Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in your home is a great option for any pet owner. There are numerous options to you, regardless of whether your cat is old and requires extra security, or you have kittens that need to be examined.
Installing a cat flap may be a daunting task for novices, but, with the right instructions, it's not hard to complete. Preparation, planning and precision are the key to success.
Choose the Right Door or Windows
There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, some with locks that can be used to prevent your pet from getting out or in and others with advanced features like microchips for door entry systems. But, it's important to consider how easy your cat is to train to use the flap prior to making a purchase and fit one.
Based on the style of your home It is recommended to place the cat flap in the form of a door or window that opens onto an area of protection in the garden so that your cat is secure when entering and leaving the home. If you can, this will also give them a way back should they get pursued by a different cat or by humans intent on harming them.
You can install a cat flap in the case of a uPVC door or glass window however, it's not as simple as fitting one into wooden doors. This is because uPVC and composite doors come in various thicknesses, which can affect how holes are cut and what you're fixing into.
If you're installing the flap in the glass of a door it is recommended that you find a glazier who is experienced in such work to avoid costly mistakes. If you're fitting the flap on a wooden door, start by the cat with it before you fit it to allow them to become familiar with its shape and size and explore it from every angle.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
You'll need the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you put in is the perfect fit. This will help you ensure that the flap is at the right height on your door or window, and that it's big enough to allow them to enter and exit with ease.
To do this, lay your pet on their back and run your fingers gently across their belly. Look for any squishy fat pads which might be visible around their lower back, face and limbs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline circus skills.
Alternatively, you can also use your pet's weight to determine the size of an opening you need. If your cat weighs 5Kg, for example the suggested flap size is 14 x 12cm.
Take a measurement of your door or window
The name implies, this type of cat flap is designed to be affixed to a door and provides a way for your pet to go in or out as it pleases. The flaps are made of plastic or aluminum and are located in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that opens by lightly pushing on either side. The flaps are available in locking versions which provide extra security so your cat cannot simply enter the door from outside.
A window is a common location for a cat flap and these are easy enough to fit, although they often need to be set up high as it is difficult for cats and dogs to access them. If cat flap glass door installation near me is too high to be used as a cat flap then ramps, steps, or specially constructed stairs can be used to aid the animal in accessing it.
It is possible to install a cat flap into brick walls, however it is not recommended for those who aren't familiar with brickwork. This could weaken the structure of the wall. It is essential to ensure that there are no cables and pipes in the wall prior to you start. Always consult a professional if you need to make a hole for pipes or cables. It's also advisable to wear safety goggles and a dust protection mask to prevent inhaling any sawdust that is created by cutting into your home's walls.
Choose the right cat flap
There are a variety of cat flaps available and each one comes with different features. Some come with security options such as magnetic locks or microchips that prevent unauthorized entry and also stop your pet allowing friends or other animals into the home. Some have weatherproof seals and insulation to block out draughts and moisture.
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 kind of cat flap you pick will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as 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 the cat flap will employ. A simple aluminium or plastic swing-out door is a good choice and is typically the cheapest. But, it will not keep other animals or cats from entering your home and you could be letting draughts in too.
fitting cat flap in upvc door panel to install your cat flap. Begin by marking the belly's height on the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is not too low and that it is straight across the door. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, use a Jigsaw to cut the door's outline. When you are satisfied with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.
Make the Tools
It's important to have the right tools when performing any DIY project. You'll need the cat flap as well as tape measure and pencil as well as a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the kind of window or door.
Consult the manufacturer before making any changes to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal damaged. In this instance you'll need to fit a new pane of toughened glass instead.
You'll require a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the instructions given by the manufacturer. If possible, you can use a template to help you identify the dimensions of the hole you have to cut.
After you have cut the hole, you will have to sand off the edges of the opening. This will prevent future rust and water damage. It is also recommended to cover the holes in your door or window and the back of the flap to keep out wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry, you can install your cat flap!
Install the Flap
Installing a flap allows your cat to come and go whenever it wants. This is a straightforward process that most people can do on their own, but you will likely require the assistance of an expert for installing the flap in the form of a glass door or another kind 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 made in the door. Mark the areas you will need to drill in using the pencil.
After you have marked the door on your door, you can use the jigsaw and cut out the the cat flap. It's a relatively easy task however you'll need be comfortable with a Jigsaw. Many companies will complete this task for you at a reasonable cost in case you're hesitant to take on the task yourself.
The next step is to screw the inner part of the cat flap to the door's hole. It is possible to seal it prior to doing this to ensure it stays watertight and weather resistant. Then, you can put the outer portion of the cat flap on the top of the fixing bolts and tighten the bolts all together. It is recommended to test the flap using your cat to ensure that it works correctly and that they are able to move easily through it.