Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap your home is an excellent option for any pet owner. There are numerous options to you, regardless of whether your cat is getting older and requires extra security or you have kittens who need to be examined.
It can be intimidating for those who aren't professionals to put in an animal flap, but with right instructions it's easy. Planning, preparation and precision are the key to success.
Choose the Right Door or Window
There are a variety of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to stop your pet from going out or inside, and others that have advanced features like microchips for door entry systems. But, it's important to think about the ease of your cat to train to use the flap prior to making a purchase and install one.
It is recommended to put the cat flap, depending on the design of your home, inside a window that opens into a sheltered garden area. This will help your cat feel secure when entering or leaving your home. If you can this will also allow them a way back should they get chased by a cat or by humans intent on harming them.
You can put a cat flap in the case of a uPVC door or a glass window, but it's not as easy as putting one in wooden doors. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors come in various thicknesses, which affect the way holes are cut as well as the materials you're fixing them to.
If you're installing the flap in glass doors it is recommended to seek out a glazier that is skilled in such work to avoid costly mistakes. If you are fitting the flap into a wooden door it is recommended that you introduce your cat first to ensure that it becomes familiar with its dimensions and shape.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
To install a cat flap that's a good fit for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's size. This will ensure that the flap is at the correct height on your door or window, and that it's wide enough to allow them to get in and exit with ease.
To do this, lay your pet on their back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Look for a fat pad that is squishy around the lower back or face, or around the legs. browse around here protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline acrobatics.
Alternatively, you can also use your pet's weight to gauge how big an opening you require. If your cat weighs more than 5Kg, for example, the suggested cat flap size is 14 x 12cm.
Measure Your Door or Window
As the name suggests, this type of cat flap is designed to be fixed into a door and provides the pet with a way to go in or out whenever it wants. These flaps are constructed of plastic or aluminum and are placed in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that can be opened by gently pushing on either side. These flaps can be locked that provide additional security so your cat cannot simply traverse the door from outside.
A window is another popular 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 isn't high enough to use a cat's flap, then you can make use of ramps, steps, or stairs that are specially designed to help the animal reach it.
It is possible to install an egress into a brickwall, but it is not recommended for those who are not experienced in brickwork. This could cause the wall to weaken. It is important to make sure there aren't any cables or pipes within the wall before you begin. You should always consult an expert if you have to cut a hole in the wall for pipes or cables. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask can ensure that you don't breathe in the sawdust that is created when you cut into your walls.
Choose the right cat flap
There are a variety of cat flaps that are available on the market, and they all offer different features. Certain cat flaps come with security features such as magnetic locks or microchips that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also stop your pet from allowing friends or another animal into the home. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals that keep out water and drafts.
There are various sizes available depending on the breed and size of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular, while others are square or circular. Choosing the right type of cat flap will be dictated by the space available and the kind of window or door you intend to install it on.
Last but not least, think about the opening mechanism your cat flap will use. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. However, it will not prevent other cats or pets from entering your home and you could let draughts in as well.
Once you have selected the correct cat flap and measured the windows or doors and window, it's now time to put it in place it. Make a mark on the belly of the door with your ruler. Make use of a spirit-level to make sure the line is not too low and is in line with the door. Use your spirit level to draw a template for the cat flap. Then, using a Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. Once you are satisfied with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil markings to make holes for screws.
Prepare the Tools
It's important to have the right tools when performing any DIY project. The most essential things you'll need are the cat flap itself along with a tape measure, a good pencil, a spirit level, a file, drill and the jigsaw (depending on the window or door type).
Consult the manufacturer before making any changes to a door made of composite. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal to be broken. In this case, you'll probably need to fit a new pane of toughened glass instead.
You'll require an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions given by the manufacturer. Make use of a template to determine the size of hole you'll need.
After you've cut the required hole, you'll need to sand down the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will help prevent the possibility of water damage and rust. In the end, you must apply any sealant you require to the rear of the cat flap and to the holes in the door or window to block rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry then you're now ready to put in your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to move around at will, installing flaps can aid. Most people can put in the flap by themselves. However, if you want to put it in glass or uPVC type door, you may require a professional.
Begin by reading the instructions provided with the flap to locate the template drawing. This will provide you with an idea of where the holes for the flap will need to be drilled into the door. Note the areas you'll need to drill in using pencil.
Once you have marked out the door's area then use a jigsaw cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task however, you'll need to be comfortable using a jigsaw. If you're worried about doing it yourself, there are a lot of businesses that can handle this for you at a low cost.
The next step is to attach the interior part of the cat flap to the hole in your door. It is possible to apply sealant before making this move to ensure it remains weather-proof and water resistant. You can then put the outer part of the flap on top of the fixing bolts, and tighten the bolts all together. It is recommended that you test the cat flap with your cat to ensure that it functions properly and that they are able to enter and leave easily through it.