Fitting a Cat Flap

Getting a cat flap fitted into your home could be a big step for any pet owner. There are many options available for you, no matter if your cat is getting older and requires extra security, or you have kittens that need to be examined.
It can be difficult for non-professionals to install the cat flap, but with right instructions it's easy. Planning, preparation and precision are the most important factors.
Choose the Right Door or Windows
There are a variety of cat flaps available, some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet going out or entering) and others that have high-tech features such as microchips for door entry systems. It is important to consider how it is easy to train your cat to use the flap before you buy and install one.
It is best to place the cat flap, based on the style of your home, inside an opening that leads into a garden that is sheltered. This will help your cat feel safe when entering or leaving your home. If possible, this will also give them a route back in should they get chased by a cat or by a human intent to hurt them.
cat flap installers near me can install the cat flap on the case of a uPVC door or glass window however, it's not as simple as putting one in a wooden door. This is because uPVC and composite doors come in various thicknesses, which can affect the way holes are cut and the materials you're fixing them to.
If you're installing the flap inside the glass of a door it is recommended to consult a glazier who specialises in such work to avoid any costly mistakes. If you're installing the flap in an old wooden door, begin by introducing your cat to it before you fit it so that they can become familiar with its shape and size, and explore it from all angles.
Find out the size of your cat's belly
In order to put in a cat flap that's the right size for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat's height. This will help you ensure that the flap is the correct height on your door or window and that it's wide enough to allow them to get in and exit with ease.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Check for any fat pads that are squishy - these could be visible on their lower back, face or limbs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline Acrobatics.
You can also consider your pet's weight as a way to gauge how big an opening you'll need. If your cat weighs up to 5kg, for instance, the suggested cat flap size is 14 x 12cm.
Make sure you measure your door or window
Like the name suggests, this type of cat flap is designed to be affixed to a door and provides the pet with a way to leave or enter whenever it wants. These flaps are constructed of aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that is opened by gently pushing on either side. The flaps are available in locking versions which provide extra security so that your cat is not able to enter the door from outside.
A window is another common location for a cat flap and these are easy enough to put in, but they often need to be located high enough as it's difficult for dogs and cats to reach them otherwise. If the window is not high enough to use a cat's flap, you can make use of steps, ramps or specially designed stairs to aid the animal in getting to it.
It is possible to insert a cat flap into the brick wall, however it is not recommended for people who aren't experienced in brickwork. This could weaken the structure of the wall. It's important to check that there aren't any cables and pipes in the wall prior to you start. If they are, there must be a hole made for them. This is something you should always seek professional advice on. It's also advisable to wear safety goggles and a dust protection mask to prevent inhaling any of the sawdust created by cutting into the walls of your house.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are numerous cat flaps on the market, and they come with various features. Some come with security options such as magnetic locks or microchips that stop unauthorized entry and prevent your pet from allowing guests or other animals to enter the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals that keep out the elements of moisture and draughts.
There's also a variety of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are available in rectangular shapes, whereas others are circular or square. Choosing the right type of cat flap will be dictated by the space available and the kind of door or window you want to attach it to.
Last but not least, consider the type of opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. A simple aluminum or plastic swing-out door is one option and is usually the least expensive. However, it will not prevent other cats or pets from gaining access and you could be letting draughts in as well.
It's time to install your cat flap. Begin by marking the height of the belly on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is exactly on the door and not too low. Use your spirit level to draw a template for the flap for cats. Then, just click the following article can use your saw to cut out the outline in the door. When you're satisfied with the result, sand the edges and then drill through the pencil marks to make holes for screws.
Make the Tools
It's important to have the right tools for undertaking any DIY project. The main things you'll need are the cat flap itself along with a tape measure, a good pencil as well as a spirit level, drill, file and a jigsaw (depending on the windows or doors).
If you're installing in a composite door, it is recommended to check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes as this may invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this scenario, it's likely that you'll need to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.
For wooden or uPVC doors, you'll need to cut out the shape of your cat flap with the Jigsaw. Follow the directions given by the manufacturer. If you can, use a template to help you mark out the size of the hole you have to cut.
After you've made the hole, you'll need to smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will help prevent any future water damage or rust. In the end, you must apply any necessary sealant to the back of the cat flap, and to the holes in the window or door to block the elements of wind and rain. After the sealant has dried and dry, you can install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to come and go at will, installing flaps can aid. This is a simple process that most people can do on their own, but you may require the help of a professional if you are installing the flap in a glass door or other type of uPVC door.
Take a look at the instructions included with your cat flap. There is an illustration of the template. This will give you an idea of where holes need to be drilled to install the flap on the door. Mark the areas you will have to drill using pencil.
After you've marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw to cut the design for the cat flap. This is a relatively easy task, but you'll have to be comfortable using the Jigsaw. If you are worried about doing this yourself, there are a lot of companies that can do this for you at a minimal cost.
Then, attach the outer part of the door to the hole in your door. It is possible to seal the flap before you do this to ensure it is waterproof and weatherproof. Then, you can put the outer part of the flap on the top of the fixing bolts and tighten them all. You should test the flap on your cat to ensure that it functions properly and that it allows them to exit and enter easily.