Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap your home is an excellent option for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and requires additional security, or you have new kittens who require a vet check, there are a lot of options there for you.
Installing a cat flap can be intimidating for people who aren't professionals, but with the right instructions, it's not hard to complete. Planning, preparation and precision are the keys.
Choose the Right Door or Window
There are a wide variety of cat flaps that are available that come with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from going out or entering) and others with high-tech features such as microchips for door entry systems. It is important to think about how it is easy to teach your cat to use the flap before you buy and install one.
It's best to place the cat flap, based on the design of your home, inside a window that opens into a sheltered garden area. double glazing cat flap will allow your cat to feel safe when entering or leaving your home. If possible, this will also give them a route back in should they be pursued by a different cat or by a human intent to hurt them.
It is possible to install the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't the same as fitting one on a wooden door. It's because uPVC or composite doors are available in a variety of thicknesses. This could affect the how holes are cut and what you fix into.
To avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended to consult a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If you're fitting the flap to a wooden door, start by introduction of your cat to it before you fit it to allow them to become familiar with its size and shape and explore it from every angle.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
To install the right cat flap that's suitable for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat's size. This will help you make sure that the flap is placed at the right height for the window or door, and that it's big enough for him to enter and leave easily.
To do this, lay your pet on their back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back or face, or around the legs. The padding gives your pet safety and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the acrobatics cats are famous for.
You can also take into account the weight of your pet to determine the size of opening you require. If your cat weighs up to 5kg, for instance the suggested flap size is 14x12cm.
Take a measurement of your door or window
This kind of cat flap, as the name suggests is made to be fitted into a door. It lets your pet enter and exit at its convenience. They are typically made of plastic or aluminium and simply rest in the middle of the door. They come with the possibility of a swinging door that opens by pushing lightly on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps that provide extra security, so your cat isn't able to traverse through the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also frequently used on windows. They can be easily installed, however they have to be placed at an elevated level since cats and dogs find it difficult to get them. If the window isn't high enough to use the flap for cats, you can make use of steps, ramps or stairs that are specially designed to help the animal reach it.
It is possible to insert an egress into brick walls, however it is not recommended for those who are not experienced in brickwork. This could cause the wall to weaken. Before you begin, it is important to make sure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. If they are, an opening must be made for them. This is something that you should always seek professional advice on. It's also advisable to wear protective goggles and a dust-proof mask to avoid breathing in any sawdust that is created by cutting holes in the walls of your home.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are a variety of cat flaps available and they all have various features. Some come with security options like magnetic locks or microchip recognition to stop unauthorized entry and restrict your pet from letting pets or friends into the house. Some have weatherproof seals and insulation to block out the elements and keep out drafts.
There is also a choice of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, whereas others are circular or square. The type of cat flap you select will depend on the size of the opening and the type of window or door you're fixing it to.
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. It will not stop other pets and cats from entering, and you could also be letting in drafts.
It's time to put in your cat flap. Mark the belly height of the door with your ruler. Use 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. Then, using your Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. When you're satisfied with the result, sand the edges and drill through the pencil marks to create holes for the screws.
Make the Tools
Like all DIY jobs, it's always best to have the appropriate tools for the job. The main things you'll need are the cat flap, a tape measure and a good pencil as well as a spirit level, a file, drill and an jigsaw (depending on the windows or doors).
If you're installing in a composite door, it is recommended to consult with the manufacturer prior to making any changes since this could affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this instance, you'll probably have to install a new pane of toughened glass instead.
For wooden or uPVC doors will require cutting out the design of your cat flap with the Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines given by the manufacturer. If you can, use a template to help you mark out the size of hole you'll have to cut.
After you've cut the hole, you will have to sand off the edges of the opening. This will help prevent future rust and water damage. Finally, you should apply any sealant that is needed to the rear of the cat flap as well as to the holes in the window or door to block the elements of wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry, you're ready to install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to move around whenever it wants, installing flaps can aid. Most people can put in the flap themselves. However when you plan to install it on the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you may require an expert.
Look at the instructions that came with your cat flap. You will find a template drawing. This will provide you with an idea of where holes for the flap will need to be drilled in the door. Then, mark the areas in which you will must drill using pencil.
After you have mapped out the door's opening, use a jigsaw to cut out the design of the cat flap. It is a relatively simple task, but you will require a good understanding of a jigsaw. Numerous companies will perform this for you for a reasonable price If you're not sure how to take on the task yourself.
Next, you will need to attach the inside of the flap onto the door's hole. It might be necessary to seal the flap before you do this to ensure it is weatherproof and watertight. The outside of your cat flap can be placed on the bolts on top, and then securing them. You should test the flap on your cat to ensure that it functions properly and that it allows them to exit and enter easily.