Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap your home is a fantastic option for any pet owner. There are numerous options for you, whether your cat is older and needs extra security or you have kittens that need to be checked.
Installing a cat flap may be daunting for non-professionals however, with the proper instructions, it's easy to do. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and accuracy.
Select the Right Door or Window
There are a variety of cat flaps that are available, some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet going out or coming in) and others with advanced features such as microchip door entry systems. But, it's important to consider the ease of your cat to train to use the flap before you buy and install one.
It's best to place the cat flap, depending on the style of your home, in a window that opens into a garden that is sheltered. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering and leaving your home. This will also enable them to get back inside if they are pursued by a pet or human who wants to harm them.
You can install a cat flap in 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 due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors are available in a variety of thicknesses, and this can impact how holes are cut and the materials you're fixing them into.
If you're installing the flap on a glass door, it's recommended that you consult a glazier who specialises in this type of work to avoid any costly mistakes. If you're fitting the flap in an old wooden door, begin by the cat with it prior to fitting it, so that they get used to its shape and size, and explore it from every angle.
Find out the size of your cat's belly
You'll need the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap you choose to install is a good fit. This will help you make sure that the flap is at the right height on the window or door, and also that it's large enough to allow him to enter and leave easily.
To do this, place your pet on their back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Feel for any squishy fat pads that might be visible around their lower back, face or legs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline circus skills.
You can also take into account the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you need. If your cat weighs up to 5kg, for instance the suggested cat flap opening size is 14 x 12cm.
Measure Your Door or Window
This kind of cat flap, as the name suggests is designed to be installed into a door. It lets your pet move in and out at their convenience. The flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that can be opened by lightly pushing on either side. There are locks on some of these flaps, which provide additional security to ensure that your cat can't simply traverse through the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also commonly used in windows. They can be easily installed, however they have to be placed at a high level as cats and dogs find it difficult to reach them. If the window is too high for a cat flap, ramps, steps or specially constructed stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it.
It is possible to put the cat flap onto brick walls, however it is not recommended for people who aren't familiar with brickwork. This could cause the wall to weaken. It is essential to ensure that there are no cables and pipes within the wall before you start. It is recommended to consult an expert when you need to make a hole for pipes or cables. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask can allow you to avoid breathing in the dust that is generated when cutting into your walls.
Choose the right cat flap
There are many cat flaps available on the market, and they have different features. Some are equipped with security features such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that stop unauthorized entry and restrict your pet from letting guests or other animals to enter the home. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals that keep out water and drafts.
There are different sizes to choose from based on the breed and size of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are square or circular. The type of cat flap you choose will depend on the size of the opening and the type of window or door you're fitting it to.
Lastly, think about the opening mechanism that your cat flap will come with. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. However, it won't stop other pets or cats from gaining access and you could let draughts in as well.
Once you've selected the correct cat flap and measured the windows or doors and window, it's now time to put it in place it. Determine the belly height of the door using your 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 reference. Next, use your Jigsaw to cut the door's outline. When you're satisfied with the result, sand the edges and then drill through the pencil lines to create holes for the screws.
Make sure you have the tools ready
It is essential to have the right tools when doing any DIY project. You'll need a cat flap as well as an eraser and tape measure as well as a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the type of door or window.
Contact the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a door made of composite. cat flap cost could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to be broken. In this case, it's likely that you'll have to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.
For wooden or uPVC doors you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap using the Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines provided by the manufacturer. If possible, you can use a template to help you mark out the size of hole you'll will need to cut.
After you've cut the hole, you'll have to sand the edges of the opening. This should prevent any rust or water damage from happening in the near future. In the end, you must apply any sealant that is needed to the rear of the cat flap, and to the holes in the door or window to keep out the elements of wind and rain. After the sealant has dried, you're ready to install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
Installing a flap allows your cat to come and go whenever it wants. This is a simple process that most people can complete themselves, although you'll likely require the assistance of an expert if you're installing the flap in the form of a glass door or another type of uPVC door.
Start by looking at the instructions included with your cat flap to find the template drawing. This will give an idea of the location where holes need to be drilled to install the flap in the door. Then, mark the areas that you'll need to drill with pencil.
After you have mapped out 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 be comfortable with the Jigsaw. Numerous companies will perform this task for you at a reasonable cost if you are hesitant to do it yourself.
Then, you can screw the inside part to the hole in your door. It may be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this, in order to keep it waterproof and weatherproof. The outer section of your cat flap could be placed on the bolts' tops and then tightened together. It is recommended that you test the flap using your cat to make sure that it functions properly and that they can move easily through it.