Fitting A Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in your home is an excellent option for any pet owner. There are a variety of options for you, whether your cat is older and requires additional security or if you have kittens that need to be examined.

It can be a bit daunting for those who aren't professionals to put in an animal flap, but with the proper instructions, it's simple. Preparation, planning and precision are the most important factors.

Select the Right Door or Windows

There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, some with locks that can be used to prevent your pet from getting out or inside, and others that have advanced features like microchips for door entry system. It is important to think about how it is easy to teach your cat how to use the flap before you purchase and install one.

Depending on the design of your home It is recommended to put the cat flap in the form of a door or window that opens onto an area that is protected from the garden, so that your cat is secure when going into and out of the house. If possible, this will also give them a way back should they be chased by a cat or by humans intent to harm them.

It's possible to put a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it's not the same as fitting A cat flap one into a wood door. This is because uPVC or composite doors come in different thicknesses. This can impact the how holes are cut and the type of door you can fix into.

To avoid costly mistakes It is recommended that you consult a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If you're installing the flap to a wooden door it is recommended that you introduce your cat to it first so that it can become familiar with its size and shape.

Find out the size of your cat's belly

In order to install the right cat flap that's suitable for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat. This will enable you to make sure that the flap is at the right height on the door or window, and that it is large enough to allow him to enter and exit easily.

To do this, lay your pet on their back and run your fingers gently across their belly. Feel for any fat pads that are squishy which may be visible around their lower back, face, and limbs. The padding provides your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics felines are famous for.

You can also take into account the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you need. If your cat weighs 5Kg, for example the suggested flap size is 14x12cm.

Make sure you measure your windows or doors

This type of cat flap, as the name suggests, is made to be fitted into a door. It allows your pet to enter and exit at its convenience. These flaps are constructed of aluminum or plastic and are located in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that opens by lightly pushing on either side. These flaps are available with locking options that offer added security, so your cat cannot simply walk through the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also often used on windows. They are easy to be installed, but they have to be installed at a high level as cats and dogs have a difficult time to access them. If the window is too high for a cat flap installer flap, steps, ramps or purpose built stairs can be utilized to assist the animal get access to it.

A cat flap can be incorporated into a brick wall but it is not recommended unless experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the structure of the wall. It's important to check that there aren't any cables and pipes inside the wall before you begin. If they are, there must be a hole made for them. This is something you should always seek professional advice on. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask will ensure that you don't breathe in the sawdust created when cutting into your walls.

Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.

There are numerous cat flap installation in glass doors near me flaps that are available on the market, and all offer different features. Some come with security options such as magnetic locks or microchips that block entry by unauthorized persons and prevent your pet from allowing friends or other animals into the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals that keep out water and drafts.

There is also a choice of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are circular or square. Selecting the best cat flap will be determined by the space you have available as well as the type of window or Fitting a cat flap door you intend to install it on.

Also, think about the mechanism to open your cat flap will have. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is a good alternative and is usually the least expensive. However, it won't prevent other cats or pets from entering your home and you could let draughts through too.

After you've chosen the appropriate cat flap and measured your windows or doors then it's time to install it. Mark the belly height of the door using a ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is sitting straight 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. Once you are satisfied with the result finish sanding the edges and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.

Make sure you have the tools ready

Like any DIY jobs, it's always recommended to have the proper tools to complete the task. The main things you'll need are the cat flap, a tape measure and an excellent pencil and a spirit level a file, drill and the jigsaw (depending on the door or window type).

Check with the manufacturer prior to making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal damaged. In this scenario you'll likely have to install an entirely new pane of toughened glass instead.

You'll need to use an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions given by the manufacturer. If possible, use a template to help you identify the size of the hole you need to cut.

After you've cut the required hole, you'll need to sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will prevent the possibility of water damage and rust. You should also seal the holes in your door or window and the side of the flap to keep out wind and rain. When 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 flap installers near me to move around whenever it wants. This is a straightforward process that most people can complete on their own, but you will likely require the assistance of an expert for installing the flap on an unglazed door or any other kind of uPVC door.

Begin by reading the instructions that come with your cat flap to locate the drawing template. This will give you an idea of the location where the holes will be drilled to install the flap on the door. Then, mark the areas that you'll have to drill using the pencil.

After you have mapped out the door's area, use a jigsaw to cut out the design of the cat flap. It's a relatively easy job however, you'll need to be comfortable using the Jigsaw. If you are worried about doing it yourself, there are many companies that can complete this for you at a very low cost.

Then, screw the inner part to the hole of your door. You may need to seal it prior to doing this to ensure that it remains weather-proof and water resistant. You can then place the outer part of the cat flap on the top of the fixing bolts, and tighten them all. You must test the cat flap on your cat to confirm that it is working correctly and allows them to exit and enter easily.