Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap inside your home can be a big step for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and needs extra security or you have new kittens who require a vet check there are plenty of options there to choose from.
It can be intimidating for non-professionals to install an animal flap, but with the proper instructions, it's simple. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and accuracy.
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 from going out or coming in) and others that have high-tech features such as microchips for door entry systems. It is important to think about how easy it will be to teach your cat how to use the flap, before you buy and install one.
Depending on the style of your home, it's generally best to place the cat flap near an opening or window that opens onto a sheltered area of the garden so that your cat is secure when entering and leaving the home. If you can, this will also give them a route back in should they get pursued by a different cat or by humans intent to hurt them.
You can install an egress flap inside a uPVC door or glass window however, it's not as simple as fitting one into a wooden door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors are available in various thicknesses, and this can impact the way holes are cut as well as the material you're fixing it to.
If you're installing the flap in the glass of a door, it's recommended that you find a glazier who is experienced in such work to avoid costly errors. If you're fitting the flap to a wooden door it is recommended that you introduce your cat to it first to make sure it is familiar with its dimensions and shape.
Find out the size of your cat's belly
To install a cat flap that's the right size for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat's size. This will allow you to ensure that your cat flap is installed at the correct height on the window or door, and that it is large enough for him to enter and out easily.
To do this, put your pet on their back and run your fingers gently across their belly. Look for a fat pad that is squishy around the lower back, face or limbs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline Acrobatics.
Alternately, you could use your pet's weight to gauge how big an opening you'll need. If your cat is at or over 5kg, for example that's a 14x12cm flap for the cat is advised.
Measure your door or window
Like the name suggests this kind of cat flap is designed to be fixed into the door, and offers a way for your pet to enter or leave at any time it wishes. They are usually made of aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door with an open door that opens by pushing lightly on either side. There are locks on some of these flaps that offer added security so your cat isn't able to traverse through the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also commonly used on windows. They are easy to be installed, however they have to be placed at an elevated level since cats and dogs find it difficult to reach them. If the window is too high to use a cat flap, then ramps, steps, or specially built stairs can be used to help the animal access it.
Cat flaps can be incorporated into a brick wall, however this is not recommended unless experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the wall's structure. It is important to make sure there are no cables and pipes inside the wall before you begin. If there are, a hole needs to be created for them and this is something that you should always seek professional advice on. Wearing protective glasses or a dust mask can ensure that you don't breathe in the sawdust created when cutting into your walls.
Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.
There are numerous cat flaps available on the market, and all offer different features. Some have security options like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by unauthorized persons and stop your pet allowing friends or other animals into the house. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to keep out the elements and keep out drafts.
There's also a variety of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. upvc door panel cat flap are rectangular, while others are circular or square. Choosing the right type of cat flap will be dictated by the space you have available and the type of door or window you want to attach it to.
The last thing to do is consider the type of opening mechanism your cat flap will use. The cheapest option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. However, it will not prevent other cats or pets from entering your home and you could let draughts in too.
After you've chosen the correct cat flap and measured the door or window and window, it's now time to put it in place it. Mark the belly height of the door using a ruler. Make use of a spirit-level to ensure that the line is not too low and that it is straight across the door. Use your spirit level to draw a template for the flap for cats. Next, use your saw to cut out the outline in the door. When you are satisfied with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil lines to create holes for screws.
Prepare the Tools
It's important to have the right tools available when undertaking any DIY project. You'll need a cat flap, tape measure and pencil as well as a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the type of window or door.
Contact the manufacturer prior to making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal damaged. In this case you'll likely have to install a new pane of toughened glass instead.
For wooden or uPVC doors you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap using the jigsaw and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. If possible, you can use a template to help you identify the size of hole you need to cut.
After you've cut the hole, you'll have to sand the edges of the opening. This should prevent any rust or water damage from happening in the near future. You should also cover the holes in your door or window and the back of the flap to keep out rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry, 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. Most people can put in the flap by themselves. However when you plan to install it on glass or uPVC type door, you may need an expert.
Begin by studying the instructions provided with the flap to locate the template. This will provide you with an idea of where the holes for the flap have to be made in the door. Then, mark the places in which you will must drill using the pencil.
After you have marked the door on your door, you can use the jigsaw and cut out the the cat flap. It's a relatively easy job however you'll need be comfortable using the saw. If you're worried about doing it yourself, there are plenty of businesses that can handle this for you at a low cost.
Next, you will need to attach the interior part of the flap onto the door's hole. You may need to seal it prior to doing this to ensure that it stays watertight and weather resistant. The outer part of your cat flap may be placed on the bolts' tops and then tightened together. It is recommended that you test the cat flap with your cat to ensure that it functions properly and that they are able to move easily through it.