Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in to your home can be a big step for any pet owner. There are many options available for you, whether your cat is old and requires additional security or if you have kittens that require to be checked.
It can be intimidating for non-professionals to install a cat flap, but with right instructions it's easy. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the key to success.
Select the Right Door, or Windows
There's a wide selection of cat flaps that are available 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 think about how easy it is for your cat to train to use the flap prior to making a buy and install one.
Based on the style of your home It is recommended to put the cat flap in a window or door that opens onto an area that is protected from the garden, so that your cat will feel secure entering and leaving the home. If possible this will also allow them a way back case they are chased by a cat or by humans intent to hurt them.
It is possible to install a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't the same as fitting one on a wooden door. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in different thicknesses. read what he said could affect the how holes are cut and what you fix into.
If you're installing the flap inside glass doors it is recommended to find a glazier who is experienced in such work to avoid any costly errors. If you are fitting the flap onto an existing wooden door, you should introduce your cat to it at first to make sure it is familiar with its size and shape.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
You'll need your cat's measurements to make sure that the cat flap you install is a good fit. This will allow you to ensure that the cat flap is at the right height for the door or window, and also that it's large enough to allow him to enter and leave easily.
To do this, put your pet on their back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back and face, as well as the limbs. The padding 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 opening you require. If your cat weighs more than 5Kg, for example, the suggested cat flap size is 14x12cm.
Measure Your Door or Window
This type of cat flap, as its name suggests, is designed to be affixed to the door. It allows your pet to be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. These flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and are located in the middle of the door. They have a two-way swinging opening that is opened by lightly pushing on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps that offer added security so your cat won't be able to simply enter the door from the outside.
Cat flaps are also frequently used on windows. They can be easily installed, however they have to be set at a height where cats and dogs have a difficult time to access them. If the window is too high for a cat flap, then ramps, steps, or specially built stairs can be used to aid the animal in accessing it.
It is possible to insert a cat flap into the brick wall, however it is not recommended for people who aren't familiar with masonry. This could weaken the structure of the wall. It's important to check that there aren't any cables or pipes within the wall before you begin. It is recommended to consult an expert when you need to create a hole for pipes and cables. Wearing protective glasses or a dust mask can help you avoid inhaling the sawdust that is created when cutting into your walls.
Choose the right cat flap
There are numerous cat flaps available and all of them offer different features. Some are equipped with security features like magnetic locks or microchips that block entry by unauthorized persons and prevent your pet from allowing pets or friends into the home. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals that keep out water and drafts.
There's also a variety of sizes, based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are available in rectangular shapes, whereas others are square or circular. The kind of cat flap you choose will depend on the size of the opening and the type of window or door you're installing it to.
The last thing to do is consider the type of opening mechanism your cat flap will use. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. But, it will not stop other pets or cats from entering your home and you could be letting draughts in too.
Once you've selected the appropriate cat flap and measured the windows or doors then it's time to install it. Begin by marking the belly height on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit-level to make sure the line isn't too low and that it is straight across the door. Create a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, use a saw to cut out the outline in the door. When you are satisfied with the result finish sanding the edges and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.
Prepare the Tools
It is essential to have the right tools available when undertaking any DIY project. The most essential things you'll need are the cat flap itself along with a tape measure, a good pencil as well as a spirit level, a file, drill and an Jigsaw (depending on your windows or doors).
Consult the manufacturer before making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to become damaged. In this scenario you'll likely need to fit an additional pane of toughened glass instead.
You'll need to use a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines provided by the manufacture. If possible, use a template to help you determine the size of hole you have to cut.
After Full Post cut the hole, you'll need to sand the edges of the opening. This will help prevent the possibility of water damage and rust. In the end, you must apply any sealant that is needed to the back of the cat flap as well as to the holes in the door or window to keep out rain and wind. When the sealant has dried and dry, you can install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
The installation of a flap will allow your cat to come and go whenever it pleases. This is a simple process that most people can accomplish on their own, but you may require the assistance of an expert if you're installing the flap in an unglazed door or any other type of uPVC door.
Take a look at the instructions included with the cat flap. You will find a drawing of the template. This will give you an idea of where the holes will be made for the flap on the door. Then, mark the areas that you'll must drill using pencil.
After you have marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw and cut out the design for the cat flap. This is a relatively simple task however you'll need be comfortable using the Jigsaw. If you're worried about doing this yourself, there are a lot of companies that can complete this for you at a very low cost.
The next step is to screw the inner part of the flap onto the door's hole. It may be necessary to seal the flap before you do this to keep it waterproof and weatherproof. The outer section of your cat flap could be placed on the bolts on top, and then tightened together. You must test the cat flap on your cat to make sure that it functions properly and that it allows the cat to go in and out easily.