Fitting A Cat Flap

Getting a cat flaps for french doors flap fitted in to your home can be a big step for any pet owner. There are many options available to you, regardless of whether your cat is old and needs extra security or you have kittens that need to be vetted.

Installing a cat flap could be daunting for non-professionals however, with the proper instructions, it's not hard to do. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and accuracy.

Select the Right Door or Windows

There are a variety of cat flaps to choose from including 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. It's important to think about how easy it will be to teach your cat to use the flap before you purchase and install one.

Depending on the style of your home, it's generally best to place the cat flap near the form of a door or window that opens onto an area that is protected from the garden so that your cat can feel safe when entering and leaving the home. If possible it will also provide them a way back should they get chased by a cat or by humans intent to harm them.

You can install an egress flap inside the case of a uPVC door or glass window, but it's not as easy as putting one in a wooden door. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in different thicknesses. This could affect the how holes are cut and the type of door you can fix into.

If you're installing the flap in a glass door it is recommended to find a glazier who is experienced in this type of work to avoid any costly errors. If you're fitting the flap on the door made of wood, start by the cat with it before you fit it so that they can become familiar with its size and shape and explore it from all angles.

Find out the size of your cat's belly

In order to put in a cat flap installers flap that's the right size for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's height. This will enable you to ensure that your cat flap is placed at the right height on the door or window, and that it is large enough for him to get in and out easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Feel for any fat pads that are squishy - these might be visible around their lower back, Cat Flap face or the limbs. The padding provides your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics felines are famous for.

Alternately, you could use your pet's weight to gauge how big an opening you require. If your cat weighs at or above 5kg in weight for instance that's a 14x12cm flap for your cat is recommended.

Take a measurement of your door or window cat flap

Like the name suggests the cat flap is made to be attached to the door, and offers a way for your pet to leave or enter as it pleases. They are typically made of aluminum or plastic and rest in the middle of the door with a two-way swinging door that opens by pushing lightly on either side. The flaps are available with locking options which provide extra security which means that your cat can't enter the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also commonly used on windows. They are able to 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 isn't sufficient in height to be used as a cat's flap, you can opt for steps, ramps or stairs that are specially designed to help the animal reach it.

Cat flaps can be installed into a brick wall but this is not recommended unless you are skilled in masonry work as it could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it's important to make sure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. If there are, then a hole needs to be created for them and this is something that you should always seek expert advice on. It is also recommended to wear safety goggles and a dust mask to prevent inhaling any sawdust generated by cutting through the walls of your house.

Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.

There are a variety of cat flaps available and all of them offer different features. Some come with security options like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by unauthorized persons and stop your pet allowing pets or friends into the house. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to keep out draughts and moisture.

There are different sizes that are available based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular while others are square or circular. The type of cat flap you choose will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the kind of door or window you're fitting it to.

Also, think about the mechanism for opening your cat flap is likely to have. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It won't prevent other cats and pets from entering the room, and you could let in draughts.

Once you've selected the correct cat flap and measured your windows or doors, it's time to fit it. Begin by marking the height of the belly on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is exactly on the door and not too low. Create a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, using the jigsaw, cut out the outline of 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 the Tools

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

Contact the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a door made of composite. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to become damaged. In this instance it's likely that you'll need to replace the glass with a brand new piece of toughened glass.

You'll require the jigsaw to cut your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines provided by the manufacture. If you can, use a template to help you identify the dimensions of the hole you need to cut.

After you've cut the hole, you'll have to sand off the edges of the opening. This will stop any rust or water damage from happening in the near future. It is also recommended to seal the holes in your window or door and the side of the flap to keep out rain and wind. After the sealant has dried then you're now ready to put in your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

The installation of a flap will allow your cat to move around whenever it pleases. The majority of people can install the flap by themselves. However when you plan to put it in glass or uPVC type door, you may require a professional.

Look at the instructions that came with your cat flap. You will find an illustration of the template. This will give an idea of the location where the holes are to be made for the flap in the door. Mark the areas you'll have to drill using the pencil.

After you have mapped out the door's area and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task however, you'll need to be comfortable with a Jigsaw. Numerous companies will perform this work for you at a reasonable price if you are hesitant to take on the task yourself.

Then, attach the outer part of the door to the hole in your door. It is possible to seal the flap prior to you do this in order to ensure it is waterproof and weatherproof. The outside of your cat flap can be placed on the bolts' tops and then securing them. You should test the cat flap on your cat to confirm that it's working properly and that it allows them to exit and enter easily.