Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap inside your home can be a huge step for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have a new kitten who require a vet check, there are plenty of options there for you.
Installing a cat flap can be daunting for non-professionals but with the right instructions, it's not difficult to do. The most important thing is planning, preparation and accuracy.
Choose the Right Door or Window
There are many different types of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to keep your pet from leaving or in, while others have modern features such as microchips or a door entry systems. It's important to think about how easy it will be to teach your cat how to use the flap before you purchase and install one.
It is best to place the cat flap, based on the style of your home, in a window that opens into an area of the garden that is protected. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering and leaving your home. This will also enable them to return inside in the event of being chased by another animal or humans who want to hurt them.
You can install the cat flap on a uPVC door or a glass window however it's not as straightforward as putting one in wooden doors. It's because uPVC or composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses. This can impact the way holes are cut, and what you fix into.
If you're installing the flap in the glass of a door it is recommended that you consult a glazier who specialises in such work to avoid costly mistakes. If you're installing the flap on a wooden door, start by introducing your cat to it prior to fitting it, so that they get used to its size and shape and explore it from all angles.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
In order to put in the right cat flap that's the right size for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is at the right height on your door or window and that it's large enough to allow them to enter and exit easily.
To do this, place your pet on their back and gently rub your fingers across their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back or face, or around the limbs. The padding provides your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics felines are known for.
You can also use your pet's weight to gauge how big an opening you need. If your cat weighs at or above 5kg in weight for instance an opening of 14 x 12cm flap for the cat is advised.
Make sure you measure your door or window
As the name suggests, this type of cat flap is designed to be affixed to a door and provides a way for your pet to leave or enter at any time it wishes. These flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that opens by gently pushing on either side. They are available with locking options that provide additional security so that your cat is not able to enter the door from outside.
A window is another popular location for a cat flap, and they're easy enough to install, though they usually need to be located high enough as it's difficult for cats and dogs to reach them otherwise. If the window isn't sufficient in height to be used as the flap for cats, you can opt for ramps, steps, or stairs that are specially designed to aid the animal in getting to it.
It is possible to install an egress into brick walls, however it is not recommended for people who aren't experienced in masonry. This could cause the wall to weaken. Before you begin, it's essential to ensure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. If there are, then there must be a hole made for them. This is something you should always seek expert advice on. It's also advisable to wear protective goggles and a dust protection mask to avoid inhaling any sawdust generated by cutting through the walls of your home.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are a variety of cat flaps on the market, and have various features. Some cat flaps have security features, such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry. They also prevent your pet from letting guests or animals to enter the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals that keep out draughts and moisture.
There are different sizes available depending on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular, while others are square or circular. The type of cat flap you pick will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the kind of door or window you're fixing it to.
Also consider the mechanism for opening your cat flap is likely to have. A simple aluminum or plastic swing-out door is an alternative and is usually the least expensive. But, it will not stop other pets or cats from entering your home and you could let draughts in as well.
It's time to install your cat flap. Begin by marking the belly height on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is sitting exactly on the door and not too low. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, use a saw to cut out the outline of the door. Once you are satisfied with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil marks to create holes for screws.
Make the Tools
Like any DIY tasks, it's recommended to have the right tools to complete the task. You'll require the cat flap, an eraser and tape measure, a spirit-level, a drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the kind 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 broken. In this instance, it's likely that you'll need to replace the glass with a brand new piece of toughened glass.
You'll need an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the instructions given by the manufacturer. Make cat flap fitting near me of a template to determine the size of hole you require.
After you've cut the required hole, you'll need to smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will prevent any water damage or rust from happening in the near future. You should also cover the holes in your door or window and the back of the flap to prevent rain and wind. After the sealant has dried it is time to install your new cat-flap!
Install the Flap
The installation of a flap will allow your cat to come and go whenever it wants. This is a straightforward process that most people can accomplish on their own, but you'll likely require the assistance of a professional if you are installing the flap on a glass door or other type of uPVC door.
Look at the instructions included with the cat flap. You will find a template drawing. This will give you an idea of where holes for the flap have to be drilled in the door. Mark the areas you'll need to drill into with the pencil.
After you have marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw to cut the shape for the cat flap. This is a relatively easy job, but you'll need to be comfortable using the jigsaw. If you are concerned about doing it yourself, there are plenty of companies that can complete this for you at a low cost.
The next step is to screw the inner part of the flap onto the hole in your door. It is possible to seal the flap prior to you do this in order to ensure it is waterproof and weatherproof. The outer section of your cat flap may be placed on the bolts' tops and then tacked together. It is recommended that you test the flap with your cat to make sure that it works correctly and that they are able to enter and leave easily through it.