Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap into your home could be a big step for any pet owner. There are many options available to you, regardless of whether your cat is older and needs extra security, or you have kittens who need to be checked.
Installing a cat flap may be daunting for non-professionals however, with the proper instructions, it's not hard to do. The most important thing is planning, preparation and accuracy.
Select the Right Door, or Windows
There are a variety of cat flaps, including some with locks that can be used to prevent your pet from getting out or inside, and others that have modern features such as microchips or a door entry system. It is important to think about how easy it is for your cat to teach to use the flap before you buy and install one.
Based on the style of your house, it's generally best to place the cat flap inside the form of a door or window that opens onto a sheltered area of the garden so your cat will feel secure leaving and entering the home. This will also allow them to return inside in the event of being chased by another animal or human who wants to hurt them.
It's possible to install a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it's not as easy as putting one into a wood door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses, which can affect how holes are cut and the material you're fixing it into.
To avoid costly mistakes It is recommended that you consult an expert glazier prior to installing the flap on a door with a glass front. If you're fitting the flap on an old wooden door, begin by introduction of your cat to it before you fit it to allow them to be familiar with its size and shape and explore it from every angle.
Find out the size of your cat's belly
You'll need the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you install is the perfect fit. This will allow you to make sure that the flap is installed at the right height for the door or window, and also that it's large enough for him to get in and exit easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back, face or limbs. The padding gives your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics felines are famous for.
You can also use the weight of your pet to determine the size of opening you require. If your cat is at or over 5kg, for example that's a 14x12cm flap for your cat is advised.
Make sure you measure your door or window
The name implies, this type of cat flap is designed to be fixed into a door and provides an opportunity for your pet to go in or out at any time it wishes. They are usually made from plastic or aluminium and simply are placed in the middle of the door with an open door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. upvc door panel cat flap are available in locking versions which provide extra security which means that your cat can't walk through the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also commonly used on windows. They are able to be easily installed, however they have to be set at a high level as cats and dogs have a difficult time to reach them. If the window isn't sufficient in height to be used as a cat's flap, then you can opt for ramps, steps or specially designed stairs to assist the animal in reaching it.
It is possible to install a cat flap into the brick wall, however it is not recommended for those who are not experienced in the masonry industry. This could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's essential to make sure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. If they are, there must be a hole made for them. This is something that you should always seek professional advice on. It is also recommended to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust protection mask to avoid breathing in any of the sawdust created by cutting holes in the walls of your home.
Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.
There are numerous cat flaps available and each one comes with different features. Some come with security options such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition to block entry by unauthorized persons and prevent your pet from allowing friends or other animals into the house. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to block out moisture and draughts.
There are different sizes to choose from based on the breed and size of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular while others are square or circular. The type of cat flap you select 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 to open your cat flap will have. The most affordable option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. However, it won't prevent other cats or pets from entering your home and you could be letting draughts in as well.
It's time to install your cat flap. Determine the belly height of the door using a ruler. Make use of a spirit-level to ensure that the line is not too low and is in line with the door. Use your spirit level to draw a template of the cat flap. Then, using the jigsaw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you're happy with the results sand down the edges and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for the screws.
Make the Tools
As with all DIY jobs, it's always recommended to have the right tools for the job. You'll require the cat flap along with an eraser and tape measure as well as a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the type of door or window.
If you're installing in a composite door, you should consult with the manufacturer prior to making any changes since this could affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this case it's likely that you'll need to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.
You'll need to use a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions given by the manufacturer. If possible, use an example to mark out the dimensions of the hole you need to cut.
After you've cut the required hole, you should then smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop any rust or water damage from happening in the near future. It is also recommended to seal the holes in your window or door and the back of the cat flap to block rain and wind. Once the sealant has dried, you can install your cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to come and go whenever it wants, installing flaps can aid. This is a simple process that most people can complete themselves, although you may need to hire an expert if you're installing the flap in a glass door or other kind of uPVC door.
Take a look at the instructions included with the cat flap. There is an illustration of the template. This will give you an idea of where the holes are to be drilled to install the flap to be placed in the door. Mark the areas you'll need to drill into with a pencil.
After you have mapped out the area in your door, use a jigsaw to cut out the design of the cat flap. It is a relatively simple job, but you'll need to be comfortable using a Jigsaw. If you are worried 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 of your door. It might be necessary to seal the flap before you do this to ensure it is waterproof and weatherproof. The outer part of your cat flap may be placed on the bolts' tops and then tightened together. You should test the flap on your cat to make sure that it functions properly and allows them to exit and enter easily.