Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap inside your home can be a big step for any pet owner. If your cat is old and needs extra security or you have a new kitten who require a vet check There are a lot of options there to choose from.
Installing a cat flap can be a daunting task for novices, but with the right instructions, it's easy to do. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the key to success.
Choose the Right Door or Windows
There are a wide variety of cat flaps to choose from including some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from leaving or coming in) and others with high-tech features such as microchips for door entry systems. But, it's important to think about the ease of your cat to teach to use the flap prior to making a purchase and fit one.
Depending on the style of your home It is recommended to place the cat flap inside an opening or window that opens to an area that is protected from the garden so that your cat can feel safe when leaving and entering the home. If possible this will also allow them a route back in should they be chased by another cat or by humans who are intent to harm them.
It is possible to install an egress flap inside a uPVC door or glass window, but it's not as easy as putting one in a wooden door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses, which affect how holes are cut and the materials you're fixing them to.
To avoid costly errors, it is recommended to consult an expert glazier prior to installing the flap on a door with a glass front. If you're installing the flap to a wooden door, start by introducing your cat to it before you fit it so that they can become familiar with its shape and size and explore it from all angles.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
In order to put in a cat flap that's a good fit for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat. This will enable you to make sure that the flap is installed at the correct height on the door or window and also that it's large enough for him to enter and out easily.
To do this, lay your pet on their back and run your fingers gently along their belly. Look for any fat pads that are squishy which may be visible around their lower back, face or limbs. The padding provides your pet safety and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics that felines are famous for.
You can also use the weight of your pet to determine how large opening you require. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg, for example the suggested flap size is 14x12cm.
Take a measurement of your windows or doors
This type of cat flap, as its name suggests, is designed to be affixed to a door. It lets your pet be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. These flaps are constructed of plastic or aluminum and are placed in the middle of the door. They have a two-way swinging opening that can be opened by gently pressing on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps that offer extra security, so your cat can't simply walk through from the outside.
Cat flaps are also frequently employed in windows. They can be easily installed, but they have to be installed at an elevated level since cats and dogs find it difficult to get them. If the window is too high to use a cat flap, ramps, steps or specially built stairs can be used to help the animal access it.
It is possible to put the cat flap onto the brick wall, however it is not recommended for people who aren't familiar with the masonry industry. This could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's essential to ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. Always consult an expert when you need to make a hole for pipes or cables. It's also advisable to wear protective goggles and a dust protection mask to avoid breathing in any sawdust that is created by cutting holes in your home's walls.
Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.
There are numerous cat flaps on the market and each one comes with various features. Some flaps are equipped with security features such as microchip recognition or magnetic locks that prevent unauthorized entry. They also prevent your pet from letting guests or animals to enter the house. Some have weatherproof seals and insulation to keep out draughts and moisture.
There are different sizes that are available based on the breed and size of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular, while others are circular or square. The kind 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.
Finally consider the opening mechanism that your cat flap will come with. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is an choice and is typically the least expensive. However, it will not stop other pets or cats from entering and you may let draughts through as well.
After you've chosen the right cat flap and measured the window or door then it's time to install it. Make a mark on the belly of the door using a ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is exactly on the door and not too low. 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 door's outline. Once you are happy with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for screws.
Prepare the Tools
It's essential to have the right tools when doing any DIY project. You'll need a cat flap along with a pencil and tape measure as well as a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the type of door or window.
If you're installing a composite door, you should consult with the manufacturer before making any changes because this could invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this case it's likely you'll 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 a Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines provided by the manufacturer. If possible, you can use a template to help you mark out the size of the hole you will need to cut.
After you've cut the hole, you will have to sand the edges of the opening. This will prevent any future water damage or rust. Also, you should apply any sealant you require to the back of the cat flap, and to the holes in the window or door to keep out the elements of wind and rain. When the sealant has dried, you're ready to install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
The installation of a flap will allow your cat to come and go whenever it wishes. This is a simple process that most people can do on their own, but you will likely need to hire an expert for installing the flap on an unglazed door or any other type of uPVC door.
Check out the directions that came with your cat flap. There is a drawing of the template. This will give an idea of the location where the holes will be made for the flap to be placed in the door. Then, mark the areas in which you will have to drill using pencil.
After you have mapped out the door's area and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the shape of the cat flap. It's a relatively easy task however you'll need be comfortable with a saw. If replacement upvc door panel with cat flap are worried about doing it yourself, there are a lot of companies that can complete this for you at a very low cost.
Then, attach the outer part of the door to the hole in your door. It may be necessary to seal the flap before you do this in order to ensure it is weatherproof and watertight. Then, you can put the outer section of the flap on top of the fixing bolts and then tighten them all together. replacement upvc door panels with cat flap should test the flap on your cat to make sure that it's working properly and that it allows them to exit and enter easily.