Fitting a Cat Flap

Getting a cat flap fitted inside your home can be a big step for any pet owner. There are many options available for you, whether your cat is old and needs extra security or you have kittens that need to be checked.
Installing a cat flap could be daunting for non-professionals however, with the proper instructions, it's not hard to do. The most important thing is planning, preparation and precision.
Choose the Right Door or Window
There are a variety of cat flaps that are available, some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from leaving or entering) and others with high-tech features such as microchip door entry systems. It is important to think about how easy it will be to train your cat to use the flap, before you buy and install one.
Based on the style of your house, it's usually best to put the cat flap near an opening or window that opens out into a sheltered area of the garden, so that your cat is secure when entering and leaving the home. If you can this will also allow them a route back in should they get pursued by a different cat or by humans who are intent to hurt them.
It's possible to put a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't the same as fitting one on a wooden door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors come in different thicknesses, which affect the way holes are cut as well as the material you're fixing it into.
To avoid costly errors to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended to consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a door with a glass front. If you're fitting the flap in the door made of wood, start by introducing your cat to it before you fit it so that they can become familiar with its shape and size and explore it from every angle.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
It is important to know the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap you put in is a perfect fit. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is the right height on your window or door and that it's wide enough to allow them to get in and exit with ease.
Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers along their belly. Check for any squishy fat pads which might be visible around their lower back, face, and limbs. The extra padding offers your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics felines are famous for.
Alternatively, you can also consider your pet's weight as a way to gauge how big an opening you'll need. If your cat weighs 5kg, for instance the suggested flap opening size is 14x12cm.
Make sure cat flap fitters measure your door or window
This type of cat flap, as the name suggests is designed to be installed into a door. It allows your pet to enter and exit at its convenience. These flaps are constructed of aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that can be opened by gently pushing on either side. The flaps are available in locking versions that offer added security, so that your cat is not able to traverse the door from outside.
A window is another popular location for a cat flap, and they are simple enough to fit, although they usually need to be placed high up as it's difficult for cats and dogs to access them. If the window isn't sufficient to accommodate a cat's flap, you can make use of ramps, steps, or stairs that are specially designed to aid the animal in getting to it.
It is possible to install an egress into brick walls, however it is not recommended for people who aren't familiar with the masonry industry. This could weaken the wall's structure. It's important to check that there aren't any cables or pipes within the wall before you begin. Always consult an expert when you need to create a hole for cables and pipes. It is also recommended to wear safety goggles and a dust-proof mask to avoid breathing in any sawdust that is created by cutting into your home's walls.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are numerous cat flaps available on the market, and come with different features. Some flaps are equipped with security features like magnetic locks or microchips that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also stop your pet from allowing friends or animals to enter the house. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to keep out the elements and keep out drafts.
There are different sizes available depending on the breed and size of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular, while others are circular or square. The type of cat flap you choose will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the kind of door or window you're installing it to.
Also, think about the mechanism to open your cat flap will come with. A simple aluminium or plastic swing-out door is one option and is usually the cheapest. However, it will not keep other animals or cats from entering your home and you could let draughts in as well.
After you've chosen the right cat flap and measured the window or door then it's time to install it. Determine the belly height of the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is sitting straight on the door and not too low. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, using a Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. When you're satisfied with the result, sand the edges and then drill through the pencil marks to create holes for the screws.
Make the Tools
Like all DIY tasks, it's recommended to have the proper tools for the job. You'll require the cat flap along with an eraser and tape measure as well as a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the kind of door or window.
If you're installing a composite door, it is recommended to consult with the manufacturer prior to making any changes because this could 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.
You'll require a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions provided by the manufacture. Use a template if possible to determine the size of hole you need.
After you have cut the hole, you'll have to sand off the edges of the opening. This will stop any water damage or rust from happening in the future. You should also seal the holes in your door or window and the side of the flap to block wind and rain. After the sealant has dried, you can install your cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to come and go at will, installing flaps can be helpful. It's a simple procedure that most people can do themselves, although you may require the help of an expert for installing the flap on a glass door or other type of uPVC door.
Take a look at the instructions that came with the cat flap. There is a drawing of the template. This will provide you with an idea of where holes for the flap need to be made in the door. Note the areas you'll need to drill in with the pencil.
After you have marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw to cut the shape for the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task however, you'll need to be comfortable with a jigsaw. Many companies will complete this task for you for a reasonable price If you're not sure how to tackle it yourself.
The next step is to attach the inside of the flap onto the hole in your door. It might be necessary to seal the flap before you do this to ensure it is waterproof and weatherproof. You can then put the outer part of the cat flap on the top of the fixing bolts and then tighten them all. You should 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.