Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap into your home could be a big step for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and requires extra security, or you have new kittens that require a thorough screening there are plenty of options there for you.
It can be a bit daunting for non-professionals to install an animal flap, but with the right instructions it's easy. The most important thing is planning, preparation and precision.
Select the Right Door or Windows
There are a variety of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to keep your pet from leaving or in, while others have advanced features like microchips for door entry systems. But, it's important to consider how easy it is for your cat to train to use the flap before you buy and install one.
Depending on the style of your house It is recommended to put the cat flap near the form of a door or window that opens to a sheltered area of the garden so that your cat will feel secure leaving and entering the home. If possible this will also allow them a way back should they be pursued by a different cat or by humans who are intent on harming them.
You can install an egress flap inside a uPVC door or a glass window however, it's not as simple as putting one in the door made of wood. It's because uPVC or composite doors come in different thicknesses. This can impact the method of cutting holes, and what you fix to.
To avoid costly mistakes to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended to consult a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you're fitting the flap to the door made of wood it is recommended that you introduce your cat to it at first to ensure that it becomes familiar with its size and shape.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
In order to install the right cat flap that's suitable for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat's size. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is at the correct height on your door or window and that it's big enough for them to enter and exit with ease.
Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers over their belly. Check for any fat pads that are squishy that may be visible around their lower back, face, and limbs. The padding gives your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the acrobatics cats are known for.
You can also make use of your pet's weight to gauge how big an opening you need. If your cat weighs at or over 5kg, for example an opening of 14 x 12cm flap for the cat is advised.
Make sure you measure your door or window
The name implies, this type of cat flap is designed to be affixed to the door, and offers an opportunity for your pet to leave or enter at any time it wishes. They are typically made of plastic or aluminium and simply are placed in the middle of the door with the possibility of a swinging door that opens by pushing lightly on either side. They are available with locking options that offer added security, so that your cat is not able to traverse the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also often used in windows. They can be easily installed, however they have to be set at a high level as cats and dogs find it difficult to get them. If the window is too high to use a cat flap, ramps, steps or specially built stairs can be utilized to help the animal access it.
Cat flaps can be installed into a brick wall but it is not recommended unless familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it's essential to make sure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. You should always consult an expert when you need to cut a hole in the wall for pipes or cables. It is also recommended to wear safety goggles and a dust protection mask to avoid breathing in any sawdust generated by cutting holes in the walls of your home.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are many cat flaps available on the market, and they all offer different features. Some are equipped with security features such as magnetic locks or microchips that block entry by unauthorized persons and restrict your pet from letting pets or friends into the home. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to block the elements of moisture and draughts.
There are also different sizes that are available based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are available in rectangular shapes, whereas others are square or circular. The type of cat flap you pick will depend on the size of the opening and the kind of door or window you're installing it to.
Finally consider the mechanism to open your cat flap will have. A simple aluminum or plastic swing-out door is one choice and is typically the cheapest. However, it will not keep other animals or cats from gaining access and you could let draughts in as well.
It's time to put in your cat flap . Begin by marking the height of the belly on the door with a ruler. Make use of a spirit-level to make sure that the line isn't too low and is in line with the door. Use your spirit level to draw a sketch of the flap for cats. Then, use a jigsaw to cut out the outline of the door. Once you are happy with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil markings to create holes for screws.
Prepare the Tools
It is essential to have the right tools for undertaking any DIY project. You'll need a cat flap, a pencil and tape measure along with a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the kind of door or window.
If you're installing in a composite door, you should consult with the manufacturer before making any alterations because this could invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this instance, you'll probably have to install an entirely new pane of toughened glass instead.
For wooden or uPVC doors you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap with the Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines provided by the manufacturer. If possible, use a template to help you determine the size of the hole you need to cut.
After you've made the hole, you will have to sand off the edges of the opening. This will prevent any rust or water damage from happening in the future. Also, you should apply any necessary sealant to the back of the cat flap, and to the holes in the door or window to keep out rain and wind. When the sealant has dried and dry, you can install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
Fitting a flap will allow your cat to go and come whenever it wishes. This is a straightforward process that most people can accomplish on their own, but you'll likely require the help of an expert for installing the flap in the form of a glass door or another kind of uPVC door.
Look at the instructions that came with your cat flap. You will find an illustration of the template. This will give an idea of the location where the holes will be made for the flap to be placed in the door. Then, mark the areas where you need to drill with pencil.
After you have marked the door on your door, you can use the jigsaw and cut out the the cat flap. This is a relatively easy task, but you'll have to be comfortable using a saw. If you are worried about doing it yourself, there are plenty of companies that can complete this for you at a very low cost.
Then, you can screw the inside part to the hole in your door. You may have to seal it prior to doing this to ensure it remains weather-proof and water resistant. Then, you can put the outer portion of the cat flap on top of the fixing bolts and then tighten them all. It is recommended that you test the flap using your cat to make sure that it works correctly and that they can move easily through it.