Fitting a Cat Flap

Getting a cat flap fitted inside your home can be a major step for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and requires extra security, or you have kittens that require a thorough screening there are plenty of options there to choose from.
Installing a cat flap may be intimidating for people who aren't professionals, however, with the proper instructions, it's easy to complete. The most important thing is planning, preparation and accuracy.
Select the Right Door or Windows
There are a variety of cat flaps available, some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from going out or coming in) and others with advanced features like microchip door entry systems. It's important to think about how it is easy to teach your cat how to use the flap before you buy and install one.
Based on the style of your house, it's usually best to put the cat flap inside the form of a door or window that opens to an area of protection in the garden so your cat is secure when entering and leaving the home. If you can this will also allow them a route back in should they get chased by a cat or by humans who are intent on harming them.
It is possible to install a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it's not as simple as installing one into a wood door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors are available in various thicknesses, which affect the way holes are cut as well as the materials you're fixing them to.
To avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended to consult an expert glazier prior to installing the flap on a door with a glass front. If you're fitting the flap on the door made of wood, start by the cat with it before you fit it so that they can get used to its shape and size and explore it from all angles.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
It is important to know the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you install is a perfect fit. This will help you ensure that the cat flap is at the right height for the door or window and also that it's large enough to allow him to enter and leave easily.
To do this, lay your pet on their back and run your fingers gently across their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back, face or legs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline Acrobatics.
You can also take into account the weight of your pet to determine how large opening you require. If your cat weighs more than 5Kg, for example the suggested cat flap opening size is 14x12cm.
Measure Your Door or Window
This kind of cat flap, as its name suggests, is designed to be installed into the door. It allows your pet to be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. They are usually made from plastic or aluminium and simply sit in the centre of the door with an open door that is opened by pushing lightly on either side. There are locks on some of these flaps, which provide extra security, so your cat won't be able to simply traverse through the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also frequently employed in windows. They can be easily installed, but they need to be placed at a high level as cats and dogs find it difficult to reach them. If the window is too high to use a cat flap, then ramps, steps, or specially built stairs can be utilized to assist the animal get access to it.
Cat flaps can be installed into a brick wall, however this is not recommended unless you're skilled in masonry work as it could weaken the wall's structure. It's important to check that there aren't any cables and pipes inside the wall before you start. You should always consult a professional if you need to create a hole for pipes and cables. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask will allow you to avoid breathing in the sawdust created when cutting through your walls.
Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.
There are numerous cat flaps available and each one comes with different features. Some cat flaps have security features, such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition which prevent unauthorised entry. They also keep your pet from letting guests or animals to enter the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to keep out water and drafts.
There's also a variety of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, whereas others are circular or square. The type of cat flap you pick will depend on the size of the opening and the type of window or door you're fitting it to.
Last but not least, consider the type of opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. It will not stop other animals and cats from entering, and you could also be letting in draughts.
Once you have selected the right cat flap and measured the window or door then it's time to install it. Mark the belly height of the door using a ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure the line is not too low and is straight on the door. Utilize your spirit level to draw a template of the cat flap. Then, you can use your Jigsaw to cut the outline of the door. When you are satisfied with the result finish sanding the edges and drill through the pencil lines to create holes for screws.
Make the Tools
As with all DIY tasks, it's best to have the appropriate tools for the job. You'll need the cat flap along with an eraser and tape measure along with a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the type of window or door.
If you're installing in a composite door, consult with the manufacturer before making any alterations as this may cause the warranty to be invalidated or break the weathertight seal. In this case, it's likely that you will need to replace the glass with a brand new piece of toughened glass.
For wooden or uPVC doors will require cutting out the design of your cat flap using the Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines provided by the manufacturer. If you can, use a template to help you mark out the size of hole you'll need to cut.
After you've made the hole, you'll need to sand the edges of the opening. This will stop any rust or water damage from happening in the future. You should also cover the holes in your door or window and the back of the flap to keep out rain and wind. After the sealant has dried then you can put up your new cat-flap!
Install the Flap
Installing a flap allows your cat to move around whenever it pleases. It's a simple procedure that most people can complete by themselves, though you may require the assistance of a professional if you are installing the flap in a glass door or other kind of uPVC door.
Begin by studying the instructions that come with your cat flap to locate the template drawing. This will give you an idea of where holes for the flap will need to be drilled into the door. Note the areas you'll need to drill into using a pencil.
After you have mapped out the door's opening, use a jigsaw to cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple job, but you'll require a good understanding of a Jigsaw. Many companies will do this for you for a reasonable price if you are hesitant to take on the task yourself.
Then, attach upvc door panel with cat flap fitted of the door to the hole in your door. You may need to apply sealant before making this move to ensure it is weather and water resistant. The outside of your cat flap can be placed on the bolts on top, and then securing them. It is recommended that you test the flap with your cat to ensure that it works correctly and that they can enter and leave easily through it.