Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in to your home can be a major step for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and needs extra security or you have a new kitten that need to be vetted, there are plenty of options there to choose from.
Installing a cat flap could be daunting for non-professionals but with the right instructions, it's not hard to accomplish. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the keys.
Select the Right Door or Window
There are a variety of cat flaps to choose from including some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from leaving or entering) and others that have high-tech features such as microchip door entry systems. It is important to think about how it is easy to teach your cat how to use the flap, before you buy and install one.
Based on the style of your house It is recommended to situate the cat flap in a window or door that opens to an area of protection in the garden so that your cat will feel secure going into and out of the house. This will also allow them to return inside if they are chased by another animal or human who wants to harm them.
It's possible to put a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it's not as simple as installing one into a wood door. This is because uPVC or composite doors come in various thicknesses. This could affect the method of cutting holes, and what you fix to.
To avoid costly errors to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended that you consult an expert glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If you're installing the flap to an existing wooden door it is recommended that you introduce your cat to it first to make sure it is familiar with its dimensions and shape.
Find out the size of your cat's belly
It is important to know the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap you install is a good fit. This will 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 out easily.
To do this, put your pet on their back and gently rub your fingers along their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back and face, as well as the legs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline acrobatics.
You can also make use of your pet's weight to determine the size of an opening you'll need. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg, for example the suggested flap opening size is 14 x 12cm.
Take a measurement of your door or window
This kind of cat flap, as the name suggests is made to be fitted into the door. It lets your pet be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. They are usually made from aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door. They come with a two-way swinging door that is opened by pushing lightly on either side. They are available with locking options that provide additional security so that your cat is not able to traverse the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also frequently used on windows. They are able to be easily installed, but they have to be set at an elevated level since cats and dogs find it difficult to access them. If the window is not sufficient in height to be used as the flap for cats, you can use ramps, steps, or specially designed stairs to assist the animal in reaching it.
Cat flaps can also be fitted into a brick wall but it is not recommended unless you're skilled in masonry work as it could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it is important to make sure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. If there are, then an opening must be created for them and this is something that you should always seek expert advice on. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask will allow you to avoid breathing in the dust that is generated when you cut into your walls.
Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.
There are numerous cat flaps on the market, and come with different features. Some are equipped with security features like magnetic locks or microchips that stop unauthorized entry and stop your pet allowing friends or other animals into the house. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to keep out the elements and keep out drafts.
There's also a variety of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular, while others are square or circular. The best type of cat flap will be dictated by the space you have available and the kind of window or door you intend to install it on.
Last but not least, take into consideration the kind of opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. However, it won't prevent other cats or pets from entering and you may be letting draughts in as well.
It's time to put in your cat flap. Begin by marking the height of the belly on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure 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, you can use your saw to cut out the outline in the door. Once you are satisfied with the result finish sanding the edges and drill through the pencil markings to create holes for screws.
Prepare the Tools
It's important to have the right tools available when undertaking any DIY project. You'll require the cat flap, an eraser and tape measure, a spirit-level, a drill and a jigsaw depending on the kind of window or door.
If you're installing a composite door, you should consult with the manufacturer prior to making any changes, because this could invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this case, it's likely that you will need to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.
You'll need to use an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions provided by the manufacture. Make use of a template to mark out the size hole you require.
After you've made the hole, you'll need to smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This should prevent any water damage or rust from occurring in the future. It is also recommended to seal the holes in your window or door and the side of the flap to block rain and wind. When the sealant has dried and dry, you can install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
Installing a flap allows your cat to go and come whenever it wants. The majority of people can install the flap by themselves. However should you wish to install it on a glass or uPVC type door, you may need a professional.
Begin by studying the instructions included with the flap to locate the template drawing. This will give you an idea of the location where the holes are to be drilled for the flap in the door. Then, mark the places where you need to drill with pencil.
After you have marked the area on your door, you can use the jigsaw and cut out the shape for the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task, but you'll need to be comfortable with the Jigsaw. If you are concerned about doing this yourself, there are plenty of companies that can do this for you at a minimal cost.
Next, you will need to attach the interior part of the flap onto the hole in your door. It is possible to seal the flap prior to you do this to keep it waterproof and weatherproof. replacement upvc door panels with cat flap of your cat flap can be placed on the bolts' tops and then securing them. It is recommended to test the flap using your cat to ensure that it functions properly and that they are able to enter and leave easily through it.