Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap inside your home can be a huge step for any pet owner. There are a variety of options for you, whether your cat is getting older and needs extra security, or you have kittens that require to be examined.
It can be intimidating for people who aren't experts in installing an animal flap, but with proper guidelines, it's easy. Planning, preparation and precision are the keys.
Select the Right Door, or Windows
There are many different types of cat flaps, including some with locks that can be used to keep your pet from leaving or inside, and others that have high tech features like microchip door entry system. It is important to consider how it is easy to teach your cat to use the flap before you purchase and install one.
Depending on the style of your home, it's generally best to put the cat flap in the form of a door or window that opens out into an area of protection in the garden, so that your cat can feel safe when entering and leaving the home. If possible it will also provide them a way back case they are pursued by a different cat or by humans intent to harm them.
You can put the cat flap on the form of a uPVC door or a glass window, but it's not as straightforward as fitting one into wooden doors. This is because uPVC or composite doors come in different thicknesses. This can impact the method of cutting holes, and what you fix into.
To avoid costly errors to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended that you consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If you are fitting the flap into the door made of wood, you should introduce your cat to it first so that it can become familiar with its size and shape.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
In order to put in a cat flap that's a good fit for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat's height. This will allow you to ensure that the cat flap is at the right height on the door or window, and that it is large enough to allow him to enter and exit easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Feel for any squishy fat pads that may be visible around their lower back, face or limbs. The padding provides your pet safety and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the acrobatics cats are famous for.
You can also take into account the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you need. If your cat is at or over 5kg for instance, a 14 x 12cm flap for the cat is advised.
Take cat flap installation in glass doors near me of your door or window
This kind of cat flap, as its name suggests is designed to be affixed to a door. It allows your pet to move in and out at their convenience. They are typically made of plastic or aluminium and simply rest in the middle of the door with a two-way swinging door that opens by pushing lightly on either side. These flaps are available in locking versions which provide extra security so your cat cannot simply walk through the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also commonly used on windows. They can be easily installed, but they need to be set at an elevated level since cats and dogs have a difficult time to access them. If the window is not high enough to use 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 install the cat flap onto brick walls, however it is not recommended for people who aren't experienced in the masonry industry. This could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it's essential to ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. If they are, an opening must be created for them and this is something you should always seek expert advice on. Wearing protective glasses or a dust mask can help you avoid inhaling the sawdust created when cutting into your walls.
Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.
There are many different cat flaps on the market and all of them offer different features. Certain cat flaps come with security features like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry. They also stop your pet from letting guests or another animal into the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to keep out the elements of moisture and draughts.
There's also a variety of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, while others are circular or square. Selecting the best cat flap will be dictated by the space you have available as well as the type of window or door you intend to install it on.
The last thing to do is think about the opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. A simple aluminium or plastic swing-out door is one option and is usually the least expensive. It won't prevent other pets and cats from entering the room, and you could be letting in drafts.
Once you've selected the right cat flap and measured your door or window then it's time to install it. Begin by marking the belly height on the door using your ruler. Make use of a spirit-level to ensure that the line is not too low and is straight on the door. Utilize your spirit level to draw a sketch of the flap for cats. Then, using your jigsaw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you're happy with the result, sand the edges and then drill through the pencil lines to make holes for 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 need the cat flap as well as tape measure and pencil along with a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the kind of window or door.
If you're installing in a composite door, it is recommended to consult with the manufacturer before making any changes, as this may invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this instance, it's likely that you'll have to replace the glass with a brand new piece of toughened glass.
For wooden or uPVC doors, you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap using the Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines provided by the manufacturer. If you can, use an example to identify the size of hole you'll have to cut.
After you've made the hole, you must smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will prevent any water damage or rust from happening in the future. In the end, you must apply any sealant that is needed to the rear of the cat flap as well as to the holes in the door or window to block the elements of wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry then you can put up your cat flap!
Install the Flap
Fitting a flap will allow your cat to come and go whenever it pleases. This is a simple process that most people can complete on their own, but you may require the assistance of an expert if you're installing the flap in a glass door or other type of uPVC door.
Take a look at the instructions that came with your cat flap. You will find a template drawing. This will give you an idea of where the holes for the flap need to be made in the door. Mark the areas you'll need to drill into with pencil.
After you have mapped out the door's opening and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a relatively easy job, but you'll require a good understanding of the saw. If you are concerned about doing it yourself, there are plenty of companies that can do this for you at a low cost.
Then, you can screw the inside part to the hole of your door. You may have to seal it prior to doing this to ensure it remains weather-proof and water resistant. The outside of your cat flap can be placed on the bolts' tops and then securing them. You should test the flap on your cat to make sure that it functions properly and allows the cat to go in and out easily.