Fitting a Cat Flap

Getting a cat flap fitted inside your home can be a big step for any pet owner. There are many options available for you, no matter if your cat is older and requires extra security, or you have kittens that require to be vetted.
Installing a cat flap may be daunting for non-professionals but, with the right instructions, it's not hard to complete. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the keys.
Select the Right Door or Window
There are many different types of cat flaps, including 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 system. It's important to think about how easy it will be to train your cat to use the flap, before you purchase and install one.
It is best to place the cat flap, depending on the design of your home, inside a window that opens into an area of the garden that is protected. This will help your cat feel safe when entering or leaving your home. If you can this will also allow them a way back should they be chased by another cat or by humans who are intent to harm them.
It is possible to install a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as easy as putting one in a wood door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses, which can affect the way holes are cut as well as the materials you're fixing them into.
If you're installing the flap inside the glass of a door it is recommended to consult a glazier who specialises in this kind of work to avoid costly errors. If you're fitting the flap into an existing wooden door, you should introduce your cat to it first so that it can become familiar with its size and shape.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
You'll need the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap you choose to install is a good fit. This will enable you to make sure that the flap is installed at the right height on the door or window, and that it's big enough for him to enter and leave easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back, face or legs. The padding gives your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics that felines are famous for.
You can also take into account the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you require. If your cat is at or over 5kg for instance an opening of 14 x 12cm flap for the cat is recommended.
Take a measurement of your door or window
This type of cat flap, as the name suggests, is designed to be installed into the door. It allows your pet to enter and exit at its convenience. cat flap cost near me are typically made of plastic or aluminium and simply sit in the centre of the door with the possibility of a swinging door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps, which provide added security so your cat isn't able to walk through from the outside.
Cat flaps are also often used in windows. They are able to be easily installed, but they have to be set at a height where cats and dogs find it difficult to reach them. If the window isn't sufficient to accommodate a cat's flap, then you can make use of ramps, steps, or stairs that are specially designed to assist the animal in reaching it.
A cat flap could be installed into a brick wall, however this is not recommended unless you are 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 inside the wall before you begin. You should always consult a professional if you need to create a hole for pipes or cables. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask will ensure that you don't breathe in the dust that is generated when cutting into your walls.
Choose the right cat flap
There are many cat flaps that are available on the market, and they all offer various features. Some flaps are equipped with security features such as magnetic locks or microchips that prevent unauthorized entry. They also prevent your pet from letting friends or other animals into the home. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to block draughts and moisture.
There are different sizes available depending on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular while others are circular or square. The type of cat flap you choose will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the type of window or door you're fitting it to.
Lastly, think about the opening mechanism that your cat flap will have. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. It won't stop other cats and pets from entering the room, and you could let in draughts.
It's time to put in your cat flap. Determine the belly height of the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line isn't too low and is in line with the door. Use your spirit level to draw a template of the cat flap. Then, using a saw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you're happy with the result, sand the edges and then drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.
Prepare the Tools
It's essential to have the right tools when undertaking any DIY project. You'll require the cat flap as well as a pencil and tape measure as well as a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the kind of door or window.
Check with the manufacturer prior to making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal broken. In this instance you'll likely require an entirely new pane of toughened glass instead.
You'll need an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions that are provided by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to mark out the size hole you'll require.
After you've made the hole, you should then smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will help prevent future rust and water damage. 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 block the elements of wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry it is time to install your new cat-flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to come and go whenever it wants, installing a flap can help. Most people can put in the flap by themselves. However, if you want to install it on glass or uPVC type door, you might need a professional.
Begin by reading the instructions provided with your cat flap to find the template. This will give an idea of where the holes are to be drilled for the flap in the door. Then, mark the places where you need to drill with the pencil.
After you have marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw and cut out the the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task, but you will require a good understanding of the jigsaw. Many companies will complete this for you for a reasonable price If you're not sure how to take on the task yourself.
Then, you can screw the inside part to the hole of your door. It may be necessary to seal the flap before you do this, in order to keep it weatherproof and watertight. You can then put the outer section of the flap on the top of the fixing bolts, and tighten them all. You should test the flap on your cat to confirm that it functions properly and allows them to exit and enter easily.