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 additional security, or you have new kittens that require a thorough screening There are a lot of options there for you.
Installing a cat flap can be a daunting task for novices, but with the right instructions, it's not difficult to accomplish. The most important thing is planning, preparation and precision.
Choose the Right Door or Window
There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, some with locks that can be used to keep your pet from getting out or in, while others have high tech features like microchip door entry system. It is important to think about the ease of your cat to teach to use the flap before you purchase and fit one.
Based on the style of your home, it's generally best to place the cat flap in a window or door that opens onto an area that is protected from the garden, so that your cat is secure when leaving and entering the home. If possible this will also allow them a way back case they are chased by another cat or by a human intent on harming them.
It's possible to install a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it's not the same as fitting one into a wood door. This is because uPVC and composite doors are available in various thicknesses, which can affect how holes are cut and the material you're fixing it into.
If you're installing the flap in glass doors, it's recommended that you seek out a glazier that is skilled in this type of work to avoid any costly mistakes. If you're fitting the flap onto the door made of wood you must introduce your cat to it at first so that it can become familiar with its size and shape.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
You'll need your cat's measurements to ensure that the cat flap you install is a perfect fit. This will allow you to make sure that the flap is installed at the correct height on the window or door, and that it is large enough to allow him to enter and leave easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back or face, or around the legs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline Acrobatics.
Alternately, you could make use of your pet's weight to determine the size of the opening you require. If your cat weighs 5kg, for instance the suggested cat flap size is 14 x 12cm.
Make sure you measure your window or door
The name implies this kind of cat flap is designed to be fixed into an opening and provide a way for your pet to enter or leave as it pleases. These flaps are constructed of plastic or aluminum and sit in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that can be opened by lightly pushing on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps that offer added security so your cat won't be able to simply enter the door from the outside.
Cat flaps are also commonly used in windows. They can be easily installed, however they have to be placed at a height where cats and dogs have a difficult time to get them. If the window is not sufficient to accommodate a cat's flap, you can use ramps, steps, or specially designed stairs to assist the animal in reaching it.
A cat flap can be installed to a brick wall, but this is not recommended unless you're experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the structure of the wall. It is important to make sure there aren't any cables and pipes within the wall before you begin. If there are, then there must be a hole made for them. This is something that you should always seek professional advice on. Wearing protective glasses or a dust mask can ensure that you don't breathe in the sawdust created when cutting into your walls.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are numerous cat flaps on the market, and come with various features. Some cat flaps have security features like microchip recognition or magnetic locks that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also stop your pet from allowing friends or other animals into the home. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to keep out moisture and draughts.
There's also a range of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular while others are square or circular. The type of cat flap you pick will depend on the size of the opening and the type of window or door you're installing it to.
The last thing to do is take into consideration the kind of opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. The cheapest option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. But, it will not stop other pets or cats from entering and you may let draughts in as well.
It's time to install your cat flap. Start by marking the belly's height on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is straight on the door and not too low. Use your spirit level to draw a template of the cat flap. Then, you can use your saw to cut out the outline in the door. When you're satisfied with the result, sand the edges and then drill through the pencil lines to make holes for the screws.
Make sure you have the tools ready
Like all DIY tasks, it's advisable to make sure you have the appropriate tools for the job. The most essential things you'll need are the cat flap as well as a tape measure, an excellent pencil as well as a spirit level, a file, drill and a jigsaw (depending on the windows or doors).
Check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal to be damaged. In this scenario it's likely you'll have to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass.
For wooden or uPVC doors will require cutting out the shape of your cat flap using a jigsaw and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to determine the size of hole you'll require.
After you've cut the hole, you will have to sand the edges of the opening. This will help prevent any future water damage or rust. In the end, you must 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. Once the sealant has dried then you can put up your cat flap!
Install the Flap
Installing a flap allows your cat to come and go whenever it wishes. Most people can install the flap on their own. However, if you want to install it on a glass or uPVC type door, you may need an expert.
Begin by reading the instructions included with your cat flap to find the drawing template. This will give an idea of the location where the holes are to be made for the flap in the door. Mark the areas in which you will need to drill with pencil.
After you've marked the door's area then use a jigsaw cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task, but you will have to be comfortable using the Jigsaw. If you're worried about doing this yourself, there are a lot of companies that can do this for you at a very low cost.
cat flap bifold doors is to attach the inside of the flap onto the hole in your door. You may have to apply sealant prior to doing this to ensure that it is weather and water resistant. You can then put the outer portion of the flap on the top of the fixing bolts, and tighten them all. It is recommended to test the flap using your cat to make sure that it works correctly and that they can move easily through it.