Fitting A Cat Flap

Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is an excellent step for any pet owner. If your cat is old and needs extra security or you have kittens that need to be vetted there are plenty of options out there for you.

Installing a cat flap bifold doors flap may be a daunting task for novices, but with the right instructions, it's not hard to accomplish. The most important thing is planning, preparation and accuracy.

Select the Right Door, or Windows

There's a wide selection of cat flaps to choose from including some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet going out or entering) and others that have high-tech features like microchip door entry systems. But, it's important to think about how easy it is for your cat to train to use the flap prior to making a purchase and install one.

It is best to place the cat flap, based on the design of your house, in a window that opens into a garden that is sheltered. This will help your cat feel secure when entering and leaving your home. If possible it will also provide them a way back case they are pursued by a different cat or by a human intent on harming them.

It's possible to put the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as simple as installing one in a wood door. This is because uPVC or composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses. This can affect the method of cutting holes, and the material you put to.

If you're installing the flap on a glass door it is recommended that you seek out a glazier that is skilled in such work to avoid costly mistakes. If you're fitting a cat Flap the flap in the door made of wood, start by introducing your cat to it before you fit it, so that they become familiar with its shape and size and explore it from every angle.

Find out the size of your cat's belly

In order to put in a cat flap that's suitable for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat. This will enable you to make sure that the flap is installed at the right height for the window or door, and that it's big enough for him to get in and exit easily.

Place your pet on its back door with cat flap fitted and gently run your fingers across their belly. Check for any squishy fat pads that might be visible around their lower back, face and the limbs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline acrobatics.

You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine the size of opening you require. If your cat is at or over 5kg, for example an opening of 14 x 12cm cat flap opening is advised.

Take a measurement of your door or Fitting a cat flap window

This kind of cat flap step flap, as the name suggests is designed to be installed into the door. It lets your pet move in and out at their convenience. They are usually made of plastic or aluminium and simply rest in the middle of the door with the possibility of a swinging door that is opened by pushing lightly on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps that provide additional security to ensure that your cat can't simply walk through from the outside.

A window is another popular location for a cat flap, and they're easy enough to fit, although they often need to be located high enough as it's difficult for cats and dogs to reach them otherwise. If the window is too high to use a cat flap then steps, ramps or purpose built stairs can be utilized to aid the animal in accessing it.

A cat flap could be installed to a brick wall, but it is not recommended unless you're skilled in masonry work as it could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it is important to ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. If there are, then a hole needs to be made for them. This is something that you should always seek professional advice on. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask can help you avoid inhaling the dust that is generated when cutting through your walls.

Select the Right Cat Flap

There are numerous cat flaps available and each one comes with various features. Some flaps are equipped with security features, such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry. They also prevent your pet from allowing friends or animals to enter the home. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to block out moisture and draughts.

There are different sizes to choose from based on the breed and size of your pet. Certain cat flap cost flaps are available in rectangular shapes, while others are square or circular. The best type of cat flap will be dictated by the space you have available and the type of window or door you are fitting it to.

Also think about the mechanism for opening your cat flap will have. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is a good alternative and is usually the cheapest. However, it won't prevent other cats or pets from gaining access and you could be letting draughts in too.

It's time to put in your cat flap. Mark the belly height of the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is sitting straight on the door and not too low. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, using a saw, 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 create holes for screws.

Prepare the Tools

Like any DIY tasks, it's advisable to make sure you have the appropriate tools for the job. The most important things you'll require are the cat flap as well as a tape measure, a good pencil as well as a spirit level, drill, file and the Jigsaw (depending on the window or door type).

Consult the manufacturer before making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal damaged. In this instance you'll require a new pane of toughened glass instead.

You'll need to use an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines provided by the manufacture. Make use of a template to determine the size of hole you require.

After you've made the hole, you'll have to sand the edges of the opening. This should prevent any water damage or rust from happening in the near future. In the end, you must apply any necessary sealant to the back of the cat flap and to the holes in the door Fitting a cat flap or window to keep out the elements of wind and rain. Once the sealant has dried it is time to install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to be able to come and go as it pleases, fitting a flap can help. The majority of people can install the flap themselves. However should you wish to put it in the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you might need a professional.

Begin by reading the instructions that come with your cat flap to find the template drawing. This will provide you with an idea of where holes for the flap need to be drilled into the door. Then, mark the areas in which you will must drill using pencil.

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

Next, you will need to attach the interior part of the flap onto the door's hole. It may be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this to keep it waterproof and weatherproof. The outer section of your cat flap can be placed on the bolts' tops and then securing them. You should test the flap on your cat to make sure that it functions properly and allows them to exit and enter easily.