Fitting a Cat Flap

Getting a cat flap fitted into your home could be a big step for any pet owner. There are many options available for you, whether your cat is getting older and requires extra security or you have kittens that require to be vetted.
It can be difficult for those who aren't professionals to put in a cat flap, but with the proper instructions, it's simple. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the most important factors.
Select the Right Door or Window
There's a wide selection of cat flaps to choose from, some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from going out or entering) and others with high-tech features such as microchip door entry systems. However, it's important to think about the ease of your cat to train to use the flap prior to making a buy and install one.
It's best to place the cat flap, depending on the design of your home, in an opening that leads into an area of the garden that is protected. This 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 get chased by another cat or by humans intent on harming them.
You can install a cat flap in the case of a uPVC door or glass window, but it's not as straightforward as putting one in a wooden door. It's because uPVC or composite doors are available in various thicknesses. This can impact the method of cutting holes, and the material you put into.
If you're installing the flap in glass doors it is recommended that you consult a glazier who specialises in this type of work to avoid costly mistakes. If you're installing the flap on an old wooden door, begin by the cat with it before you fit it to allow them to become familiar with its shape and size and explore it from every angle.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
In order to put in a cat flap that's suitable for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's height. This will help you ensure that the flap is the right height for your door or window and that it's large enough to allow them to get in and exit easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers over their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back or face, or around the limbs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline Acrobatics.
You can also use the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you require. If your cat weighs up to 5kg, for instance the suggested flap size is 14x12cm.
Make sure you measure your windows or doors
This kind of cat flap, as the name suggests is designed to be installed into a door. It allows your pet to move in and out at their convenience. They are usually made from plastic or aluminium and simply are placed in the middle of the door with the possibility of a swinging door that opens by pushing lightly on either side. These flaps are available with locking options which provide extra security so that your cat is not able to walk through the door from outside.
A window is another common location for a cat's flap, and they are simple enough to fit, although they usually need to be placed high up as it's difficult for dogs and cats to access them. If the window is too high to use a cat flap, then ramps, steps, or specially built stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it.
A cat flap could be installed into a brick wall, however it is not recommended unless experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's important to make sure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. If there are, a hole needs to be created for them and this is something that you should always seek professional advice on. Wearing protective glasses or a dust mask will allow you to avoid breathing in the sawdust that is created when cutting through your walls.
Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.
There are numerous cat flaps on the market, and all offer various features. Some flaps are equipped with security features like magnetic locks or microchip recognition which prevent unauthorised entry. They also stop your pet from letting friends or animals to enter the home. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to keep out draughts and moisture.
There's also a range of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular, while others are square or circular. The type of cat flap you pick will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the kind of door or window you're installing it to.
Last but not least, think about the opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is an option and is usually the least expensive. But, it will not prevent other cats or pets from entering and you may let draughts in too.
Once you've selected the right cat flap and measured your door or window and window, it's now time to put it in place it. Make a mark on the belly of the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is straight on the door and not too low. Utilize your spirit level to draw a sketch of the cat flap. Then, using your jigsaw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you're happy with the results sand down the edges and then drill through the pencil marks to create holes for the screws.
Make sure you have the tools ready
Like all DIY tasks, it's best to have the appropriate tools for the job. You'll need the cat flap, a pencil and tape measure as well as a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the kind of window or door.
Check with the manufacturer prior to making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal damaged. In this instance, it's likely that you will need to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.
For wooden or uPVC doors you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap using a jigsaw and follow the instructions given by the manufacturer. Use a template to mark out the size hole you'll need.
After you've cut the required hole, you'll need to smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will prevent any rust or water damage from happening in the future. It is also recommended to cover the holes in your window or door and the back of the cat flap to prevent rain and wind. After the sealant has dried, you can install your new cat-flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to come and go whenever it wants, installing a flap can help. 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.
Look at the instructions included with the cat flap. You will find a drawing of the template. This will give an idea of the location where holes need to be made for the flap on the door. Note the areas you'll have to drill using pencil.
After you've marked the area in your door and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple job, but you'll have to be comfortable using the saw. If you are concerned about doing this yourself, there are many companies that can complete this for you at a low cost.
Then, go source can screw the inside part of the door to the hole in your door. It might be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this in order to ensure it is waterproof and weatherproof. The outer part of your cat flap may be placed on the bolts on top, and then tacked together. You must test the cat flap on your cat to confirm that it's working properly and allows the cat to go in and out easily.