Fitting a Cat Flap

Getting a cat flap fitted in to your home can be a major step for any pet owner. If your cat is old and requires extra security, or you have kittens who require a vet check there are plenty of options out there for you.
It can be intimidating for non-professionals to install an animal flap, but with the proper guidelines, it's easy. Planning, preparation and precision are the key to success.
Select the Right Door or Windows
There are a wide variety of cat flaps to choose from that come with locks (which can be used to stop your pet going out or entering) and others with advanced features such as microchip door entry systems. It is important to think about the ease of your cat to train to use the flap prior to making a purchase and install one.
Depending on the design of your house It is recommended to situate the cat flap in a window or door that opens onto an area that is protected from the garden so your cat is secure when leaving and entering the home. If you can this will also allow them a way back case they are chased by a cat or by humans intent to hurt them.
It is possible to install the cat flap on the form of a uPVC door or glass window however it's not as straightforward as putting one in a wooden door. It's because uPVC or composite doors are available in different thicknesses. This can affect the way holes are cut, and the type of door you can fix to.
To avoid costly errors It is recommended that you consult an expert glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you're installing the flap onto the door made of wood it is recommended that you introduce your cat first to make sure it is familiar with its size and shape.
Find out the size of your cat's belly
You'll need the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap you put in is a perfect fit. This will ensure that the flap is at the right height on your window or door and that it's large enough for them to enter and exit with ease.
To do this, place your pet on their back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back or face, or around the limbs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline acrobatics.
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 instance, a 14 x 12cm flap for your cat is recommended.
Measure your door or window
This kind 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 plastic or aluminium and simply are placed in the middle of the door. They have a two-way swinging door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps that provide added security so your cat isn't able to enter the door from the outside.
Cat flaps are also frequently used in windows. They are able to be easily installed, but they need to be installed at a height where cats and dogs find it difficult to reach them. If the window is not high enough to use a cat's flap, then you can use ramps, steps or specially designed stairs to help the animal reach it.
It is possible to put a cat flap into a brickwall, but it is not recommended for those who aren't experienced in the masonry industry. This could weaken the wall's structure. It is essential to ensure that there aren't any cables and pipes in the wall prior to you start. If there are, then there must be a hole created for them and this is something that you should always seek professional advice on. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask will allow you to avoid breathing in the dust that is generated when cutting into your walls.
Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.
There are numerous cat flaps available and all of them offer various features. Certain cat flaps come with security features such as magnetic locks or microchips which prevent unauthorised entry. They also stop your pet from allowing friends or another animal into the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals that keep out water and drafts.
There is also a choice of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are circular or square. The type of cat flap you pick will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the type of window or door you're fitting it to.
Finally, think about the mechanism for opening your cat flap will come with. cat flap cost or plastic swing-out door is a good alternative and is usually the cheapest. However, it will not prevent other cats or pets from gaining access and you could let draughts in too.
It's time to put in your cat flap. Mark the belly height of the door using a ruler. Use a spirit-level to make sure the line is not too low and is straight on the door. Use your spirit level to draw a template for the flap for cats. Then, use a Jigsaw to cut the outline of the door. Once you are happy with the result finish sanding the edges and drill through the pencil marks to create holes for screws.
Make the Tools
Like all DIY tasks, it's advisable to make sure you have the right tools for the job. The most essential things you'll need are the cat flap itself as well as a tape measure, a decent pencil, a spirit level, a file, drill and the Jigsaw (depending on your windows or doors).
Check with the manufacturer prior to making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal to become damaged. In this case it's likely that you will need to replace the glass with a brand 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 directions given by the manufacturer. Use a template to determine the size of hole you require.
After you've made the hole, you should then sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will help prevent future rust and water damage. Finally, you should apply any necessary sealant to the rear of the cat flap as well as to the holes in the door or window to block rain and wind. After the sealant has dried, you're ready to install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to go and come whenever it wants, installing a flap can help. Most people can put in the flap on their own. However when you plan to put it in a glass or uPVC type door, you may require an expert.
Begin by studying the instructions included with your cat flap to find the drawing template. This will provide you with an idea of where the holes for the flap will need to be drilled into the door. Mark the areas you will need to drill in with pencil.
After you have marked the door on your door, use the jigsaw to cut the shape for the cat flap. This is a relatively easy task, but you will require a good understanding of a Jigsaw. Many companies will do this for you at a reasonable cost If you're not sure how to tackle it yourself.
Then, screw the inner part to the hole of your door. You may have to apply sealant prior to doing this to ensure that it remains weather-proof and water resistant. The outer section of your cat flap can be placed on top of the bolts, and then tacked together. You should test the cat flap on your cat to confirm that it is working correctly and allows them to exit and enter easily.