Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap inside your home can be a big step for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and requires additional security, or you have new kittens who require a vet check, there are plenty of options there to choose from.
Installing a cat flap can be a daunting task for novices, however, with the proper instructions, it's not difficult to complete. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the key to success.
Choose the Right Door, or Window
There are a variety of cat flaps to choose from that come with locks (which can be used to stop your pet going out or coming in) and others with high-tech features such as microchips for door entry systems. It is important to consider how easy it will be to teach your cat to use the flap, before you purchase and install one.
Depending on the design of your home, it's usually best to put the cat flap near a window or door that opens onto a sheltered area of the garden, so that your cat is secure when leaving and entering the home. If possible this will also allow them a route back in should they be pursued by a different cat or by a human intent to hurt them.
It is possible to install a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as simple as installing one on a wooden door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors are available in different thicknesses, and this can impact the way holes are cut and the materials you're fixing them into.
To avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended to consult a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you're fitting the flap onto a wooden door, you should introduce your cat to it first so that it can become familiar with its dimensions and shape.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
You'll need your cat's measurements to ensure that the cat flap you choose to install is a perfect fit. This will help you make sure that the flap is at the correct height on the window or door, and that it is large enough for him to get in and out easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Look for cat flap cover for winter Repair My Windows And Doors that is squishy around the lower back, face or legs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline circus skills.
Alternately, you could use your pet's weight to determine the size of an opening you'll need. If your cat is up to 5Kg in weight for instance, a 14 x 12cm flap for the cat is advised.
Make sure you measure your door or window
This kind of cat flap, as its name suggests is designed to be installed into a door. It lets your pet enter and exit at its convenience. They are typically made of plastic or aluminium and simply are placed in the middle of the door with an open door that opens by pressing lightly on either side. There are locks on some of these flaps that offer additional security to ensure that your cat isn't able to walk through from the outside.
Cat flaps are also commonly used on windows. They are easy to be installed, but they need to be set at a high level as cats and dogs find it difficult to get them. If the window isn't sufficient to accommodate a cat's flap, you can opt for steps, ramps or stairs that are specially designed to aid the animal in getting to it.
Cat flaps can be incorporated into a brick wall but this is not recommended unless you're familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it's essential to ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. Always consult an expert when you need to create a hole for pipes or cables. It is also recommended to wear safety goggles and a dust protection mask to prevent inhaling any sawdust generated by cutting through your home's 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 microchips that stop unauthorized entry and prevent your pet from allowing guests or other animals to enter the house. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to block out the elements and keep out drafts.
There are also different sizes that are available based on the breed and size of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, whereas others are square or circular. The best type of cat flap will be dictated by the space you have available as well as the type of door or window you want to attach it to.
The last thing to do is consider the type of opening mechanism your cat flap will use. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. It won't prevent other animals and cats from entering however, and you could be letting in draughts.
It's time to install your cat flap. Determine the belly height of the door using a ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is sitting straight against the door and not too low. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, use a saw to cut out the outline of the door. When you are satisfied with the result finish sanding the edges and drill through the pencil markings to make holes for screws.
Prepare the Tools
Like any DIY jobs, it's always recommended to have the proper tools to complete the task. The most essential things you'll need are the cat flap as well as a tape measure, an excellent pencil and a spirit level a file, drill and the jigsaw (depending on your window or door type).
If you're installing a composite door, check with the manufacturer prior to making any alterations since this could invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this scenario it's likely you will need to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass.
You'll need to use an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. Use a template to mark the size hole you'll require.
After you've cut the hole, you'll need to sand the edges of the opening. This will prevent the possibility of water damage and rust. Finally, you should apply any sealant that is needed to the rear of the cat flap as well as to the holes in the door or window to block rain and wind. Once the sealant has dried then you can put up your new cat-flap!
Install the Flap
Installing a flap allows your cat to go and come whenever it pleases. Most people can put in the flap by themselves. However should you wish to put it in a glass or uPVC type door, you may require an expert.
Check out the directions that came with the cat flap. There is an illustration of the template. This will provide you with an idea of where holes for the flap need to be drilled in the door. Mark the areas you'll need to drill into using pencil.
After you have mapped out the door's area and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task, 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 very low cost.
The next step is to screw the inner part of the flap onto the door's hole. You may need to apply sealant prior to making this move to ensure it stays watertight and weather resistant. The outside of your cat flap can be placed on the bolts on top, and then tightened together. It is recommended to test the flap using your cat to make sure that it is working properly and that they can move easily through it.