Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap your home is a great step for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and requires extra security, or you have new kittens that need to be vetted, there are a lot of options there for you.
It can be a bit daunting for people who aren't experts in installing the cat flap, but with proper instructions, it's simple. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the most important factors.
Select the Right Door, or Windows
There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to keep your pet from getting out or in, while others have advanced features like microchips for door entry system. But, it's important to think about how easy your cat is to train to use the flap prior to making a purchase and fit one.
It is best to place the cat flap, based on the style of your home, inside the form of a window that opens to a sheltered garden area. This will help your cat feel safe when entering or leaving your home. This will also allow them to return inside if they're chased by another animal or humans who want to hurt them.
You can put an egress flap inside the form of a uPVC door or glass window, but it's not as straightforward as fitting one into wooden doors. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors are available in different thicknesses, and this can impact the way holes are cut and what you're fixing into.
If you're installing the flap in a glass door it is recommended to find a glazier who is experienced in this kind of work to avoid costly errors. If you're installing the flap on the door made of wood, start by introduction of your cat to it prior to fitting it, so that they become familiar with its size and shape and explore it from every angle.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
In order to put in a cat flap that's suitable for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat's size. This will help you ensure that the cat flap is installed at the right height for the window or door, and that it is large enough for him to get in and out easily.
To do this, place your pet on their back and gently rub your fingers across their belly. Feel for any squishy fat pads that could be visible on their lower back, face or the limbs. The padding provides your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the acrobatics cats are famous for.
Alternately, you could use your pet's weight to gauge how big an opening you require. If your cat weighs 5Kg, for example the suggested flap opening size is 14 x 12cm.
Take a measurement of your windows or doors
Like the name suggests, this type of cat flap is made to be attached to a door and provides an opportunity for your pet to go in or out at any time it wishes. They are typically made of plastic or aluminium and simply sit in the centre of the door with the possibility of a swinging door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. The flaps are available in locking versions that offer added security, which means that your cat can't traverse the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also often employed in windows. They are able to be easily installed, however they have to be placed at an elevated level since cats and dogs have a difficult time to access them. If the window is too high for a cat flap, ramps, steps or specially constructed stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it.
It is possible to install a cat flap into a brickwall, but it is not recommended for people who aren't familiar with masonry. a fantastic read could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it is important to make sure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. It is recommended to consult an expert if you have to create a hole for pipes or cables. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask will help you avoid inhaling the sawdust that is created when cutting through your walls.
Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.
There are a variety of cat flaps available on the market, and they all offer different features. Some are equipped with security features like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry and also prevent your pet from allowing friends or other animals into the home. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to block water and drafts.
There is also a choice of sizes, based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are circular or square. Choosing the right type of cat flap will be dictated by the space available and the type of window or door you intend to install it on.
Lastly, think about the mechanism for opening your cat flap will come with. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. However, it will not keep other animals or cats from entering your home and you could let draughts in as well.
After back door with cat flap fitted 've chosen the right cat flap and measured your door or window, it's time to fit it. Start by marking the belly's height on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit-level to make sure that the line isn't too low and is straight on the door. Create a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, using your Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. Once you are happy with the result finish sanding the edges and drill through the pencil lines to create holes for screws.
Prepare the Tools
As with all DIY tasks, it's best to have the proper tools for the job. 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 a Jigsaw (depending on the door or window type).
Consult the manufacturer before making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal damaged. In this case, you'll probably have to install an additional pane of toughened glass instead.
You'll need an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. Make use of a template to mark the size hole you need.
After you've made the hole, you will have to sand the edges of the opening. This will prevent any rust or water damage from happening in the near future. Finally, you should apply any sealant that is needed to the rear of the cat flap and to the holes in the window or door to block the elements of wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry, you can install your new cat-flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to come and go as it pleases, fitting flaps can be helpful. This is a simple process that most people can accomplish by themselves, though you'll likely require the assistance of a professional if you are installing the flap on a glass door or other kind of uPVC door.
Begin by reading the instructions included with the flap to locate the template. This will give you an idea of the location where the holes will be made for the flap to be placed in the door. Note the areas you'll have to drill using the pencil.
After you've marked the area on your door, you can use the jigsaw and cut out the shape for the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task, but you will have to be comfortable using a saw. Numerous companies will perform this work for you at a reasonable cost in case you're hesitant to do it yourself.
Next, you will need to attach the interior part of the flap onto the door's hole. It is possible to seal the flap before you do this to ensure it is weatherproof and watertight. The outer part of your cat flap could be placed on the bolts' tops and then tightened together. You must test the cat flap on your cat to ensure that it is working correctly and that it allows them to enter and exit easily.