Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is a great step for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have new kittens that require a thorough screening There are a lot of options there for you.
Installing a cat flap could be daunting for non-professionals but with the right instructions, it's not difficult to complete. Planning, preparation and precision are the key to success.
Select the Right Door or Window
There are a wide variety of cat flaps that are available that come with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from going out or entering) and others that have high-tech features such as microchip door entry systems. It is important to think about how it is easy to teach your cat how to use the flap, before you buy and install one.
It is recommended to put the cat flap, depending on the style of your home, in an opening that leads into an area of the garden that is protected. This will help your cat feel secure when entering and leaving your home. If you can, this will also give them a way back should they get chased by a cat or by humans who are intent to harm them.
It is possible to install the cat flap on a uPVC door or glass window, but it's not as straightforward as fitting one into a wooden door. It's because uPVC or composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses. This could affect the way holes are cut, and the type of door you can fix 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 fitting the flap on an old wooden door, begin by the cat with it prior to fitting it to allow them to become familiar with its size and shape and explore it from all angles.
Find out the size of your cat's belly
In order to install the right 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 correct height on your door or window and that it's large enough to allow them to get in and out easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back or face, or around the legs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline Acrobatics.
You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine the size of opening you require. If your cat weighs at or over 5kg, for example that's a 14x12cm cat flap opening is recommended.
Take a measurement of your door or window
This kind of cat flap, as the name suggests, is made to be fitted into the door. It allows your pet to be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. They are typically made of plastic or aluminium and simply sit in the centre of the door. They come with an open door that is opened by pushing lightly on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps, which provide extra security, so your cat can't simply walk through from the outside.
A window is another common location for a cat flap, and they're easy enough to put in, but they usually need to be located high enough as it's difficult for dogs and cats to access them. If the window is too high to use a cat flap then ramps, steps or specially constructed stairs can be used to help the animal access it.
It is possible to insert a cat flap into the brick wall, however it is not recommended for people who aren't familiar with brickwork. This could weaken the structure of the wall. It is essential to ensure that there aren't any cables and pipes inside the wall before you begin. Always consult a professional if you need to create a hole for cables and pipes. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask will ensure that you don't breathe in the sawdust that is created when cutting through your walls.
Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.
There are numerous cat flaps on the market and they all have various features. Some come with security options such as magnetic locks or microchips that stop unauthorized entry and prevent your pet from allowing friends or other animals into the house. Some have weatherproof seals and insulation to block out draughts and moisture.
There's also a range of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, whereas others are circular or square. Choosing the right type of cat flap will be determined by the space you have available and the kind of door or window you intend to install it on.
The last thing to do is consider the type of opening mechanism your cat flap will use. A simple aluminium or plastic swing-out door is one alternative and is usually the cheapest. However, it won't stop other pets or cats from entering and you may be letting draughts in too.
It's time to install your cat flap. Begin by marking the height of the belly on the door with your ruler. Use 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. Next, 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 make holes for screws.
Make the Tools
It is essential to have the right tools available when doing any DIY project. The most essential things you'll need are the cat flap as well as a tape measure, an excellent pencil as well as a spirit level, drill, file, and the jigsaw (depending on the windows or doors).
If you're installing in a composite door, check with the manufacturer prior to making any alterations as this may invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this instance, you'll probably have to install an additional pane of toughened glass instead.
For wooden or uPVC doors you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap using a Jigsaw. Follow the directions that are provided by the manufacturer. If possible, use an example to identify the size of the hole you will need to cut.
After you've made the hole, you'll need to sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop any water damage or rust from happening in the future. It is also recommended to seal the holes in your door or window and the back of the flap to block rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry then you can put up your cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to come and go whenever it wants, installing a flap can help. This is a straightforward process that most people can do themselves, although you may require the assistance of a professional if you are installing the flap on an unglazed door or any other type of uPVC door.
Check out the directions included with your cat flap. You will find a drawing of the template. This will give you an idea of where holes for the flap have to be drilled in the door. Note the areas you'll need to drill into using the pencil.
Once you have marked out the door's opening then use a jigsaw cut out the design of the cat flap. It is a relatively simple task, but you will need to be comfortable using a Jigsaw. If you are concerned about doing this yourself, there are many companies that can do this for you at a low cost.
Then, attach the outer part to the hole in your door. You may need to apply sealant prior to doing this to ensure that it remains weather-proof and water resistant. The outside of your cat flap may be placed on the bolts' tops and then tightened together. It is recommended that you test the cat flap with your cat to make sure that it works correctly and that they can get in and out of it.