a jigsaw to cut out the door's outline. Once you are satisfied with the result finish sanding the edges and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.
Make the Tools
Like all DIY tasks, it's best to have the right tools for the job. You'll need the cat flap, a pencil and tape measure as well as a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the type of door or window.
Contact the manufacturer prior to making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal broken. In this case it's likely that you will need to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.
For wooden or uPVC doors will require cutting out the shape of your cat flap using the Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines given by the manufacturer. Make use of a template to determine the size of hole you need.
After cat flap cover for winter have cut the hole, you'll have to sand the edges of the opening. This will stop any water damage or rust from happening in the near future. Finally, you should apply any sealant you require to the back of the cat flap as well as to the holes in the window or door to block the elements of wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry then you can put up your new cat-flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to go and come as it pleases, fitting flaps can aid. It's a simple procedure that most people can do on their own, but you will likely need to hire an expert if you're installing the flap on the form of a glass door or another type of uPVC door.
Begin by reading the instructions provided with the flap to locate the template drawing. This will give an idea of where the holes are to be made for the flap in the door. Then, mark the areas in which you will have to drill using pencil.
After you've marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw and cut out the the cat flap. It's a relatively easy job however you'll need be comfortable with the saw. Many companies will do this work for you for a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to do it yourself.
Then, screw the inner part to the hole in your door. It may be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this, in order to ensure it is weatherproof and watertight. Then, you can put the outer portion of the cat flap on top of the fixing bolts, and tighten them all. It is recommended to test the cat flap with your cat to ensure that it works correctly and that they are able to move easily through it.