Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in your home is an excellent step for any pet owner. If your cat is old and needs extra security or you have kittens that require a thorough screening there are plenty of options there to choose from.
Installing a cat flap could be intimidating for people who aren't professionals, but, with the right instructions, it's not difficult to complete. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the most important factors.
Choose the Right Door, or Window
There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, some with locks that can be used to prevent your pet from getting out or inside, and others that have modern features such as microchips or a door entry systems. However, it's important to consider how easy it is for your cat to teach to use the flap prior to making a buy and install one.
Depending on the style of your home, it's usually best to place the cat flap near a window or door that opens onto a sheltered area of the garden so your cat will feel secure entering and leaving the home. This will also allow them to go back inside if they're pursued by a pet or human beings who wish to hurt them.
It's possible to put a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it's not as simple as installing one in a wood door. This is because uPVC and composite doors are available in various thicknesses, which affect how holes are cut and the material you're fixing it into.
If you're installing the flap on a glass door it is recommended to seek out a glazier that is skilled in this type of work to avoid costly errors. If you're fitting the flap on the door made of wood, start by introduction of your cat to it before you fit it to allow them to get used to its shape and size and explore it from all angles.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
You'll need the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap you put in is the perfect fit. This will help you ensure that the cat flap is at the right height for the door or window and that it is large enough for him to get in and exit easily.
To do this, lay your pet on their back and gently rub your fingers across their belly. Look for any squishy fat pads which might be visible around their lower back, face and the limbs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline acrobatics.
You can also take into account the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you need. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg in weight, for example an opening of 14 x 12cm cat flap opening is recommended.
Measure your window or door
Like the name suggests the cat flap is designed to be fixed into an opening and provide a way for your pet to leave or enter as it pleases. They are typically made of plastic or aluminium and simply sit in the centre of the door with a two-way swinging door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. The flaps are available with locking options which provide extra security so that your cat is not able to walk through the door from outside.
A window is a common place to put a cat flap, and they're easy enough to install, though they usually need to be set up high as it is difficult for cats and dogs to access them. If the window is not high enough to use the flap for cats, you can opt for ramps, steps or stairs that are specially designed to help the animal reach it.
It is possible to insert an egress into the brick wall, however it is not recommended for those who are not experienced in brickwork. This could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it is important to make sure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. If there are, a hole needs to be made for them. This is something that you should always seek expert advice on. It's also advisable to wear safety goggles and a dust mask to avoid inhaling any sawdust generated by cutting into the walls of your house.
Choose the right cat flap
There are many cat flaps that are available on the market, and they come with different features. Some cat flaps have security features such as magnetic locks or microchips which prevent unauthorised entry. They also keep your pet from allowing friends or animals to enter the house. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to block draughts and moisture.
There's also a range of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, whereas others are square or circular. Selecting the best cat flap is determined by the space available and the type of window or door you intend to install it on.
Finally think about the opening mechanism that your cat flap will have. A simple aluminum or plastic swing-out door is an alternative and is usually the least expensive. However, it will not keep other animals or cats from gaining access and you could let draughts through too.
After you've chosen the right cat flap and measured your windows or doors, it's time to fit it. Begin by marking the belly height on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is sitting straight against the door and not too low. Utilize your spirit level to draw a sketch of the cat flap. Then, using your Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. When you're happy with the result, sand the edges and then drill through the pencil marks to make holes for the screws.
Make the Tools
It's important to have the right tools when undertaking any DIY project. The most important things you'll require are the cat flap itself as well as a tape measure, an excellent pencil, a spirit level, a file, drill and the Jigsaw (depending on the door or window type).
Consult the manufacturer before making any changes to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal broken. In this instance you'll likely require an additional pane of toughened glass instead.
For wooden or uPVC doors will require cutting out the design of your cat flap using a jigsaw and follow the instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. Use a template to mark the size hole you'll need.
After you've cut the required hole, you'll need to smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop any water damage or rust from happening in the future. It is also recommended to seal the holes in your door or window and the back of the cat flap to keep out rain and wind. After the sealant has dried, you're ready to install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
Fitting a flap will allow your cat to come and go whenever it wants. The majority of people can install the flap on their own. However should you wish to install it on glass or uPVC type door, you may need an expert.
Start by looking at the instructions that come with your cat flap to locate the template drawing. This will give you an idea of where the holes are to be made for the flap on the door. Note the areas you'll need to drill in with the pencil.
After you have mapped out the door's opening, use a jigsaw to cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a relatively easy job, but you'll require a good understanding of the saw. If you're worried about doing this yourself, there are many businesses that can handle this for you at a low cost.
Then, screw the inner part of the door to the hole in your door. You may have to apply sealant before doing this to ensure it remains weather-proof and water resistant. You can then place the outer portion of the flap on top of the fixing bolts and then tighten them all together. It is recommended that you test the cat flap with your cat to make sure that it is working properly and that they are able to get in and out of it.