Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is an excellent option for any pet owner. There are a variety of options for you, no matter if your cat is getting older and requires extra security, or you have kittens who need to be examined.
It can be intimidating for those who aren't professionals to put in a cat flap, but with right instructions it's easy. The most important thing is planning, preparation and accuracy.
Select the Right Door or Windows
There are a wide variety of cat flaps that are available that come with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from leaving or entering) and others that have high-tech features such as microchip door entry systems. It is important to consider the ease of your cat to teach to use the flap prior to making a buy and install one.
Based on the style of your house, it's generally best to situate the cat flap inside a window or door that opens to an area of protection in the garden so that your cat will feel secure entering and leaving the home. If you can it will also provide them a route back in should they be chased by a cat or by humans who are intent on harming them.
It's possible to put the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it's not the same as fitting one on a wooden door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses, which can affect the way holes are cut and the material you're fixing it to.
To avoid costly errors, it is recommended that you consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you're installing the flap in the door made of wood, start by introduction of your cat to it before you fit it so that they can get used to its shape and size, and explore it from every angle.
Find out the size of your cat's belly
It is important to know the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you choose to install is a perfect fit. This will enable you to make sure that the flap is installed at the right height on the window or door, and also that it's large enough for him to get in and leave easily.
To do this, lay your pet on their back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Feel for any squishy fat pads - these could be visible on their lower back, face, and legs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline Acrobatics.
You can also use your pet's weight to gauge how big an opening you need. If your cat weighs 5kg, for instance the suggested cat flap size is 14x12cm.
Make sure you measure your door or window
This kind of cat flap, as the name suggests, is made to be fitted into a door. It allows your pet to be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. The flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and are located in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that is opened by gently pushing on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps, which provide extra security, so your cat isn't able to enter the door from the outside.
Cat flaps are also frequently used on windows. They can be easily installed, but they need to be placed at a height where cats and dogs find it difficult to reach them. If the window is too high for a cat flap, then steps, ramps or purpose built stairs can be utilized to aid the animal in accessing it.
A cat flap could be installed to a brick wall, but this is not recommended unless skilled in masonry work as it could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it's important to make sure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. Always consult a professional if you need to create a hole for pipes or cables. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask will help you avoid inhaling the dust that is generated when cutting through your walls.
Choose the right cat flap
There are a variety of cat flaps on the market 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 prevent your pet from allowing friends or other animals into the home. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to keep out draughts and moisture.
There are also different sizes to choose from based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular, while others are square or circular. The kind of cat flap you pick will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the kind of door or window you're installing it to.
Last but not least, consider the type of opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. A simple aluminium or plastic swing-out door is a good choice and is typically the least expensive. However, it will not stop other pets or cats from entering and you may let draughts through as well.
Once you have selected the appropriate cat flap and measured the window or door then it's time to install it. Start by marking the height of the belly on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is sitting straight on the door and not too low. Use your spirit level to draw a sketch of the flap for cats. Then, using a jigsaw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you are happy with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil marks to create holes for screws.
Make the Tools
It's essential to have the right tools for undertaking any DIY project. The most essential things you'll need are the cat flap, a tape measure and an excellent pencil, a spirit level, drill, file, and an jigsaw (depending on your door or window type).
Check with the manufacturer prior to making any modifications to a composite door. upvc door panels with cat flap could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal to become damaged. In this scenario you'll need to fit 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 directions provided by the manufacture. Use a template to mark the size hole you'll need.
After you've cut the hole, you will have to sand off the edges of the opening. This will prevent future rust and water damage. You should also cover the holes in your window or door and the side of the flap to block rain and wind. Once the sealant has dried then you can put up your new cat-flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to move around as it pleases, fitting flaps can aid. The majority of people can install the flap by themselves. However when you plan to install it on a glass or uPVC type door, you may require an expert.
Begin by studying the instructions included with your cat flap to locate the template. This will give you an idea of where the holes for the flap have to be drilled in the door. Mark the areas you will need to drill into using the pencil.
After you've marked the area on your door, you can use the jigsaw to cut the shape for the cat flap. It's a relatively easy task however you'll need be comfortable with 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.
Next, you will need to attach the interior part of the flap onto the hole in your door. You may need to apply sealant before doing this to ensure that it remains weather-proof and water resistant. The outside of your cat flap may be placed on the bolts on top, and then securing them. You should test the cat flap on your cat to confirm that it's working properly and allows the cat to go in and out easily.