Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap your home is an excellent option for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and requires additional security, or you have kittens that require a thorough screening, there are a lot of options there for you.
Installing a cat flap could be intimidating for people who aren't professionals, however, with the proper instructions, it's not hard to complete. The key is preparation, planning and precision.
Choose the Right Door or Window
There are a variety of cat flaps, including some with locks that can be used to prevent your pet from getting out or in, while others have high tech features like microchip door entry systems. But, it's important to consider how easy it is for your cat to train to use the flap before you purchase and install one.
Based on the style of your house, it's generally best to situate the cat flap inside an opening or window that opens to a sheltered area of the garden so that your cat is secure when entering and leaving the home. If you can, this will also give them a way back should they be chased by a cat or by humans intent to harm them.
You can install an egress flap inside the form of a uPVC door or glass window however it's not as simple as putting one in the door made of wood. It's because uPVC or composite doors come in various thicknesses. This can impact the way holes are cut, and the material you put into.
If you're installing the flap on glass doors it is recommended that you consult a glazier who specialises in such work to avoid any costly mistakes. If you're fitting the flap into a wooden door you must introduce your cat to it at first to make sure it is familiar with its dimensions and shape.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
In order to put in the right cat flap that's a good fit for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat. This will help you ensure that the flap is at the right height for your window or door and that it's big enough for them to enter and exit easily.
To do this, place your pet on their back and run your fingers gently along their belly. Check for any squishy fat pads - these could be visible on their lower back, face and limbs. The padding gives your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the acrobatics cats are known for.
You can also make use of your pet's weight to gauge how big an opening you need. If your cat weighs more than 5Kg, for example, the suggested cat flap size is 14 x 12cm.
Take a measurement of your door or window
This type of cat flap, as the name suggests is made to be fitted into a door. It allows your pet to be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. These flaps are made of plastic or aluminum and sit in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that opens by lightly pushing on either side. These flaps 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 common place to put a cat flap and these are easy enough to put in, but they are usually placed high up as it's difficult for dogs and cats to reach them otherwise. If the window is not sufficient to accommodate a cat's flap, you can make use of ramps, steps or specially designed stairs to assist the animal in reaching it.
It is possible to put the cat flap onto a brickwall, but it is not recommended for those who are not experienced in brickwork. This could weaken the wall's structure. It's important to check that there are no cables and pipes in the wall prior to you start. If there are, through wall cat flap must be created for them and this is something you should always seek professional advice on. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask can allow you to avoid breathing in the sawdust that is created when cutting into your walls.
Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.
There are many cat flaps that are available on the market, and all offer different features. Some are equipped with security features such as magnetic locks or microchips that prevent unauthorized entry and also stop your pet allowing guests or other animals to enter the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals that keep out the elements of moisture and draughts.
There are various sizes to choose from based on the size and breed of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, 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 installing it to.
Last but not least, take into consideration the kind of opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. The cheapest option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It won't stop other pets and cats from entering however, and you could be letting in draughts.
Once you've selected the right cat flap and measured your door or window then it's time to install it. Start by marking the height of the belly on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit-level to make sure the line isn't too low and is straight on the door. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, using your Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. When you are satisfied with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil marks to create holes for screws.
Prepare the Tools
It's important to have the right tools available when performing any DIY project. You'll need a cat flap, tape measure and pencil as well as a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the kind of door or window.
Contact the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal damaged. In this instance, it's likely that you will need to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass.
For wooden or uPVC doors will require cutting out the shape of your cat flap with the Jigsaw. Follow the directions that are provided by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to mark out the size hole you require.
After you've cut the required hole, you must smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will help prevent the possibility of water damage and rust. Also, you should apply any sealant that is needed to the rear of the cat flap, and to the holes in the door or window to keep out rain and wind. After the sealant has dried it is time to install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to go and come whenever it wants, installing a flap can help. This is a straightforward process that most people can accomplish themselves, although you'll likely need to hire an expert for installing the flap in a glass door or other kind of uPVC door.
Check out the directions included with your cat flap. There is a template drawing. This will provide you with an idea of where holes for the flap have to be drilled into the door. Then, mark the places where you have to drill using the pencil.
After you have marked the area on your door, you can use the jigsaw to cut the shape for the cat flap. This is a relatively simple job, but you'll need to be comfortable using a jigsaw. If you are concerned about doing this yourself, there are a lot of companies that can complete this for you at a low cost.
Then, you can screw the inside part to the hole in your door. It might be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this in order to keep it waterproof and weatherproof. The outer section of your cat flap may be placed on top of the bolts, and then securing them. It is recommended to test the flap with your cat to ensure that it is working properly and that they can enter and leave easily through it.