Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is a great option for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and requires extra security, or you have new kittens who require a vet check there are a lot of options there to choose from.
Installing a cat flap could be daunting for non-professionals however, with the proper instructions, it's not difficult to complete. The most important thing is planning, preparation and precision.
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There's a wide selection of cat flaps available including some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from going out or entering) and others that have high-tech features like microchip door entry systems. It is important to consider how easy it will be to train your cat to use the flap, before you buy and install one.
It's best to place the cat flap, based on the design of your home, inside the form of a window that opens to an area of the garden that is protected. This will help your cat feel secure when entering and leaving your home. If possible it will also provide them a route back in should they get chased by a cat or by humans intent to hurt them.
It is possible to install a cat flap in the case of a uPVC door or a glass window, but it's not as simple as fitting one into a wooden door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors come in various thicknesses, which can affect how holes are cut and the materials you're fixing them into.
If you're installing the flap on a glass door, it's recommended that you find a glazier who is experienced in this kind of work to avoid any costly errors. If you're installing the flap on a wooden door, start by the cat with it before you fit it to allow them to get used to its shape and size, and explore it from all angles.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
To install a cat flap that's a good fit for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's size. This will help you make sure that the flap is installed at the right height on the window or door, and that it is large enough for him to enter and leave easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers over their belly. Look for a fat pad that is squishy around the lower back and face, as well as the legs. The extra padding offers your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics felines are famous for.
You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you require. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg in weight for instance, a 14 x 12cm flap for your cat is advised.
Measure Your Door or Window
This kind of cat flap, as its name suggests, is designed to be installed into a door. It lets your pet enter and exit at its convenience. These flaps are constructed of plastic or aluminum and are located in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that is opened by gently pressing on either side. These flaps can be locked that provide additional security so that your cat is not able to traverse the door from outside.
A window is a common location for a cat's flap, and they are simple enough to install, though they often need to be located high enough as it's difficult for cats and dogs to access them. If the window is too high for a cat flap then ramps, steps, or specially built stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it.
It is possible to put an egress into the brick wall, however it is not recommended for those who aren't familiar with the masonry industry. This could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it's essential to make sure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. You should always consult an expert when you need to cut a hole in the wall for cables and pipes. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask will ensure that you don't breathe in the sawdust created when you cut into your walls.
Choose the right cat flap
There are a variety of cat flaps available and all of them offer different features. Some are equipped with security features such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry and also stop your pet allowing pets or friends into the home. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to keep out the elements and keep out drafts.
There are also different sizes available depending on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular, while others are square or circular. Selecting the best cat flap will be dictated by the space available and the type of door or window you intend to install it on.
Last but not least, think about the opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. A simple aluminium or plastic swing-out door is one alternative and is usually the least expensive. However, it won't stop other pets or cats from entering and you may be letting draughts in too.
After you've chosen the appropriate cat flap and measured your door or window, it's time to fit it. Start by marking the height of the belly on the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is straight on the door and not too low. Create a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, use a saw to cut out the outline of the door. Once you're happy with the result, sand the edges and then drill through the pencil marks to make holes for the screws.
Prepare the Tools
Like any DIY tasks, it's recommended to have the right tools for the job. The most essential 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 the jigsaw (depending on the window or door type).
If you're installing a composite door, you should 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.
You'll need the jigsaw to cut your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions that are provided by the manufacturer. If you can, use an outline to help mark out the size of the hole you'll will need to cut.
After you've cut the hole, you will need to sand the edges of the opening. This will help prevent future rust and water damage. It is also recommended to cover the holes in your window or door and the back of the cat flap to block wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry then you're now ready to put in your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to come and go whenever it wants, installing flaps can be helpful. It's a simple procedure that most people can do on their own, but you may need to hire an expert if you're installing the flap on an unglazed door or any other type of uPVC door.
Check out the directions that came with your cat flap. You will find a template drawing. This will give an idea of the location where holes need to be made for the flap to be placed in the door. Mark the areas you'll have to 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. It's a relatively easy job however, you'll need to be comfortable with the Jigsaw. If you are worried about doing it yourself, there are a lot of companies that can complete this for you at a minimal cost.
Next, you will need to screw the inner part of the flap onto the hole in your door. You may have to apply sealant before making this move to ensure it is weather and water resistant. You can then place the outer part of the cat flap on top of the fixing bolts and then tighten them all together. You should test the flap on your cat to confirm that it's working properly and that it allows the cat to go in and out easily.