Fitting a Cat Flap

Getting cat flaps for french doors fitted in to your home can be a big step for any pet owner. If your cat is old and requires extra security, or you have new kittens who require a vet check, there are plenty of options there to choose from.
It can be a bit daunting for people who aren't experts in installing an animal flap, but with proper guidelines, it's easy. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the most important factors.
Choose the Right Door, or Window
There are a wide variety of cat flaps available that come with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet going out or coming in) and others with high-tech features such as microchip door entry systems. But, it's important to consider how easy it is for your cat to teach to use the flap before you purchase and install one.
Depending on the style of your home, it's usually best to place the cat flap inside the form of a door or window that opens onto a sheltered area of the garden, so that your cat is secure when entering and leaving the home. This will also allow them to go back inside if they are pursued by a pet or humans who want to hurt them.
It's possible to put the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as easy as putting one on a wooden door. It's because uPVC or composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses. This could affect the how holes are cut and the material you put to.
To avoid costly mistakes to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended that you consult an expert glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you're installing the flap to a wooden door, you should introduce your cat first so that it can become familiar with its dimensions and shape.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
You'll need the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap you put in is a perfect fit. This will allow you to make sure that the flap is placed at the right height for the window or door, and also that it's large enough for him to enter and out easily.
To do this, lay your pet on their back and run your fingers gently along their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back and face, as well as the legs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline Acrobatics.
Alternately, you could make use of your pet's weight to determine the size of an opening you'll need. If your cat weighs more than 5kg, for instance the suggested cat flap size is 14x12cm.
Measure Your Door or Window
As the name suggests the cat flap is designed to be affixed to a door and provides the pet with a way to leave or enter whenever it wants. These flaps are constructed of aluminum or plastic and are located in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that can be opened by lightly pushing on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps, which provide added security so your cat can't simply enter the door from the outside.
A window is another common location for a cat's flap, and they're easy enough to put in, but they are usually set up high as it is difficult for cats and dogs to access them. If the window isn't high enough to use a cat's flap, then you can opt for ramps, steps or specially designed stairs to help the animal reach it.
A cat flap can also be fitted into a brick wall but this is not recommended unless you're familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it's important to ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. If they are, there must be a hole made for them. This is something you should always seek expert advice on. It's also advisable to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust-proof mask to prevent inhaling any sawdust generated by cutting holes in the walls of your house.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are a variety of cat flaps on the market and each one comes with different features. Some have security options such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition to stop unauthorized entry and restrict your pet from letting guests or other animals to enter the home. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to block water and drafts.
There's also a range 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 best type of cat flap is determined by the space you have available as well as the type of door or window you intend to install it on.
Last but not least, consider the type of opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. However, it won't stop other pets or cats from entering your home and you could let draughts through as well.
Once you have selected the correct cat flap and measured your door or window, it's time to fit it. Begin by marking the height of the belly on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit-level to ensure that the line is not too low and is straight on the door. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, using the Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. When you're satisfied with the results sand down the edges and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for screws.
Prepare the Tools
As with any DIY tasks, it's best to have the appropriate tools for the job. You'll need the cat flap as well as a pencil and tape measure along with a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the type of door or window.
If you're installing a composite door, you should check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes, because this could cause the warranty to be invalidated or break the weathertight seal. In this scenario you'll have to install a new pane of toughened glass instead.
You'll need to use the jigsaw to cut your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions provided by the manufacture. Use a template to determine the size of hole you'll need.
After you've made the hole, you'll have to sand off the edges of the opening. This will help prevent any future water damage or rust. You should also cover the holes in your window or door and the back of the cat flap to keep out rain and wind. When the sealant has dried then you're now ready to put in your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
The installation of a flap will allow your cat to come and go whenever it wants. It's a simple procedure that most people can accomplish themselves, although you will likely require the assistance of an expert for installing the flap on an unglazed door or any other type of uPVC door.
Begin by studying the instructions included with your cat flap to find the drawing template. This will provide you with an idea of where the holes for the flap need to be drilled into the door. Then, mark the places in which you will need to drill with the pencil.
After you've marked the area in your door, use a jigsaw to cut out the design of the cat flap. It is a relatively simple task, but you'll have to be comfortable using a Jigsaw. Many companies will complete this task for you at a reasonable cost if you are hesitant to take on the task yourself.
The next step is to attach the interior part of the cat flap to the door's hole. You may need to apply sealant before doing this to ensure that it is weather and water resistant. Then, you can put the outer portion of the cat flap on top of the fixing bolts and tighten the bolts all together. composite door cat flap is recommended that you test the flap using your cat to make sure that it functions properly and that they can get in and out of it.