Fitting A Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in to your home can be a huge step for any pet owner. There are many options available for you, cat flap bifold doors no matter if your cat is getting older and needs extra security or you have kittens that require to be examined.

It can be intimidating for people who aren't experts in installing a cat flap, but with the right instructions it's easy. Planning, preparation and precision are the keys.

Choose the Right Door or Window

There are a wide variety of cat flaps to choose from including some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from leaving or coming in) and others that have high-tech features such as microchip door entry systems. It is important to consider how easy your cat is to train to use the flap before you buy and install one.

It is recommended to put the cat flap, depending on the style of your home, in a window that opens into a sheltered garden area. This will help your cat feel secure when entering or leaving your home. If you can this will also allow them a route back in should they get chased by a cat or by humans intent on harming them.

It is possible to install the cat flap on the case of a uPVC door or glass window however it's not as straightforward as putting one in the door made of wood. This is because uPVC and composite doors come in different thicknesses, which can affect the way holes are cut and the material you're fixing it into.

To avoid costly errors to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended that you consult a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you're fitting cat flap in upvc door panel the flap to an old wooden door, begin by introduction of your cat to it prior to fitting it so that they can become familiar with its size and shape and explore it from all angles.

Take a look at your cat flap bifold Doors's belly measurement

You'll need your cat's measurements to make sure that the cat flap you put in is a perfect fit. This will help you ensure that the flap is at the correct height on your door or window and that it's big enough for them to enter and out easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers over their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back or face, or around the legs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline circus skills.

You can also use the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you require. If your cat is at or above 5kg in weight, for example that's a 14x12cm flap for your cat is recommended.

Take a measurement of your door or window

This type of cat flap, as its name suggests is designed to be affixed to a door. It allows your pet to move in and out at their convenience. These flaps are constructed of aluminum or plastic and sit in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that is opened by gently pushing on either side. These flaps are available with locking options that provide additional security so your cat cannot simply enter the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also commonly employed in windows. They can be easily installed, but they have to be installed at a height where cats and dogs have a difficult time to get them. If the window is not high enough to use the flap for cats, you can opt for ramps, steps, or stairs that are specially designed to help the animal reach it.

It is possible to install the cat flap onto brick walls, however it is not recommended for people who aren't familiar with masonry. This could weaken the structure of the wall. It's important to check that there are no cables and pipes within the wall before you begin. If they are, an opening must be created for them and this is something you should always seek professional advice on. It's also advisable to wear safety goggles and a dust-proof mask to avoid inhaling any sawdust that is created by cutting through the walls of your house.

Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.

There are numerous cat flaps available and they all have various features. Some have security options like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that stop unauthorized entry and prevent your pet from allowing pets or friends into the house. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to keep out draughts and moisture.

There are various sizes to choose from based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are circular or square. The kind of cat flap you select will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the type of window or door you're fixing it to.

The last thing to do is take into consideration the kind of opening mechanism your cat flap will use. A simple aluminum or plastic swing-out door is one option and is usually the least expensive. However, it will not prevent other cats or pets from entering your home and you could let draughts through too.

It's time to install your cat flap. Start by marking the height of the belly on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is sitting straight against the door and not too low. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap cost flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, using a saw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you are happy with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil markings to create holes for screws.

Make sure you have the tools ready

Like any DIY tasks, it's best to have the appropriate tools for the job. You'll need the cat flap along with an eraser and tape measure, a spirit-level, a drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the type of door or window with cat flap.

Check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal to become broken. In this instance you'll have to install an entirely new pane of toughened glass instead.

You'll require a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions provided by the manufacture. If possible, use a template to help you determine the dimensions of the hole you'll have to cut.

After you've made the hole, you should then sand down the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop any rust or water damage from happening in the future. Also, you should apply any necessary sealant to the back of the cat flap as well as to the holes in the window or door to block the elements of wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry, you're ready to install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to go and come as it pleases, fitting flaps can be helpful. The majority of people can install the flap themselves. However, if you want to put it in the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you may require a professional.

Begin by studying the instructions included with your cat flap to find the template drawing. This will provide you with an idea of where the holes for the flap will need to be drilled into the door. Mark the areas that you'll have to drill using the pencil.

After you've marked the door's area and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a relatively easy task, but you'll need to be comfortable using the Jigsaw. Many companies will complete this for you at a reasonable price if you are hesitant to take on the task yourself.

Then, attach the outer part to the hole of your door. You may have to apply sealant before making this move to ensure it is weather and water resistant. You can then place the outer portion of the cat flap cost flap on top of the fixing bolts and then tighten them all together. You should test the cat flap on your cat to ensure that it functions properly and that it allows them to enter and exit easily.