Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap your home is a fantastic step for any pet owner. There are a variety of options for you, no matter if your cat is old and needs extra security, or you have kittens who need to be examined.
It can be difficult for those who aren't professionals to put in an animal flap, but with right instructions it's easy. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the key to success.
Choose the Right Door or Windows
There are many different types of cat flaps, including some with locks that can be used to stop your pet from going out or inside, and others that have modern features such as microchips or a door entry system. However, it's important to consider the ease of your cat to teach to use the flap prior to making a purchase and install one.
It is best to place the cat flap, depending on the style of your home, inside a window that opens into a garden that is sheltered. This will help your cat feel safe when entering or leaving your home. If possible this will also allow them a route back in should they get pursued by a different cat or by humans who are intent on harming them.
It is possible to install the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't the same as fitting one on a wooden door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors are available in various thicknesses, which can affect how holes are cut and the material you're fixing it into.
To avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended to consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If you're installing the flap in the door made of wood, start by the cat with it before you fit it, so that they be familiar with its shape and size, and explore it from all angles.
Find out the size of your cat's belly
In order to install a cat flap that's suitable for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat's size. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is the right height for your window or door and that it's large enough for them to enter and exit with ease.
To do this, lay your pet on their back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back and face, as well as the limbs. The padding provides your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics that felines are famous for.
You can also use the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you require. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg, for example the suggested cat flap opening size is 14x12cm.
Measure your window or door
As the name suggests, this type of cat flap is made to be attached to a door and provides an opportunity for your pet to go in or out at any time it wishes. They are typically made of aluminum or plastic and rest in the middle of the door. They have the possibility of a swinging door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. These flaps are available with locking options which provide extra security so that your cat is not able to walk through the door from outside.
A window is another popular location for a cat flap, and they're easy enough to fit, although they often need to be located high enough as it's difficult for cats and dogs to reach them otherwise. If the window is not sufficient to accommodate a cat's flap, you can use steps, ramps or stairs that are specially designed to aid the animal in getting to it.
It is possible to put an egress into the brick wall, however it is not recommended for those who aren't experienced in the masonry industry. This could cause the wall to weaken. It is essential to ensure that there aren't any cables and pipes within the wall before you begin. It is recommended to consult a professional if you need to cut a hole in the wall for pipes and cables. It's also advisable to wear safety goggles and a dust protection mask to prevent inhaling any sawdust that is created by cutting into your home's walls.
Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.
There are a variety of cat flaps available on the market, and all offer various features. Certain cat flaps come with security features like microchip recognition or magnetic locks which prevent unauthorised entry. They also stop your pet from allowing friends or other animals into the house. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to keep out the elements and keep out drafts.
There's also a range of sizes, based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular, while others are square or circular. The kind of cat flap you choose will depend on the size of the opening and the kind of door or window you're installing it to.
Lastly consider the mechanism to open your cat flap will have. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. But, it will not stop other pets or cats from gaining access and you could let draughts in as well.
After you've chosen the correct cat flap and measured your window or door and window, it's now time to put it in place it. Begin by marking the belly height on the door with a ruler. Make use of a spirit-level to ensure that the line is not too low and that it is straight across the door. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, using your saw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you are satisfied with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.
Prepare the Tools
As with all DIY jobs, it's always best to have the proper tools to complete the task. You'll need a cat flap, tape measure and pencil along with a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the type of door or window.
Consult the manufacturer before making any changes to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to be broken. In this case you'll have to install a new pane of toughened glass instead.
You'll require the jigsaw to cut your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions given by the manufacturer. Make use of a template to mark out the size hole you'll require.
After you've made the hole, you'll have to sand off the edges of the opening. This should prevent any rust or water damage from happening in the near future. It is also recommended to seal the holes in your door or window and the back of the flap to block wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry, you can install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
Fitting a flap will allow your cat to come and go whenever it pleases. Most people can install the flap by themselves. However should you wish to put it in the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you might need an expert.
Begin by reading the instructions that come with the flap to locate the template drawing. This will give an idea of the location where holes need to be made for the flap on the door. Then, mark the places where you need to drill with a pencil.
After you've marked the door's area, use a jigsaw to cut out the shape of the cat flap. It is a relatively simple task, but you will have to be comfortable using the saw. doors with cat flap will do this work for you at a reasonable price if you are hesitant to tackle it yourself.
Then, attach the outer part to the hole in your door. It may be necessary to seal the flap before you do this, in order to keep it waterproof and weatherproof. You can then put the outer part of the flap on top of the fixing bolts and then tighten the bolts all together. You must test the cat flap on your cat to confirm that it functions properly and allows them to enter and exit easily.