Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is a great step for any pet owner. There are numerous options for you, whether your cat is old and requires extra security, or you have kittens that need to be examined.
It can be difficult for those who aren't professionals to put in the cat flap, but with the right instructions it's easy. Planning, cat flap glass door installation near me and precision are the key to success.
Select the Right Door or Windows
There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, including some with locks that can be used to prevent your pet from getting out or in, while others have modern features such as microchips or a door entry system. It is important to consider how easy it is for your cat to train to use the flap before you purchase and fit one.
Based on the style of your home, it's generally best to place the cat flap in a window or door that opens out into an area that is protected from the garden, so that your cat is secure when entering and leaving the home. This will also allow them to get back inside if they are chased by other animals or human beings who wish to hurt them.
You can put the cat flap on a uPVC door or a glass window, but it's not as easy as putting one in the door made of wood. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors are available in various thicknesses, which affect the way holes are cut and the materials you're fixing them into.
If you're installing the flap inside a glass door it is recommended to seek out a glazier that is skilled in this kind of work to avoid costly mistakes. If you are fitting the flap onto an existing wooden door you must introduce your cat first to ensure that it becomes familiar with its size and shape.
Find out the size of your cat's belly
You'll need your cat's measurements to make sure that the cat flap you install is the perfect fit. This will help you ensure that the flap is at the right height for your door or window, and that it's large enough for them to enter and exit with ease.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Look for a fat pad that is squishy around the lower back or face, or around the limbs. The extra padding offers your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics felines are known for.
You can also use the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you need. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg, for example the suggested cat flap size is 14x12cm.
Measure your door or window
As the name suggests this kind of cat flap is designed to be fixed into an opening and provide a way for your pet to leave or enter whenever it wants. The flaps are made of aluminum or plastic 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. The flaps can be locked that offer added security, so that your cat is not able to enter the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also often used in windows. They can be easily installed, however they have to be placed at an elevated level since cats and dogs find it difficult to reach them. If the window isn't sufficient in height to be used as the flap for cats, you can make use of ramps, steps, or specially designed stairs to help the animal reach it.
It is possible to install an egress into brick walls, however it is not recommended for those who are not experienced in masonry. This could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's important to make sure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. You should always consult an expert when you need to create a hole for pipes and cables. It's also advisable to wear safety goggles and a dust mask to prevent inhaling any sawdust generated by cutting into the walls of your home.
Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.
There are cat flap glass door installation near me of cat flaps available and they all have various features. Certain cat flaps come with security features such as microchip recognition or magnetic locks which prevent unauthorised entry. They also keep your pet from letting guests or animals to enter the home. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to block out draughts and moisture.
There are different sizes to choose from based on the breed and size of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular, while others are circular or square. The type of cat flap you select will depend on the size of the opening and the kind of door or window you're fixing it to.
Last but not least, consider the type of opening mechanism your cat flap will use. A simple aluminium or plastic swing-out door is one alternative and is usually the least expensive. It will not stop other pets and cats from entering the room, and you could be letting in drafts.
Once you have selected the correct cat flap and measured your windows or doors, it's time to fit it. Begin by marking the belly's height on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure the line is not too low and is straight on the door. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, use a Jigsaw to cut the outline in the door. Once you are satisfied with the result finish sanding the edges and drill through the pencil markings to create holes for screws.
Prepare the Tools
As with any DIY jobs, it's always best to have the proper tools to complete the task. The main things you'll need are the cat flap, a tape measure and an excellent pencil and a spirit level drill, file, and an Jigsaw (depending on your windows or doors).
If you're installing a composite door, it is recommended to check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes, since this could affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this instance you'll have to install an additional 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 and follow the instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. If possible, you can use an outline to help identify the size of the hole you need to cut.
After you've cut the hole, you'll have to sand off the edges of the opening. This will help prevent any future water damage or rust. In the end, you must apply any necessary sealant to the back of the cat flap, and to the holes in the door or window to block the elements of wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry it is time to install your cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to go and come as it pleases, fitting flaps can be helpful. The majority of people can install the flap on their own. However, if you want to put it in a glass or uPVC type door, you might need a professional.
Begin by studying the instructions that come with your cat flap to locate the drawing template. This will give you an idea of the location where holes need to be drilled for the flap to be placed in the door. Mark the areas you'll have to drill with pencil.
After you have marked the area on your door, you can use the jigsaw to cut the shape for the cat flap. This is a relatively easy job, but you'll require a good understanding of a jigsaw. Numerous companies will perform this for you at a reasonable cost If you're not sure how to tackle it yourself.
Then, attach the outer part to the hole in your door. You may have to apply sealant before making this move to ensure it stays watertight and weather resistant. Then, you can put the outer portion of the flap on the top of the fixing bolts and tighten them all. You should test the cat flap on your cat to make sure that it's working properly and allows them to enter and exit easily.