Fitting A Cat Flap

Getting a cat flap fitted inside your home can be a major step for any pet owner. There are many options available for you, no matter if your cat is getting older and requires additional security or you have kittens that require to be vetted.

It can be a bit daunting for people who aren't experts in installing the cat flap, but with proper instructions, it's simple. Planning, preparation and precision are the key to success.

Choose the Right Door, or Window

There are a wide variety of cat flaps that are available including some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from leaving or entering) and others that have high-tech features like microchip door entry systems. It's important to think about how it is easy to train your cat to use the flap, before you buy and install one.

It is best to place the cat flap, depending on the style of your home, in an opening that leads into a sheltered garden area. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering and leaving your home. If possible it will also provide them a way back case they are chased by another cat or by humans who are intent to harm them.

It is possible to install the cat flap on a uPVC door or glass window however it's not as simple as fitting one into wooden doors. It's because upvc door panels cat flap or composite doors come in different thicknesses. This can impact the how holes are cut and the type of door you can fix into.

If you're installing the flap inside glass doors it is recommended to consult a glazier who specialises in such work to avoid costly errors. If you're installing the flap on a wooden door, start by introducing your cat to it prior to fitting it to allow them to become familiar with its shape and size, and explore it from all angles.

Find out the size of your cat's belly

It is important to know the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap you choose to install is the perfect fit. This will help you make sure that the flap is placed at the right height for the door or window and also that it's large enough for him to enter and leave easily.

To do this, place your pet on their back and gently rub your fingers along their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back and face, as well as the limbs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline acrobatics.

Alternately, you could use your pet's weight to determine the size of the opening you need. If your cat is up to 5Kg in weight for instance, a 14 x 12cm flap for the cat is advised.

Measure your window or door

This kind of cat flap, as its name suggests is made to be fitted into the door. It allows your pet to enter and exit at its convenience. They are typically made of plastic or aluminium and simply rest in the middle of the door with an open door that opens by pressing lightly on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps that provide extra security, so your cat isn't able to traverse through wall cat flap the door from outside.

A window is a common place to put a cat flap, and they're easy enough to fit, although they are usually set up high as it is difficult for cats and dogs to reach them otherwise. 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.

It is possible to put a cat flap cost near me flap into brick walls, however it is not recommended for those who aren't experienced in masonry. This could weaken the structure of the wall. It is important to make sure there aren't any cables or pipes in the wall prior to you begin. If they are, an opening must be created for them and this is something you should always seek professional advice on. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask can ensure that you don't breathe in the sawdust that is created when you cut into your walls.

Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.

There are a variety of cat flaps that are available on the market, and they have various features. Some have security options like magnetic locks or microchip recognition to stop unauthorized entry and prevent your pet from allowing friends or other animals into the home. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals that keep out draughts and moisture.

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

The last thing to do is think about the opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It won't prevent other animals and cats from entering the room, and you could be letting in drafts.

It's time to install your cat flap. Determine the belly height of the door using a ruler. Make use of a spirit-level to make sure that the line is not too low and is straight on the door. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, using the Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. Once you are satisfied with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.

Make sure you have the tools ready

It's important to have the right tools when doing any DIY project. The most important things you'll require are the cat flap along with a tape measure, a good pencil and a spirit level drill, file, and an jigsaw (depending on the windows or doors).

Consult the manufacturer before making any changes to a door made of composite. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to be damaged. In this scenario it's likely that you will need to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass.

For wooden or Fitting a cat flap uPVC doors you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap with the Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines given by the manufacturer. If you can, use a template to help you determine the dimensions of the hole you have to cut.

After you've cut the required hole, you'll need to sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This should prevent any water damage or rust from happening in the near future. You should also cover the holes in your window or door and the back of the cat flap to keep out rain and wind. After the sealant has dried it is time to install your cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to be able to come and go at will, installing flaps can aid. It's a simple procedure that most people can accomplish on their own, but you will likely need to hire an expert for installing the flap in a glass door or other kind of uPVC door.

Check out the directions that came with your cat flap. There is a drawing of the template. This will give you an idea of where the holes are to be drilled to install the flap in the door. Then, mark the areas in which you will have to drill using pencil.

Once you have marked out the door's opening, use a jigsaw to cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task, but you'll have to be comfortable using a jigsaw. If you're worried about doing it yourself, there are a lot of companies that can complete this for you at a minimal cost.

Next, you will need to screw the inner part of the cat flap to the hole in your door. It is possible to seal the flap prior to you do this to ensure it is weatherproof and watertight. The outside of your cat flap could be placed on the bolts on top, and Fitting a cat flap then securing them. It is recommended that you test the flap with your cat to make sure that it works correctly and that they are able to enter and leave easily through wall cat flap it.