Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap into your home could be a huge step for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and requires additional security, or you have kittens that require a thorough screening, there are a lot of options there to choose from.
It can be difficult for non-professionals to install a cat flap, but with the proper instructions, it's simple. Preparation, planning and precision are the keys.
Select the Right Door or Window
There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to prevent your pet from leaving or in, while others have modern features such as microchips or a door entry systems. It is important to consider how easy your cat is to train to use the flap before you purchase and install one.
It is best to place the cat flap, depending on the design of your home, in an opening that leads into a garden that is sheltered. This will help your cat feel secure when entering or leaving your home. This will also allow them to get back inside in the event of being chased by other animals or human who wants to hurt them.
You can put an egress flap inside the form of a uPVC door or a glass window however it's not as simple as fitting one into a wooden door. This is because uPVC and composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses, which affect how holes are cut and the materials you're fixing them into.
If you're installing the flap inside a glass door it is recommended that you find a glazier who is experienced in this type of work to avoid any costly mistakes. If you're fitting the flap in the door made of wood, start by the cat with it prior to fitting it to allow them to be familiar with its shape and size and explore it from all angles.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
To install a cat flap that's suitable for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's size. This will ensure that the flap is at the right height on your door or window, and that it's wide enough to allow them to get in and exit easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Look for a fat pad that is squishy 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, particularly when performing the many acrobatics felines are known for.
You can also take into account the weight of your pet to determine how large opening you require. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg, for example the suggested cat 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 designed to be affixed to a door. It allows your pet to enter and exit at its convenience. These flaps are constructed of plastic or aluminum and are located in the middle of the door. They have a two-way swinging opening that is opened by lightly pushing on either side. The flaps are available in locking versions that provide additional security so that your cat is not able to walk through the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also often employed in windows. They are able to be easily installed, however they have to be set at an elevated level since cats and dogs have a difficult time to access them. If the window is too high to be used as a cat flap then steps, ramps or purpose built stairs can be utilized to aid the animal in accessing it.
window with cat flap Repair My Windows And Doors is possible to put a cat flap into a brickwall, but it is not recommended for those who aren't experienced in masonry. This could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it is important to ensure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. If there are, an opening must be made for them. This is something that you should always seek professional advice on. It is also recommended to wear protective goggles and a dust protection mask to avoid breathing in any of the sawdust created by cutting into your home's walls.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are numerous cat flaps available on the market, and they come with various features. Certain cat flaps come with security features such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition which prevent unauthorised entry. They also stop your pet from letting friends or animals to enter the home. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to keep out the elements of moisture and draughts.
There are various sizes that are available based on the size and breed of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, whereas others are square or circular. The kind of cat flap you pick will depend on the size of the opening and the kind of door or window you're fixing it to.
Last but not least, think about the opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. A simple aluminum or plastic swing-out door is one option and is usually the cheapest. But, it will not keep other animals or cats from entering and you may let draughts through too.
Once you have selected the correct cat flap and measured your windows or doors then it's time to install it. Determine the belly height of the door using a ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line isn't too low and is straight on the door. Create a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Next, use your jigsaw to cut out the outline in the door. When you're satisfied with the results sand down the edges and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for the screws.
Make sure you have the tools ready
It's important to have the right tools when performing any DIY project. The main things you'll need are the cat flap as well as a tape measure, an excellent pencil and a spirit level drill, file and an Jigsaw (depending on the window or door type).
Consult the manufacturer before making any changes to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal to be broken. In this instance it's likely you'll need to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass.
You'll need to use an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to determine the size of hole you require.
After you have cut the hole, you'll have to sand the edges of the opening. This will stop 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 back of the flap to block wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry, you can install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
Fitting a flap will allow your cat to move around whenever it wishes. It's a simple procedure that most people can accomplish by themselves, though you may require the help of an expert for installing the flap in a glass door or other kind of uPVC door.
Begin by studying the instructions that come with the flap to locate the template drawing. This will give you an idea of the location where the holes will be drilled for the flap on the door. Then, mark the areas that you'll need to drill with a pencil.
After you've marked the door's area then use a jigsaw cut out the design of the cat flap. It's a relatively easy job however, you'll need to be comfortable with a Jigsaw. If you're worried about doing this yourself, there are plenty of businesses that can handle this for you at a low cost.
The next step is to attach the inside of the cat flap to the door's hole. You may need to seal it prior to making this move to ensure it remains weather-proof and water resistant. You can then place the outer portion of the cat flap on top of the fixing bolts and then tighten them all. You must test the cat flap on your cat to confirm that it functions properly and that it allows them to exit and enter easily.