Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is a great step for any pet owner. If your cat is old and requires extra security, or you have a new kitten who require a vet check there are a lot of options there for you.
Installing a cat flap may be intimidating for people who aren't professionals, however, with the proper instructions, it's not hard to accomplish. The key is preparation, planning and accuracy.
Select the Right Door or Window
There are a variety of cat flaps available including some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from going out or coming in) and others with high-tech features like microchip door entry systems. It is important to consider how it is easy to teach your cat to use the flap before you buy and install one.
Based on the style of your home, it's generally best to situate the cat flap in a window or door that opens to a sheltered area of the garden so your cat can feel safe when going into and out of the house. If you can this will also allow them a route back in should they be chased by another cat or by humans intent to hurt them.
You can install the cat flap on a uPVC door or glass window however, it's not as straightforward as fitting one into wooden doors. This is because uPVC and composite doors come in various thicknesses, which can affect the way holes are cut and what you're fixing into.
If you're installing the flap inside a glass door it is recommended that you consult a glazier who specialises in this kind of work to avoid costly errors. If you're installing the flap onto an existing wooden door it is recommended that you introduce your cat first to ensure that it becomes familiar with its dimensions and shape.
Find out the size of your cat's belly
In order to put in a cat flap that's suitable for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat. This will help you ensure that the cat flap is placed at the right height for the door or window, and that it's big enough for him to enter and out 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, face or legs. The padding gives your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics felines are known for.
Alternately, you could make use of your pet's weight to gauge how big an opening you need. If your cat weighs more than 5kg, for instance the suggested cat flap size is 14 x 12cm.
Take a measurement of your door or window
Like the name suggests, this type of cat flap is designed to be affixed to the door, and offers the pet with a way to leave or enter as it pleases. These flaps are made of plastic or aluminum and are placed in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that is opened by lightly pushing on either side. They are available with locking options which provide extra security so that your cat is not able to traverse the door from outside.
A window is a common location for a cat flap and these are easy enough to install, though they are usually located high enough as it's difficult for dogs and cats to access them. If the window is too high for a cat flap, then ramps, steps or specially built stairs can be utilized to help the animal access it.
It is possible to install the cat flap onto brick walls, however it is not recommended for those who aren't familiar with brickwork. This could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's important to ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. You should always consult an expert when you need to cut a hole in the wall for pipes and cables. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask can ensure that you don't breathe in the sawdust that is created when cutting through your walls.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are a variety of cat flaps that are available on the market, and have various features. Some flaps are equipped with security features, such as microchip recognition or magnetic locks which prevent unauthorised entry. They also prevent your pet from letting guests or animals to enter the house. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to block out draughts and moisture.
There are also different sizes that are available based on the breed and size of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, whereas others are circular or square. Selecting the best cat flap will be dictated by the space available as well as the type of door or window you want to attach it to.
The last thing to do is consider the type of opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is one choice and is typically the cheapest. It won't prevent other animals and cats from entering the room, and you could let in draughts.
It's time to install your cat flap. Mark the belly height of the door using your ruler. Use a spirit-level to ensure that the line is not too low and is in line with the door. Use your spirit level to draw a sketch of the cat flap. Next, use your jigsaw to cut out the outline in the door. Once you're happy with the result, sand 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 available when undertaking any DIY project. The main things you'll need are the cat flap itself as well as a tape measure, an excellent pencil as well as a spirit level, drill, file and an jigsaw (depending on the window or door type).
Check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal broken. In this scenario you'll have to install a new pane of toughened glass instead.
You'll need an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines given by the manufacturer. If possible, you can use an outline to help mark out the size of hole you'll have to cut.
After you've made the hole, you'll need to smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This should prevent any rust or water damage from happening in the future. It is also recommended to seal the holes in your window or door and the side of the flap to prevent rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry then you're now ready to put in your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
Installing a flap allows your cat to move around whenever it wishes. It's a simple procedure that most people can complete themselves, although you'll likely need to hire an expert if you're installing the flap in an unglazed door or any other kind of uPVC door.
Begin by studying the instructions included with your cat flap to locate the template drawing. This will give you an idea of where holes for the flap will need to be drilled into the door. Then, mark the places in which you will have to drill using the pencil.
After you have marked the area on your door, you can use the jigsaw and cut out the design for the cat flap. This is a relatively easy job, but you'll need to be comfortable using a jigsaw. Many companies will complete this task for you at a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to do it yourself.
The next step is to screw the inner part of the flap onto the door's hole. It is possible to seal the flap before you do this in order to keep it waterproof and weatherproof. The outer part of your cat flap may be placed on the bolts' tops and then tacked together. You should test the cat flap on your cat to confirm that it is working correctly and allows them to enter and exit easily.