Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in your home is a great option for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have kittens who require a vet check there are a lot of options there to choose from.
Installing a cat flap may be a daunting task for novices, but with the right instructions, it's not difficult to complete. The key is preparation, planning and precision.
Choose the Right Door or Windows
There are a variety of cat flaps that are available that come with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from going out or coming in) and others with high-tech features such as microchip door entry systems. It is important to consider how it is easy to train your cat to use the flap, before you purchase and install one.
Depending on the style of your house, it's generally best to put the cat flap near the form of a door or window that opens out into an area that is protected from the garden, so that your cat will feel secure entering and leaving the home. try these guys out will also allow them to get back inside in the event of being chased by another animal or human who wants to hurt them.
It's possible to install the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it's not the same as fitting one in a wood door. This is because uPVC or composite doors come in different thicknesses. This can affect the how holes are cut and the material you put into.
If you're installing the flap on the glass of a door it is recommended to find a glazier who is experienced in such work to avoid costly mistakes. If you're installing the flap on a wooden door, start by the cat with it before you fit it so that they can be familiar with its size and shape and explore it from all angles.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
In order to install the right cat flap that's the right size for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat. This will ensure that the flap is at the correct height on your door or window, and that it's large enough to allow them to enter and exit with ease.
Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers across their belly. Feel for any fat pads that are squishy that could be visible on their lower back, face, and legs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline circus skills.
Alternately, you could make use of your pet's weight to determine the size of an opening you require. If your cat is at or above 5kg in weight for instance an opening of 14 x 12cm flap for the cat is advised.
Make sure you measure your door or window
This kind of cat flap, as its name suggests, is made to be fitted into a door. It lets your pet enter and exit at its convenience. They are usually made of aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door. They come with an open door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps that provide added security so your cat won't be able to simply walk through from the outside.
A window is another common location for a cat flap, and they're easy enough to install, though they often need to be located high enough as it's difficult for cats and dogs to reach them otherwise. If the window is too high to be used as a cat flap then ramps, steps, or specially built stairs can be utilized to aid the animal in accessing it.
A cat flap can be installed to a brick wall, but this is not recommended unless you are familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's essential to ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. If there are, then there must be a hole created for them and this is something you should always seek professional advice on. It is also recommended to wear safety goggles and a dust mask to avoid breathing in any of the sawdust created by cutting into your home's walls.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are numerous cat flaps available and each one comes with various features. Some are equipped with security features 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 also have insulation and weatherproof seals to keep out water and drafts.
There are also different sizes that are available 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 as well as the type of window or door you are fitting it to.
Finally think about the opening mechanism that your cat flap is likely to have. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. It won't prevent other cats and pets from entering the room, and you could let in draughts.
Once you have selected the right cat flap and measured your windows or doors, it's time to fit it. Start by marking the belly height on the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is straight on the door and not too low. Use your spirit level to draw a template of the flap for cats. Then, using the jigsaw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you are happy with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil marks to create holes for screws.
Make sure you have the tools ready
It's important to have the right tools when performing any DIY project. The most essential things you'll need are the cat flap, a tape measure and a decent pencil, a spirit level, drill, file and a jigsaw (depending on the window or door type).
If you're installing a composite door, you should check with the manufacturer prior to making any alterations as this may cause the warranty to be invalidated or break the weathertight seal. In this scenario you'll likely require a new pane of toughened glass instead.
For wooden or uPVC doors will require cutting out the design of your cat flap using a Jigsaw. Follow the directions that are provided by the manufacturer. If you can, use an outline to help mark out the size of the hole you will need to cut.
After you have cut the hole, you will have to sand off the edges of the opening. This will prevent any water damage or rust from happening in the near future. It is also recommended to seal the holes in your door or window and the back of the flap to keep out wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry then you can put up your new cat-flap!
Install the Flap
The installation of a flap will allow your cat to go and come whenever it wants. The majority of people can install the flap on their own. However should you wish to install it in glass or uPVC type door, you may need a professional.
Begin by reading the instructions included with the flap to locate the drawing template. This will give you an idea of where the holes will be drilled to install the flap to be placed in the door. Mark the areas in which you will must drill using a pencil.
After you've marked the area in your door, use a jigsaw to cut out the shape of the cat flap. It is a relatively simple task, but you'll require a good understanding of a jigsaw. If you're worried about doing it yourself, there are a lot of businesses that can handle this for you at a very low cost.
Then, you can screw the inside part to the hole of your door. It might be necessary to seal the flap before you do this, in order to keep it weatherproof and watertight. You can then put the outer part of the flap on top of the fixing bolts, and tighten the bolts all together. It is recommended to test the flap with your cat to ensure that it is working properly and that they can enter and leave easily through it.