Fitting a Cat Flap

Getting a cat flap fitted in to your home can be a huge step for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and requires extra security, or you have kittens that need to be vetted, there are plenty of options out there to choose from.
It can be a bit daunting for people who aren't experts in installing the cat flap, but with right instructions it's easy. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the most important factors.
Select the Right Door or Window
There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, including some with locks that can be used to prevent your pet from leaving or inside, and others that have advanced features like microchips for door entry system. It is important to think about how it is easy to train your cat to use the flap before you buy and install one.
Depending on the style of your house, it's generally best to situate the cat flap inside the form of a door or window that opens out into a sheltered area of the garden so that 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 humans who want to hurt them.
You can install the cat flap on a uPVC door or glass window however it's not as simple as fitting one into the door made of wood. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors come in different thicknesses, and this can impact how holes are cut and the material you're fixing it to.
To avoid costly errors, 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 an existing wooden door you must introduce your cat first so that it can become familiar with its size and shape.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
In order to put in an appropriate cat flap that is a good fit for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat's height. This will help you ensure that the flap is at the right height for your door or window, and that it's big enough for them to enter and exit with ease.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers over their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back and face, as well as the legs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline Acrobatics.
You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you need. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg, for example the suggested cat flap opening size is 14 x 12cm.
Measure Your Door or Window
This type of cat flap, as its name suggests is designed to be installed into the door. It allows your pet to be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. They are typically made of aluminum or plastic and sit in the centre of the door. They come with a two-way swinging door that is opened by pushing lightly on either side. They are available in locking versions which provide extra security so that your cat is not able to walk through the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also frequently used in windows. They can be easily installed, but they have to be placed at a height where cats and dogs have a difficult time to reach them. If the window is not sufficient to accommodate 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 the cat flap onto brick walls, however it is not recommended for those who are not experienced in brickwork. This could cause the wall to weaken. Before you begin, it is important to ensure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. If there are, then a hole needs to 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 that is created by cutting into the walls of your house.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are many different cat flaps available and each one comes with different features. Certain cat flaps come with security features, such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also stop your pet from letting friends or animals to enter the house. Some have weatherproof seals and insulation to block out draughts and moisture.
There are various sizes available depending on the breed and size of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, while others are square or circular. Selecting the best cat flap will be dictated by the space available and the type of door or window you want to attach it to.
The last thing to do is think about the opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. It won't stop other cats and pets from entering however, and you could be letting in drafts.
It's time to install your cat flap. Determine the belly height of the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is straight against the door and not too low. Use your spirit level to draw a template of the cat flap. Then, you can use your Jigsaw to cut the outline in the door. When you are satisfied with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil marks to create holes for screws.
Make the Tools
It's essential to have the right tools available when undertaking any DIY project. You'll need the cat flap as well as an eraser and tape measure along with a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the kind of window or door.
Contact the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a door made of composite. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal damaged. In this scenario it's likely that you'll need 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 the jigsaw and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. If possible, use an outline to help identify the dimensions of the hole you'll have to cut.
After you've made the hole, you should then sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This should prevent any rust or water damage from happening in the near future. cat flap installation in glass doors near me should also seal the holes in your door or window and the side of the flap to block wind and rain. When the sealant has dried and dry, you can install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to come and go at will, installing a flap can help. This is a simple process that most people can do on their own, but you'll likely require the help of an expert if you're installing the flap on an unglazed door or any other type of uPVC door.
Take a look at the instructions that came with the cat flap. You will find a template drawing. This will provide you with an idea of where the holes for the flap have to be drilled in the door. Note replacement upvc door panels with cat flap 'll have to drill with the pencil.
After you have marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw to cut the shape for the cat flap. This is a relatively simple task however you'll need be comfortable with a jigsaw. Many companies will complete this for you for a reasonable price If you're not sure how to take on the task yourself.
Next, you will need to attach the inside of the flap onto the door's hole. You may need to apply sealant prior to doing this to ensure that it is weather and water resistant. The outside of your cat flap can be placed on the bolts on top, and then securing them. You must test the cat flap on your cat to make sure that it is working correctly and that it allows them to exit and enter easily.