Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap your home is an excellent step for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and requires additional security, or you have kittens who require a vet check there are plenty of options out there to choose from.
It can be difficult for people who aren't experts in installing an animal flap, but with proper instructions, it's simple. The key is preparation, planning and precision.
Select the Right Door or Window
There are a wide variety of cat flaps to choose from that come with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from leaving or entering) and others that have high-tech features like microchip door entry systems. It is important to consider how easy it is for your cat to teach to use the flap before you buy and install one.
It is recommended to put the cat flap, depending on the style of your home, in a window that opens into a garden that is sheltered. This will help your cat feel secure when entering or leaving your home. If possible, this will also give them a route back in should they get pursued by a different cat or by a human intent to hurt them.
You can put the cat flap on the form of a uPVC door or a glass window however, it's not as straightforward as fitting one into the door made of wood. It's because uPVC or composite doors are available in various thicknesses. This can impact the way holes are cut, and the type of door you can fix to.
If you're installing the flap inside glass doors, it's recommended that you consult a glazier who specialises in this type of work to avoid any costly mistakes. If you're installing the flap in the door made of wood, start by introduction of your cat to it before you fit it, so that they get used to its shape and size and explore it from every angle.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
In order to put in an appropriate cat flap that is suitable for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat's size. This will help you ensure that your cat flap is placed at the right height on the door or window and that it is large enough to allow him to enter and leave easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Check for any fat pads that are squishy that could be visible on their lower back, face, and legs. upvc door panel with cat flap fitted helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline acrobatics.
You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you require. If your cat weighs 5Kg, for example the suggested flap opening size is 14x12cm.
Make sure you measure your door or window
This kind of cat flap, as the name suggests is made to be fitted into the door. It allows your pet to move in and out at their convenience. 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 now locking versions of these flaps, which provide additional security to ensure that your cat won't be able to simply enter the door from the outside.
A window is another popular location for a cat flap, and they are simple enough to put in, but they usually need to be located high enough as it's difficult for cats and dogs to reach them otherwise. If the window isn't sufficient to accommodate a cat's flap, you can make use of ramps, steps, or specially designed stairs to aid the animal in getting to it.
A cat flap can be installed to a brick wall, but this is not recommended unless experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it is important to ensure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. If there are, there must be a hole made for them. This is something that you should always seek professional advice on. It's also advisable to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust protection mask to avoid inhaling any sawdust generated by cutting into your home's walls.
Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.
There are many cat flaps that are available on the market, and they come with different features. Certain cat flaps come with security features like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also keep your pet from letting friends or animals to enter the home. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to keep out the elements of moisture and draughts.
There are different sizes that are available based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular, while others are square or circular. Choosing the right type of cat flap is determined by the space you have available as well as the type of window or door you want to attach it to.
The last thing to do is consider the type of opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. A simple aluminium or plastic swing-out door is one choice and is typically the least expensive. However, it will not prevent other cats or pets from gaining access and you could let draughts in too.
Once you have selected the correct cat flap and measured your windows or doors then it's time to install it. Determine the belly height of the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is exactly on the door and not too low. Create a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, using your saw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you are satisfied with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil markings to create holes for screws.
Make sure you have the tools ready
It is essential to have the right tools when undertaking any DIY project. You'll need a cat flap along with a pencil and tape measure, a spirit-level, a drill and a jigsaw depending on the kind of door or window.
If you're installing in a composite door, you should consult with the manufacturer before making any changes because this could cause the warranty to be invalidated or break the weathertight seal. In this case you'll likely require a new pane of toughened glass instead.
For wooden or uPVC doors will require cutting out the shape of your cat flap with the jigsaw and follow the instructions given by the manufacturer. If possible, you can use an outline to help determine the size of the hole you will need to cut.
After you've cut the required hole, you should then smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will help prevent the possibility of water damage and rust. You should also cover the holes in your door or window and the back of the flap to block wind and rain. When the sealant has dried and dry, you can install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to come and go at will, installing flaps can be helpful. Most people can put in the flap on their own. However should you wish to install it in a glass or uPVC type door, you may require an expert.
Begin by studying the instructions included with your cat flap to find the drawing template. This will provide you with an idea of where holes for the flap have to be drilled in the door. Mark the areas you will have to drill using a pencil.
After you have marked the door on your door, you can use the jigsaw and cut out the shape for the cat flap. This is a relatively simple task however you'll need be comfortable using a jigsaw. Many companies will do this task for you for a reasonable price If you're not sure how to do it yourself.
Next, you will need to screw the inner part of the flap onto the door's hole. You may have to apply sealant before doing this to ensure that it stays watertight and weather resistant. The outer part of your cat flap can be placed on the bolts on top, and then securing them. It is recommended to test the flap with your cat to make sure that it works correctly and that they are able to enter and leave easily through it.