Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is a great step for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and requires extra security, or you have a new kitten who require a vet check There are a lot of options there to choose from.
It can be a bit daunting for those who aren't professionals to put in an animal flap, but with the proper instructions, it's simple. Planning, preparation and precision are the keys.
Select the Right Door or Window
There are a variety of cat flaps to choose from including some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet going out or entering) and others with advanced features such as microchips for door entry systems. It's important to think about how it is easy to teach your cat to use the flap before you buy and install one.
It is recommended to put the cat flap, depending on the style of your home, inside an opening that leads into a garden that is sheltered. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering and leaving your home. If you can this will also allow them a way back case they are pursued by a different cat or by a human intent on harming them.
It is possible to install the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as simple as installing one into a wood door. It's because uPVC or composite doors are available in different thicknesses. This can impact the method of cutting holes, and what you fix to.
To avoid costly errors It is recommended to consult a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a door with a glass front. If you're installing the flap to a wooden door, start by introducing your cat to it before you fit it so that they can be familiar with its size and shape and explore it from every angle.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
To install a cat flap that's suitable for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's size. This will enable you to ensure that the cat flap is placed at the right height on the door or window, and that it is large enough for him to get in and out easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers over their belly. Feel for any fat pads that are squishy which could be visible on their lower back, face or limbs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline Acrobatics.
You can also make use of your pet's weight to gauge how big an opening you'll need. If your cat is up to 5Kg in weight, for example, a 14 x 12cm flap for the cat is recommended.
Take a measurement of your windows or doors
As the name suggests this kind of cat flap is made to be attached to the door, and offers a way for your pet to go in or out as it pleases. These flaps are made of plastic or aluminum and are placed in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that is opened by lightly pushing on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps that provide added security so your cat can't simply traverse through the door from outside.
A window is a common location for a cat's 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 access them. If cat flap fitting near me is not high enough to use the flap for cats, you can opt for ramps, steps, or specially designed stairs to aid the animal in getting to it.
A cat flap could also be fitted to a brick wall, but it is not recommended unless you're familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's important to ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. If there are, an opening must be created for them and this is something you should always seek professional advice on. It is also recommended to wear safety goggles and a dust protection mask to prevent inhaling any sawdust that is created by cutting through the walls of your house.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are numerous cat flaps that are available on the market, and they all offer different features. Certain cat flaps come with security features like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also prevent your pet from letting friends or animals to enter the home. Some have weatherproof seals and insulation to keep out the elements and keep out drafts.
There is also a choice 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. The kind of cat flap you choose will depend on the size of the opening and the kind of door or window you're fixing it to.
The last thing to do is take into consideration the kind of opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. However, it will not keep other animals or cats from gaining access and you could be letting draughts in too.
It's time to put in your cat flap. Determine the belly height of the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is sitting exactly on the door and not too low. Use your spirit level to draw a sketch of the flap for cats. Then, you can use your saw to cut out the door's outline. Once you are happy with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil markings to create holes for screws.
Prepare the Tools
As with all DIY jobs, it's always best to have the right tools to complete the task. The most essential things you'll need are the cat flap as well as a tape measure, an excellent pencil and a spirit level drill, file, and the Jigsaw (depending on the windows or doors).
If you're installing in a composite door, it is recommended to consult with the manufacturer prior to making any changes, as this may cause the warranty to be invalidated or break the weathertight seal. In this scenario it's likely that you'll have to replace the glass with a brand new piece of toughened glass.
You'll require the jigsaw to cut your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the instructions given by the manufacturer. Use a template to mark the size hole you'll require.
After you have cut the hole, you'll have to sand the edges of the opening. This will help prevent any future water damage or rust. Finally, you should apply any sealant that is needed to the back of the cat flap and to the holes in the window or door to block the elements of wind and rain. When the sealant has dried, you're ready to install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
The installation of a flap will allow your cat to come and go whenever it wishes. This is a simple process that most people can complete themselves, although you may require the assistance of an expert if you're installing the flap in the form of a glass door or another kind of uPVC door.
Take a look at the instructions included with the cat flap. You will find a drawing of the template. This will provide you with an idea of where the holes for the flap have to be made in the door. Then, mark the areas that you'll need to drill with the pencil.
After you have mapped out the door's area then use a jigsaw cut out the design of the cat flap. It is a relatively simple job, but you'll require a good understanding of the jigsaw. Many companies will do this work for you at a reasonable price If you're not sure how to take on the task yourself.
Then, screw the inner part of the door to the hole in your door. You may have to apply sealant prior to doing this to ensure that it stays watertight and weather resistant. The outer section of your cat flap could be placed on the bolts' tops and then securing them. You should test the cat flap on your cat to ensure that it functions properly and allows them to enter and exit easily.