Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap into your home could be a major step for any pet owner. There are many options available for you, no matter if your cat is getting older and requires extra security or you have kittens that need to be checked.
It can be a bit daunting for non-professionals to install a cat flap, but with proper instructions, it's simple. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and precision.
Select the Right Door or Windows
There are many different types of cat flaps, some with locks that can be used to keep your pet from getting out or in and others with modern features such as microchips or a door entry systems. But, it's important to consider how easy it is for your cat to teach 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 in a window or door that opens onto an area of protection in the garden so that your cat is secure when entering and leaving the home. This will also enable them to go back inside if they are chased by other animals or humans who want to harm them.
You can install an egress flap inside the form of a uPVC door or a glass window however, it's not as straightforward as putting one in a wooden door. This is because uPVC or composite doors come in different thicknesses. This can affect the how holes are cut and the type of door you can fix into.
To avoid costly errors to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended to consult a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If you're fitting the flap on an old wooden door, begin by introducing your cat to it before you fit it so that they can become familiar with its shape and size and explore it from every angle.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
You'll need your cat's measurements to ensure that the cat flap you install is the perfect fit. This will enable you to ensure that your cat flap is at the right height on the door or window and that it is large enough for him to enter and out easily.
To do this, lay your pet on their back and run your fingers gently along their belly. Look for a fat pad that is squishy around the lower back and face, as well as the legs. The padding provides your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics that felines are famous for.
You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you need. If your cat weighs more than 5Kg, for example, the suggested cat flap size is 14 x 12cm.
Measure Your Door or Window
Like the name suggests the cat flap is made to be attached to an opening and provide a way for your pet to go in or out as it pleases. These flaps are made of plastic or aluminum and are placed in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that is opened by gently pressing on either side. They are available with locking options that offer added security, which means that your cat can't traverse the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also commonly employed in windows. They are able to be easily installed, but they have to be installed at an elevated level since cats and dogs find it difficult to get them. If the window is too high for a cat flap, steps, ramps or purpose built stairs can be utilized to assist the animal get access to it.
It is possible to insert an egress into the brick wall, however it is not recommended for people who aren't experienced in brickwork. This could cause the wall to weaken. Before you begin, it's important to make sure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. If window cat flap are, an opening must be created for them and this is something that you should always seek expert advice on. It is also recommended to wear protective goggles and a dust-proof mask to prevent inhaling any sawdust generated by cutting holes in the walls of your home.
Choose the right cat flap
There are numerous cat flaps on the market, and they have various features. Some come with security options such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by unauthorized persons and restrict your pet from letting friends or other animals into the home. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to block out moisture and draughts.
There are various sizes to choose from based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are square or circular. The kind of cat flap you choose will depend on the size of the opening and the kind of door or window you're fixing it to.
The last thing to do is take into consideration the kind of opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. A simple aluminium or plastic swing-out door is an choice and is typically the cheapest. It won't prevent other cats and pets from entering, and you could also be letting in drafts.
It's time to put in your cat flap. Begin by marking the height of the belly on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is straight against the door and not too low. Utilize your spirit level to draw a template of the cat flap. Then, using your saw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you're happy with the results sand down the edges and then drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.
Make the Tools
It's important to have the right tools available when doing any DIY project. The most essential things you'll need are the cat flap as well as a tape measure, a decent pencil as well as a spirit level, drill, file, and the Jigsaw (depending on your windows or doors).
Contact the manufacturer prior to making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to be damaged. In this instance it's likely that you will need to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.
You'll require an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions given by the manufacturer. Make use of a template to mark out the size hole you'll need.
After you've cut the required hole, you'll need to sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will help prevent the possibility of water damage and rust. Also, you should apply any necessary sealant to the rear of the cat flap, and to the holes in the window or door to keep out rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry then you're now ready to put in your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
Installing a flap allows your cat to come and go whenever it wants. It's a simple procedure that most people can complete on their own, but you will likely require the assistance of an expert for installing the flap on an unglazed door or any other type of uPVC door.
Begin by studying the instructions included with your cat flap to find the template. This will give you an idea of where the holes for the flap have to be drilled into the door. Note the areas you'll have to drill using pencil.
After you've marked the door's area then use a jigsaw cut out the design of the cat flap. It's a relatively easy task however, you'll need to be comfortable using the saw. Many companies will complete this work for you for a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to do it yourself.
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 portion of the cat flap on the top of the fixing bolts and tighten them all together. It is recommended that you test the flap using your cat to make sure that it functions properly and that they are able to enter and leave easily through it.