Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap into your home could be a huge step for any pet owner. There are numerous options for you, whether your cat is old and requires extra security or if you have kittens that require to be checked.
It can be intimidating 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 Windows
There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to stop your pet from getting out or in and others with modern features such as microchips or a door entry system. But, it's important to think about how easy it is for your cat to train to use the flap before you purchase and fit one.
Depending on the style of your home, it's usually best to situate the cat flap near an opening or window that opens out into an area that is protected from the garden so your cat can feel safe when entering and leaving the home. If possible this will also allow them a way back should they be pursued by a different cat or by a human intent to harm them.
You can install a cat flap in the case of a uPVC door or glass window, but it's not as easy as fitting one into wooden doors. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in various thicknesses. This can impact the way holes are cut, and the material you put to.
To avoid costly errors It is recommended to consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a door with a glass front. If you're installing the flap onto an existing wooden door it is recommended that you introduce your cat to it first to ensure that it becomes familiar with its dimensions and shape.
Find out the size of 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 enable you to ensure that your cat flap is installed at the correct height on the door or window, and that it's big enough for him to get in and leave easily.
To do double glazing cat flap , lay your pet on their back and gently rub your fingers along their belly. Check for any fat pads that are squishy which might be visible around their lower back, face, and legs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline acrobatics.
Alternately, you could consider your pet's weight as a way to gauge how big an opening you require. If your cat weighs at or over 5kg for instance that's a 14x12cm cat flap opening is recommended.
Take a measurement of your door or window
Like the name suggests this kind of cat flap is designed to be fixed into the door, and offers a way for your pet to leave or enter at any time it wishes. These flaps are made of plastic or aluminum and are placed in the middle of the door. They have a two-way swinging opening that is opened by gently pushing on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps that offer additional security to ensure that your cat isn't able to enter the door from the outside.
A window is another common location for a cat's flap, and they are simple enough to fit, although they often need to be located high enough as it's difficult for cats and dogs to access them. If the window isn't sufficient in height to be used as a cat's flap, you can use steps, ramps or specially designed stairs to help the animal reach it.
It is possible to insert an egress into the brick wall, however it is not recommended for people who aren't familiar with brickwork. This could cause the wall to weaken. It's important to check that there aren't any cables or pipes within the wall before you begin. If there are, then a hole needs to be created for them and this is something that you should always seek professional advice on. It is also recommended to wear safety goggles and a dust protection mask to avoid breathing in any sawdust generated by cutting into the walls of your home.
Choose the right cat flap
There are a variety of cat flaps that are available on the market, and they all offer various features. Some come with security options like magnetic locks or microchip recognition to prevent unauthorized entry and also prevent your pet from allowing pets or friends into the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to block the elements of moisture and draughts.
There's also a variety of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are square or circular. The type of cat flap you choose will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the kind of door or window you're fitting it to.
Last but not least, consider the type of opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. It won't stop other pets and cats from entering the room, and you could let in draughts.
It's time to put in 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 not too low and that it is straight across the door. Create a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Next, use your Jigsaw to cut the outline in the door. When you are satisfied with the result finish sanding the edges and drill through the pencil marks to create holes for screws.
Make sure you have the tools ready
It's important to have the right tools for doing any DIY project. The most essential things you'll need are the cat flap itself as well as a tape measure, a good pencil and a spirit level a file, drill and an Jigsaw (depending on the window or door type).
If you're installing in a composite door, it is recommended to consult with the manufacturer before making any changes as this may cause the warranty to be invalidated or break the weathertight seal. In this case, you'll probably require an additional pane of toughened glass instead.
For wooden or uPVC doors will require cutting out the shape of your cat flap using a Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. Use a template to determine the size of hole you'll require.
After you've cut the hole, you will need to sand the edges of the opening. This will prevent any rust or water damage from occurring in the future. It is also recommended to cover the holes in your window or door and the back of the flap to block wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry and dry, you can install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
The installation of a flap will allow your cat to come and go whenever it wants. It's a simple procedure that most people can accomplish by themselves, though you'll likely require the assistance of an expert for installing the flap in an unglazed door or any other type of uPVC door.
Begin by studying the instructions provided with your cat flap to locate the drawing template. This will give an idea of where holes need to be drilled for the flap on the door. Then, mark the places in which you will need to drill with a pencil.
After you have marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw to cut the design for the cat flap. It's a relatively easy task however you'll need be comfortable using the saw. If you are concerned about doing it yourself, there are many companies that can do this for you at a minimal cost.
Then, screw the inner part to the hole of your door. It might be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this in order to ensure it is weatherproof and watertight. You can then place the outer part of the cat flap on the top of the fixing bolts and then tighten the bolts all together. It is recommended to test the flap with your cat to ensure that it functions properly and that they are able to enter and leave easily through it.