Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap your home is an excellent step for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have new kittens that need to be vetted There are plenty of options out there for you.
Installing a cat flap can be a daunting task for novices, but, with the right instructions, it's easy to accomplish. Planning, preparation and precision are the most important factors.
Choose the Right Door or Windows
There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to prevent your pet from going out or inside, and others that have advanced features like microchips for door entry system. It's important to think about how easy it will be to train your cat to use the flap before you buy and install one.
Depending on the design of your house, it's usually best to put the cat flap near an opening or window that opens to an area of protection in the garden, so that your cat can feel safe when going into and out of the house. This will also enable them to return inside if they are pursued by a pet or human beings who wish to harm them.
It's possible to install a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as easy as putting one in a wood door. It's because uPVC or composite doors come in different thicknesses. This could affect the how holes are cut and the type of door you can fix to.
To avoid costly mistakes to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended that you consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If you're fitting the flap to the door made of wood you must introduce your cat first to ensure that it becomes familiar with its size and shape.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
It is important to know the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you install is a good fit. This will allow you to ensure that the cat flap is placed at the right height for the window or door, and that it's big enough for him 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 or face, or around the limbs. The extra padding offers your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics felines are famous for.
Alternately, you could make use of your pet's weight to determine the size of the opening you require. If your cat is at or above 5kg in weight, for example an opening of 14 x 12cm flap for your cat is advised.
Make sure you measure your door or window
Like the name suggests the cat flap is designed to be fixed into a door and provides the pet with a way to enter or leave at any time it wishes. These flaps are constructed of plastic or aluminum and are located in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that opens by gently pushing on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps, which provide extra security, so your cat isn't able to traverse through the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also commonly used on windows. They are able to be easily installed, but they need to be installed at a high level as cats and dogs have a difficult time to access them. If the window is too high to be used as a cat flap, then ramps, steps or specially constructed stairs can be used to help the animal access it.
It is possible to put the cat flap onto the brick wall, however it is not recommended for those who aren't experienced in the masonry industry. This could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it is important to ensure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. If there are, there must be a hole made for them. This is something that you should always seek expert advice on. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask will help you avoid inhaling the sawdust created when cutting through your walls.
Choose the right cat flap
There are many different cat flaps on the market and they all have various features. Some are equipped with security features like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that stop unauthorized entry and prevent your pet from allowing friends or other animals into the home. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to keep out the elements of moisture and draughts.
There are also different sizes to choose from based on the size and breed of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, while others are square or circular. The type of cat flap you select will depend on the size of the opening and the type of window or door you're fitting it to.
Lastly consider cat flap cover for winter to open your cat flap will come with. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is a good alternative and is usually the least expensive. It won't prevent other pets and cats from entering, and you could also be letting in draughts.
It's time to install your cat flap. Start by marking the height of the belly on the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is exactly on the door and not too low. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, you can use your Jigsaw to cut the outline of the door. Once you're happy with the result, sand the edges and then drill through the pencil marks to create holes for the screws.
Make the Tools
It's essential to have the right tools when doing any DIY project. The most essential things you'll need are the cat flap along with a tape measure, a good pencil as well as a spirit level, a file, drill and the jigsaw (depending on your window or door type).
If you're installing a composite door, it is recommended to check with the manufacturer prior to making any alterations since this could affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this instance you'll likely need to fit an additional pane of toughened glass instead.
For wooden or uPVC doors will require cutting out the design of your cat flap using a Jigsaw. Follow the directions given by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to determine the size of hole you'll need.
After you've made the hole, you will need to sand the edges of the opening. This will prevent any water damage or rust from occurring in the future. It is also recommended to cover the holes in your door or window and the back of the flap to block rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry, you can install your cat flap!
Install the Flap
The installation of a flap will allow your cat to move around whenever it wishes. The majority of people can install the flap by themselves. However should you wish to install it on the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you might need an expert.
Look at the instructions that came with the cat flap. There is a template drawing. This will give you an idea of where holes for the flap need to be drilled into the door. Then, mark the areas that you'll need to drill with the pencil.
After you have marked the area on your door, you can use the jigsaw and cut out the the cat flap. It is a relatively simple task, but you'll have to be comfortable using the saw. Many companies will do this for you for a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to tackle it yourself.
Next, you will need to screw the inner part of the cat flap to the door's hole. It may be necessary to seal the flap before you do this in order to ensure it is weatherproof and watertight. The outside of your cat flap can be placed on the bolts on top, and then securing them. It is recommended to test the flap with your cat to make sure that it functions properly and that they are able to get in and out of it.