Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in your home is an excellent step for any pet owner. There are numerous options to you, regardless of whether your cat is older and requires extra security or if you have kittens that need to be vetted.
It can be difficult for people who aren't experts in installing an animal flap, but with the proper instructions, it's simple. The key is preparation, planning and precision.
Choose the Right Door or Window
There are a variety of cat flaps, including some with locks that can be used to keep your pet from getting out or in, while others have advanced features like microchips for door entry systems. However, it's important to think about how easy it is for your cat to train to use the flap before you purchase and fit one.
It is best to place the cat flap, depending on the design of your home, inside an opening that leads into a garden that is sheltered. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering and leaving your home. If possible it will also provide them a way back case they are pursued by a different cat or by humans who are intent to hurt them.
It is possible to install a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it's not the same as fitting one in a wood door. It's because uPVC or composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses. This could affect the way holes are cut, and the type of door you can fix to.
If you're installing the flap inside a glass door it is recommended to find a glazier who is experienced in this kind of work to avoid any costly mistakes. If you're fitting the flap to an existing wooden door you must introduce your cat to it at first so that it can become familiar with its dimensions and shape.
Find out the size of your cat's belly
In order to install an appropriate cat flap that is the right size for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat's height. This will allow you to ensure that your cat flap is placed at the right height on the door or window, and that it is large enough for him to enter and out easily.
To do this, lay your pet on their back and gently rub your fingers across their belly. Feel for any fat pads that are squishy - these may be visible around their lower back, face and the limbs. Repair My Windows And Doors offers your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the acrobatics cats are known for.
You can also take into account the weight of your pet to determine the size of opening you require. If your cat is at or above 5kg in weight for instance that's a 14x12cm cat flap opening is advised.
Make sure you measure your door or window
Like the name suggests this kind of cat flap is designed to be fixed into the door, and offers the pet with a way to leave or enter as it pleases. They are typically made of aluminum or plastic and sit in the centre of the door with an open door that opens by pushing lightly on either side. There are locks on some of these flaps, which provide additional security to ensure that your cat isn't able to enter the door from the outside.
A window is another common place to put a cat flap and these are easy enough to put in, but they often need to be placed high up as it's difficult for dogs and cats to reach them otherwise. If the window is not sufficient to accommodate a cat's flap, then you can make use of steps, ramps or stairs that are specially designed to help the animal reach it.
It is possible to put an egress into a brickwall, but it is not recommended for those who aren't familiar with masonry. This could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it is important to make sure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. It is recommended to consult an expert when you need to cut a hole in the wall for cables and pipes. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask will ensure that you don't breathe in the dust that is generated when you cut into your walls.
Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.
There are numerous cat flaps that are available on the market, and they have various features. Some come with security options such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition to stop unauthorized entry and restrict your pet from letting friends or other animals into the home. Some have weatherproof seals and insulation to block out draughts and moisture.
There are different sizes available depending on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are available in rectangular shapes, whereas others are square or circular. The best type of cat flap will be determined by the space you have available and the kind of window or door you are fitting it to.
Lastly think about the mechanism for opening your cat flap will come with. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. However, it will not stop other pets or cats from entering and you may let draughts through as well.
Once you've selected the appropriate cat flap and measured your window or door and window, it's now time to put it in place it. Start by marking the belly's height on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is sitting straight 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 the jigsaw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you're happy with the result, sand the edges and then drill through the pencil marks to make holes for the screws.
Make sure you have the tools ready
As with all DIY tasks, it's advisable to make sure you have the appropriate tools for the job. You'll require the cat flap, an eraser and tape measure along with a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the kind of window or door.
If you're installing a composite door, you should check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes as this may invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this instance you'll likely require a new pane of toughened glass instead.
You'll need to use an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. If you can, use an outline to help identify the size of hole you will need to cut.
After you've cut the required hole, you'll need to smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will prevent any water damage or rust from happening in the near future. Finally, you should apply any sealant that is needed to the back of the cat flap and to the holes in the window or door to keep out rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry it is time to install your cat flap!
Install the Flap
Installing a flap allows your cat to come and go whenever it pleases. The majority of people can install the flap themselves. However when you plan to install it in a glass or uPVC type door, you might need an expert.
Begin by reading the instructions included with your cat flap to find the template drawing. This will give you an idea of where holes for the flap will need to be made in the door. Mark the areas that you'll have to drill using pencil.
After you've marked the door's opening and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the design of the cat flap. It is a relatively simple task, but you will need to be comfortable using a saw. Numerous companies will perform this for you at a reasonable cost if you are hesitant to take on the task yourself.
Next, you will need to attach the inside of the cat flap to the door's hole. It is possible to seal the flap prior to you do this to keep it weatherproof and watertight. The outer part of your cat flap could be placed on the bolts' tops and then securing them. It is recommended to test the cat flap with your cat to make sure that it functions properly and that they are able to enter and leave easily through it.