Fitting a Cat Flap

Getting a cat flap fitted in to your home can be a big step for any pet owner. There are numerous options to you, regardless of whether your cat is getting older and requires additional security or if you have kittens that require to be vetted.

Installing a cat flap could be daunting for non-professionals but, with the right instructions, it's not difficult to do. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the key to success.

Select the Right Door, or Windows

There are a variety of cat flaps available including some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from going out or entering) and others with advanced features such as microchips for door entry systems. It is important to think about the ease of your cat to train to use the flap prior to making a buy and install one.

It is recommended to put the cat flap, based on the design of your house, in a window that opens into an area of the garden that is protected. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering or leaving your home. If possible, this will also give them a way back case they are chased by a cat or by humans who are intent on harming them.

It is possible to install a cat flap in the case of a uPVC door or glass window, but it's not as straightforward as putting one in wooden doors. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in a variety of thicknesses. This could affect the how holes are cut and the type of door you can fix into.

If you're installing the flap inside a glass door it is recommended that you consult a glazier who specialises in such work to avoid costly errors. If you're installing the flap to the door made of wood you must introduce your cat to it first to make sure it is familiar with its dimensions and shape.

Take a look at your cat's belly measurement

In order to put in an appropriate cat flap that is a good fit for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat's size. This will ensure that the flap is at the correct height on your window or door and that it's large enough for them to enter and out easily.

To do this, place your pet on their back and run your fingers gently along their belly. Feel for any squishy fat pads - these could be visible on their lower back, face and legs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline acrobatics.

You can also take into account the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you need. If your cat weighs at or above 5kg in weight for instance that's a 14x12cm cat flap opening is advised.

Make sure you measure your door or window

This type of cat flap, as the name suggests is made to be fitted into a door. It lets your pet enter and exit at its convenience. The flaps are made of plastic or aluminum and are located in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that opens by gently pressing on either side. They are available in locking versions that offer added security, so that your cat is not able to traverse the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also often used in windows. They are able to be easily installed, however they have to be placed at an elevated level since cats and dogs have a difficult time to access them. If the window is too high for a cat flap then ramps, steps, or specially constructed stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it.

It is possible to insert a cat flap into the brick wall, however it is not recommended for those who aren't familiar with brickwork. This could cause the wall to weaken. It is important to make sure there aren't any cables or pipes in the wall prior to you start. If they are, an opening must be created for them and this is something you should always seek expert advice on. Wearing protective 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 Cat Flap that is Right for You.

There are many cat flaps available on the market, and they come with various features. Some have security options like magnetic locks or microchips that stop unauthorized entry and prevent your pet from allowing pets or friends into the house. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to keep out draughts and moisture.

There's also a variety of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are available in rectangular shapes, while others are circular or square. The type of cat flap you pick will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the kind of door or window you're fixing it to.

Last but not least, consider the type of opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. It will not stop other animals and cats from entering however, and you could be letting in drafts.

Once you have selected the appropriate cat flap and measured the window or door and window, it's now time to put it in place it. Make a mark on the belly of the door using a ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is sitting exactly on the door and not too low. Use your spirit level to draw a sketch of the flap for cats. Then, you can use your Jigsaw to cut the door's outline. When you are satisfied with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil marks to create holes for screws.

Prepare the Tools

It's important to have the right tools for performing any DIY project. You'll require the cat flap, a pencil and tape measure along with a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the kind of window or door.

If you're installing a composite door, you should consult with the manufacturer before making any changes, as this may affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this instance, it's likely that you'll need to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.

For wooden or uPVC doors will require cutting out the shape of your cat flap using a jigsaw and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. If possible, use a template to help you determine the size of hole you'll will need to cut.

After you've cut the required hole, you should then smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop any future water damage or rust. It is also recommended to cover the holes in your window or door and the back of the cat flap to keep out wind and rain. When the sealant has dried, you're ready to install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to be able to go and come as it pleases, fitting flaps can be helpful. It's a simple procedure that most people can complete by themselves, though you'll likely need to hire a professional if you are installing the flap on an unglazed door or any other type of uPVC door.

Check out the directions that came with the cat flap. You will find a drawing of the template. This will provide you with an idea of where holes for the flap have to be drilled into the door.  cat flap installation near me 'll need to drill into using pencil.

After you have marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw and cut out the shape for the cat flap. This is a relatively easy task, but you'll require a good understanding of the Jigsaw. If you're worried about doing this yourself, there are plenty of companies that can do this for you at a minimal cost.

The next step is to screw the inner part of the cat flap to the hole in your door. It might be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this in order to keep it waterproof and weatherproof. The outer part of your cat flap may be placed on the bolts on top, and then tacked together. You must 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.