Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in your home is an excellent option for any pet owner. If your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have new kittens that require a thorough screening there are a lot of options there for you.
It can be a bit daunting for non-professionals to install a cat flap, but with the proper guidelines, it's easy. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the most important factors.
Choose the Right Door or Windows
There's a wide selection of cat flaps that are available that come with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from going out or coming in) and others with high-tech features such as microchip door entry systems. It's important to think about how it is easy to teach your cat to use the flap, before you purchase and install one.
Depending on the design of your home, it's generally best to place the cat flap in an opening or window that opens out into an area of protection in the garden so that your cat can feel safe when leaving and entering the home. This will also allow them to return inside if they are chased by other animals or human beings who wish to hurt them.
It is possible to install a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it's not as easy as putting one into a wood door. It's because uPVC or composite doors come in various thicknesses. This can affect the method of cutting holes, and what you fix to.
If you're installing the flap in a glass door, it's recommended that you consult a glazier who specialises in this kind of work to avoid any costly mistakes. If you're fitting the flap into a wooden door it is recommended that you introduce your cat to it at first to make sure it is familiar with its size and shape.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
It is important to know the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you install is a good fit. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is the correct height on your window or door and that it's big enough to allow them to enter and exit with ease.
Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers over their belly. Look for any fat pads that are squishy that might be visible around their lower back, face and legs. The extra padding offers your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics that felines are known for.
You can also make use of your pet's weight to determine the size of an opening you'll need. If your cat weighs 5kg, for instance the suggested flap opening size is 14 x 12cm.
Measure Your Door or Window
The name implies, this type of cat flap is made to be attached to the door, and offers the pet with a way to leave or enter at any time it wishes. They are typically made of plastic or aluminium and simply rest in the middle of the door. They come with the possibility of a swinging door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. They can be locked that offer added security, which means that your cat can't traverse the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also frequently used in windows. They can be easily installed, however they have to be installed at an elevated level since cats and dogs have a difficult time to reach them. If the window isn't high enough to use a cat's flap, then you can use ramps, steps, or stairs that are specially designed to assist the animal in reaching it.
It is possible to put a cat flap into a brickwall, but it is not recommended for those who aren't familiar with the masonry industry. This could cause the wall to weaken. Before you begin, it's essential to make sure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. If there are, then a hole needs to be made for them. This is something that you should always seek professional advice on. Wearing protective glasses or a dust mask will help you avoid inhaling the dust that is generated when you cut into your walls.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are many different cat flaps available and all of them offer different features. Some flaps are equipped with security features, such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also prevent your pet from allowing friends or another animal into the house. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals that keep out the elements of moisture and draughts.
There are different sizes to choose from based on the breed and size of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular while others are square or circular. The best type of cat flap will be determined by the space available and the type of window or door you want to attach it to.
Also think about the mechanism for opening your cat flap will have. The most affordable option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. But, it will not prevent other cats or pets from entering and you may let draughts through as well.
Once you've selected the appropriate cat flap and measured your window or door, it's time to fit it. Begin by marking the belly's height on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is exactly on the door and not too low. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, using a saw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you are satisfied with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.
Make sure you have the tools ready
It's essential to have the right tools for undertaking any DIY project. The most important things you'll require are the cat flap itself as well as a tape measure, an excellent pencil and a spirit level drill, file, and an Jigsaw (depending on the windows or doors).
Contact the manufacturer prior to making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal damaged. In this case you'll likely have to install an entirely new pane of toughened glass instead.
You'll need to use an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. If you can, use an example to mark out the size of the hole you'll need to cut.
After you've cut the required hole, you'll need to smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will prevent the possibility of water damage and rust. Finally, you should apply any sealant you require to the rear of the cat flap, and to the holes in the door or window to keep out the elements of wind and rain. After the sealant has dried then you can put up your cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to come and go whenever it wants, installing flaps can be helpful. The majority of people can install the flap themselves. However when composite door cat flap plan to install it in a glass or uPVC type door, you may need a professional.
Take a look at the instructions included with the cat flap. There is a drawing of the template. This will give you an idea of where holes need to be drilled to install the flap on the door. Then, mark the places where you must drill using the pencil.
After you've marked the door's opening, use a jigsaw to cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a relatively simple job however, you'll need to be comfortable using a Jigsaw. Many companies will complete this task for you at a reasonable cost If you're not sure how to tackle it yourself.
Then, you can screw the inside part to the hole of your door. You may have to apply sealant before doing this to ensure that it stays watertight and weather resistant. You can then place the outer section of the flap on the top of the fixing bolts, and tighten them all together. It is recommended that you test the cat flap with your cat to ensure that it is working properly and that they are able to enter and leave easily through it.