Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is a great option for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and needs extra security or you have kittens that require a thorough screening There are plenty of options there to choose from.
It can be intimidating for non-professionals to install an animal flap, but with proper instructions, it's simple. The most important thing is planning, preparation and precision.
Choose the Right Door or Windows
There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, some with locks that can be used to prevent your pet from getting out or in, while others have advanced features like microchips for door entry systems. It's important to think about how it is easy to train your cat to use the flap, before you buy and install one.
Based on the style of your house It is recommended to put the cat flap inside the form of a door or window that opens out into a sheltered area of the garden so that your cat will feel secure going into and out of the house. This will also enable them to return inside if they are chased by another animal or human who wants to hurt them.
It's possible to install a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it's not as simple as installing one on a wooden door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors are available in various thicknesses, which affect the way holes are cut and the materials you're fixing them into.
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 on the door made of wood, start by introducing your cat to it prior to fitting it, so that they be familiar with its shape and size, and explore it from every angle.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
To install an appropriate cat flap that is the right size for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat. This will allow you to ensure that your cat flap is at the correct height on the window or door, and that it's big enough for him to get in and leave easily.
To do this, lay your pet on their back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Check for any squishy fat pads - these might be visible around their lower back, face and legs. The padding provides your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics that felines are known for.
Alternately, you could 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 an opening of 14 x 12cm flap for the cat is recommended.
Make sure you measure your door or window
Like the name suggests, this type of cat flap is designed to be fixed into a door and provides a way for your pet to go in or out at any time it wishes. These flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and sit in the middle of the door. They have a two-way swinging opening that is opened by gently pushing on either side. There are locks on some of these flaps, which provide added security so your cat isn't able to enter the door from the outside.
A window is a common location for a cat flap and these are easy enough to put in, but they are usually located high enough as it's difficult for dogs and cats to access them. If the window is too high for a cat flap, ramps, steps or specially constructed stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it.
A cat flap could be incorporated into a brick wall, however this is not recommended unless you're experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's important to ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. If there are, an opening must be created for them and this is something you should always seek professional advice on. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask will ensure that you don't breathe in the dust that is generated when you cut into your walls.
Choose the right cat flap
There are numerous cat flaps available on the market, and have various features. Some flaps are equipped with security features like magnetic locks or microchips that prevent unauthorized entry. They also stop your pet from allowing friends or another animal into the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to block water and drafts.
There's also a variety of sizes, based on the size and breed of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, whereas others are circular or square. The best type of cat flap will be determined by the space you have available and the kind of window or door you want to attach it to.
The last thing to do is take into consideration the kind of opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. However, it won't stop other pets or cats from entering your home and you could be letting draughts in as well.
It's time to install your cat flap. Start by marking the belly height on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is sitting straight against the door and not too low. Utilize your spirit level to draw a template of the cat flap. Then, using a saw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you are happy with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil marks to create holes for screws.
Make sure you have the tools ready
As with any DIY tasks, it's advisable to make sure you have the appropriate tools to complete the task. You'll require the cat flap along with a pencil and tape measure as well as a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the kind of window or door.
If you're installing in a composite door, you should consult with the manufacturer before making any changes because this could cause the warranty to be invalidated or break the weathertight seal. In this case you'll have to install an additional pane of toughened glass instead.
For wooden or uPVC doors you'll need to cut out the shape of your cat flap using the Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines provided by the manufacturer. If you can, use an outline to help identify the size of the hole you'll need to cut.
After you have cut the hole, you'll need to sand the edges of the opening. This will help prevent any future water damage or rust. It is also recommended to seal the holes in your door or window and the back of the cat flap to keep out wind and rain. 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. It's a simple procedure that most people can do themselves, although you will likely require the help of a professional if you are installing the flap in the form of a glass door or another kind of uPVC door.
Take a look at the instructions that came with the cat flap. There is an illustration of the template. This will give an idea of the location where the holes are to be drilled to install the flap on the door. Note the areas you'll need to drill into with the pencil.
After back door with cat flap fitted have marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw to cut the shape for the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task however, you'll need to be comfortable using a saw. Many companies will do this for you at a reasonable price If you're not sure how to do it yourself.
Then, you can screw the inside part to the hole in your door. It might be necessary to seal the flap before you do this to ensure it is waterproof and weatherproof. You can then place the outer part of the flap on the top of the fixing bolts, and tighten the bolts all together. You should test the cat flap on your cat to confirm that it is working correctly and allows them to enter and exit easily.