Fitting a Cat Flap

Getting cat flap installers fitted into your home could be a major step for any pet owner. If fitting a cat flap is old and requires extra security, or you have a new kitten who require a vet check there are a lot of options there for you.
It can be a bit daunting for non-professionals to install a cat flap, but with proper guidelines, it's easy. Planning, preparation and precision are the most important factors.
Choose the Right Door, or Window
There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to prevent your pet from getting out or in, while others have modern features such as microchips or a door entry system. It is important to think about how it is easy to train your cat to use the flap before you purchase and install one.
Depending on the design of your house, it's usually best to place the cat flap near the form of a door or window that opens onto an area that is protected from the garden so your cat can feel safe when going into and out of the house. If you can it will also provide them a way back should they be chased by another cat or by humans intent on harming them.
You can install the cat flap on the form of a uPVC door or a glass window however, it's not as straightforward as fitting one into the door made of wood. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors are available in different thicknesses, which can affect the way holes are cut and what you're fixing into.
If you're installing the flap on glass doors, it's recommended that you consult a glazier who specialises in such work to avoid costly mistakes. If you're installing the flap to the door made of wood, start by introduction of your cat to it prior to fitting it so that they can get used to its shape and size and explore it from every angle.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
You'll need the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you put in is the perfect fit. This will help you ensure that the flap is at the correct height on your door or window and that it's big enough to allow them to get in and out easily.
To do this, lay your pet on their back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back and face, as well as the legs. doors with cat flap provides your pet safety and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the acrobatics cats are famous for.
You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you need. If your cat weighs at or above 5kg in weight for instance, a 14 x 12cm flap for the cat is advised.
Take a measurement of your door or window
The name implies, this type of cat flap is made to be attached to an opening and provide the pet with a way to go in or out at any time it wishes. These flaps are constructed of aluminum or plastic and are located in the middle of the door. They have a two-way swinging opening that can be opened by gently pushing on either side. They are available in locking versions which provide extra security so your cat cannot simply enter the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also frequently used on windows. They are able to be easily installed, but they have to be placed at a high level as cats and dogs find it difficult to reach them. If the window is not sufficient in height to be used as a cat's flap, then you can make use of steps, ramps or specially designed stairs to assist the animal in reaching it.
It is possible to insert an egress into a brickwall, but it is not recommended for people who are not experienced in the masonry industry. This could cause the wall to weaken. It is important to make sure there are no cables and pipes inside the wall before you begin. If there are, then an opening must be created for them and this is something you should always seek expert advice on. Wearing protective glasses or a dust mask will allow you to avoid breathing in the sawdust that is created when you cut into your walls.
Choose the right cat flap
There are many different cat flaps available and each one comes with different features. Some have security options like magnetic locks or microchip recognition to block entry by unauthorized persons and restrict your pet from letting pets or friends into the home. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to keep out moisture and draughts.
There's also a variety of sizes, 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 type of window or door you're fitting it to.
Last but not least, take into consideration the kind of opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. A simple aluminum or plastic swing-out door is one choice and is typically the cheapest. But, it will not stop other pets or cats from entering your home and you could let draughts in as well.
After you've chosen the correct cat flap and measured your door or window then it's time to install it. Determine the belly height of the door using your ruler. Make use of a spirit-level to make sure the line is not too low and that it is straight across the door. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Next, use your saw to cut out the outline of the door. Once you're happy with the results sand down the edges and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for the screws.
Make sure you have the tools ready
Like all DIY jobs, it's always advisable to make sure you have the right tools for the job. You'll need a cat flap along with an eraser and tape measure, a spirit-level, a drill and a jigsaw depending on the kind of window or door.
Consult the manufacturer before making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal broken. In this scenario, it's likely that you'll have to replace the glass with a brand new piece of toughened glass.
For wooden or uPVC doors you'll need to cut out the shape of your cat flap using a jigsaw and follow the instructions given by the manufacturer. If you can, use an outline to help mark out the dimensions of the hole you'll will need to cut.
After you've made the hole, you must sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will prevent the possibility of water damage and rust. Finally, you should apply any sealant that is needed to the back of the cat flap and to the holes in the door or window to keep out rain and wind. After the sealant has dried then you're now ready to put in your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
Fitting a flap will allow your cat to come and go whenever it pleases. The majority of people can install the flap by themselves. However should you wish to install it in glass or uPVC type door, you may require an expert.
Begin by reading the instructions that come with your cat flap to locate the template drawing. This will provide you with an idea of where the holes for the flap will need to be drilled into the door. Mark the areas you will need to drill in with the pencil.
Once you have marked out the area in your door then use a jigsaw cut out the shape of the cat flap. It's a relatively easy task, but you'll need to be comfortable using the jigsaw. If you're worried about doing this yourself, there are plenty of businesses that can handle this for you at a minimal cost.
Then, you can screw the inside part to the hole of your door. It might be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this, in order to keep it waterproof and weatherproof. You can then place the outer section of the flap on top of the fixing bolts and then tighten the bolts all together. It is recommended that you test the flap with your cat to make sure that it functions properly and that they are able to move easily through it.