Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap your home is a great option for any pet owner. If your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have a new kitten that require a thorough screening, there are plenty of options there for you.
Installing a cat flap can be a daunting task for novices, but with the right instructions, it's not hard to complete. Planning, preparation and precision are the key to success.
Choose the Right Door or Windows
There are many different types of cat flaps, some with locks that can be used to stop your pet from going out or in, while others have high tech features like microchip door entry systems. But, it's important to think about how easy your cat is to teach to use the flap prior to making a buy and install one.
Depending on the style of your house, it's generally best to situate the cat flap near 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 you can, this will also give them a route back in should they be pursued by a different cat or by a human intent on harming them.
It's possible to install a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it's not as simple as installing one into a wood door. It's because uPVC or composite doors are available in a variety of thicknesses. This can impact the how holes are cut and the type of door you can fix to.
If you're installing the flap on glass doors it is recommended that you find a glazier who is experienced in such work to avoid any costly mistakes. If cat flap installation are fitting the flap into an existing wooden door it is recommended that you introduce your cat first so that it can become familiar with its dimensions and shape.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
It is important to know the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you choose to install is a perfect fit. This will ensure that the flap is the right height for your window or door and that it's big enough to allow them to enter and out easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers over their belly. Check for any fat pads that are squishy - these may be visible around their lower back, face and legs. The padding provides your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics that felines are known for.
You can also use the weight of your pet to determine how large opening you require. If your cat weighs up to 5kg, for instance, the suggested cat flap opening size is 14 x 12cm.
Measure your door or window
This kind of cat flap, as the name suggests, is designed to be affixed to the door. It allows your pet to move in and out at their convenience. They are usually made of plastic or aluminium and simply rest in the middle of the door. They come with the possibility of a swinging door that is opened by pushing lightly on either side. The flaps are available in locking versions that offer added security, which means that your cat can't traverse the door from outside.
A window is another common location for a cat flap and these are easy enough to fit, although they are usually placed high up as it's difficult for cats and dogs to reach them otherwise. If the window is not sufficient to accommodate the flap for cats, you can use steps, ramps or specially designed stairs to assist the animal in reaching it.
Cat flaps can be incorporated to a brick wall, but this is not recommended unless familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's essential to ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. It is recommended to consult an expert if you have to make a hole for pipes and cables. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask will ensure that you don't breathe in the sawdust created when cutting through your walls.
Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.
There are many different cat flaps available and all of them offer various features. Some are equipped with security features like magnetic locks or microchip recognition to prevent unauthorized entry and also stop your pet allowing pets or friends into the home. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to keep out draughts and moisture.
There's also a range of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular while others are square or circular. The kind of cat flap you select will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the type of window or door you're installing it to.
The last thing to do is think about the opening mechanism your cat flap will use. A simple aluminum or plastic swing-out door is a good option and is usually the cheapest. But, it will not prevent other cats or pets from entering your home and you could be letting draughts in too.
Once you have selected the correct cat flap and measured the door or window, it's time to fit it. Begin by marking the height of the belly on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit-level to make sure that the line isn't too low and is in line with the door. Utilize your spirit level to draw a template for the cat flap. Then, you can use your Jigsaw to cut the door's outline. When you're satisfied with the result, sand the edges and then drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.
Make the Tools
Like all DIY tasks, it's recommended to have the appropriate tools to complete the task. You'll need the cat flap, a pencil and tape measure along with a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the type of door or window.
Contact the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a door made of composite. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to become damaged. In this scenario, you'll probably have to install an entirely new pane of toughened glass instead.
For wooden or uPVC doors you'll need to cut out the shape of your cat flap using the Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines given by the manufacturer. If possible, use an outline to help mark out the dimensions of the 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 occurring in the future. You should also cover the holes in your window or door and the back of the flap to block rain and wind. After the sealant has dried it is time to install your cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to come and go whenever it wants, installing flaps can be helpful. It's a simple procedure that most people can complete on their own, but you'll likely require the assistance of an expert if you're installing the flap on a glass door or other kind of uPVC door.
Begin by reading the instructions provided with your cat flap to find the template. This will give an idea of where the holes are to be drilled to install the flap in the door. Note the areas you'll need to drill into using pencil.
Once you have marked out the door's area then use a jigsaw cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a relatively easy task, but you'll have to be comfortable using the saw. Many companies will complete this work for you at a reasonable price if you are hesitant to tackle it yourself.
Then, screw the inner part to the hole of your door. It is possible to seal the flap prior to you do this, in order to ensure it is waterproof and weatherproof. You can then put the outer portion of the cat flap on top of the fixing bolts, and tighten them all together. It is recommended that you test the flap using your cat to ensure that it is working properly and that they are able to get in and out of it.