Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in to your home can be a huge step for any pet owner. There are many options available for you, whether your cat is older and requires extra security or if you have kittens that need to be checked.
It can be difficult for people who aren't experts in installing the cat flap, but with the proper guidelines, it's easy. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the most important factors.
Select the Right Door or Windows
There's a wide selection of cat flaps available including some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from leaving or coming in) and others with high-tech features like microchip door entry systems. It is important to consider how easy your cat is to teach to use the flap prior to making a purchase and fit one.
It is best to place the cat flap, based on the style of your home, in the form of a window that opens to a garden that is sheltered. This will help your cat feel safe when entering or leaving your home. If possible it will also provide them a route back in case they are chased by a cat or by humans who are intent on harming them.
You can put an egress flap inside a uPVC door or glass window however it's not as easy as fitting one into the door made of wood. This is because uPVC and composite doors come in different thicknesses, which affect how holes are cut and the material you're fixing it to.
If you're installing the flap in glass doors it is recommended that you find a glazier who is experienced in this type of work to avoid costly errors. If you are fitting the flap to the door made of wood, you should introduce your cat to it first to make sure it is familiar with its size and shape.
Find out the size of your cat's belly
It is important to know the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap you put in is a good fit. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is at the right height for your door or window, and that it's large enough for them to enter and out easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers across their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back or face, or around the limbs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline circus skills.
You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you require. If your cat weighs at or above 5kg in weight, for example that's a 14x12cm flap for the cat is recommended.
Make sure you measure your door or window
This type of cat flap, as the name suggests, is designed to be affixed to a door. It lets your pet enter and exit at its convenience. They are usually made from aluminum or plastic and rest in the middle of the door. They come with the possibility of a swinging door that is opened by pushing lightly on either side. These flaps can be locked which provide extra security which means that your cat can't walk through the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also frequently used in windows. They can be easily installed, but they need 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 use ramps, steps or specially designed stairs to assist the animal in reaching it.
It is possible to install the cat flap onto the brick wall, however it is not recommended for those who are not experienced in the masonry industry. This could weaken the structure of the wall. It is essential to ensure that there are no cables and pipes inside 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 expert advice on. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask can ensure that you don't breathe in the dust that is generated when you cut into your walls.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are many cat flaps available on the market, and have various features. Some flaps are equipped with security features like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry. They also prevent your pet from allowing friends or animals to enter the house. window with cat flap have insulation as well as weatherproof seals that keep out draughts and moisture.
There are different sizes available depending on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are available in rectangular shapes, while others are square or circular. The type of cat flap you select will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the type of window or door you're installing it to.
Last but not least, consider the type of opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. The cheapest option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It will not stop other pets and cats from entering however, and you could be letting in draughts.
It's time to install your cat flap. Begin by marking the belly height on the door using your ruler. Use a spirit-level to ensure that the line isn't too low and is straight on the door. Create a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, using your Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. Once you're happy with the results sand down the edges and drill through the pencil lines to create holes for the screws.
Prepare window cat flap to have the right tools when undertaking any DIY project. The most important things you'll require are the cat flap itself along with a tape measure, an excellent pencil, a spirit level, drill, file and the Jigsaw (depending on your door or window type).
If you're installing in a composite door, it is recommended to check with the manufacturer prior to making any alterations because this could invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this scenario it's likely that you'll need to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass.
For wooden or uPVC doors, you'll need to cut out the shape of your cat flap using a Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines given by the manufacturer. If possible, use an outline to help identify the dimensions of the hole you will need to cut.
After you've made the hole, you must sand down the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop future rust and water damage. Also, 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. Once window with cat flap has dried then you can put up your new cat-flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to move around as it pleases, fitting flaps can aid. This is a simple process that most people can accomplish by themselves, though you'll likely need to hire an expert for installing the flap in an unglazed door or any other kind of uPVC door.
Begin by studying the instructions provided with your cat flap to locate the template drawing. This will give you an idea of where holes for the flap need to be made in the door. Then, mark the places that you'll must drill using the pencil.
Once you have marked out the door's area and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a relatively easy task, but you'll need to be comfortable using the jigsaw. Numerous companies will perform this for you for a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to take on the task yourself.
Next, you will need to attach the interior part of the flap onto the door's hole. You may have to seal it prior to doing this to ensure that it stays watertight and weather resistant. The outer section of your cat flap may be placed on the bolts' tops and then securing them. You must test the cat flap on your cat to ensure that it functions properly and that it allows them to enter and exit easily.