Fitting A Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in your home is a great step for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and requires extra security, or you have kittens that require a thorough screening there are plenty of options out there for you.

It can be intimidating for those who aren't professionals to put in the cat flap, but with the proper guidelines, it's easy. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and precision.

Choose the Right Door, or Window

There are a variety of cat flaps to choose from, some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet going out or coming in) and others with advanced features such as microchip door entry systems. It is important to think about how easy your cat is to teach to use the flap prior to making a purchase and fit one.

Based on the style of your house, it's generally best to place the Cat flap installation bristol flap near the form of a door or window that opens out into an area that is protected from the garden so that your cat can feel safe when leaving and entering the home. If you can this will also allow them a way back should they be chased by another cat or by humans intent to harm them.

It's possible to install the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't the same as fitting one in a wood door. This is because replacement upvc door panels with cat flap or composite doors come in various thicknesses. This could affect the how holes are cut and what you fix into.

To avoid costly errors It is recommended to consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If you are fitting the flap to an existing wooden door, you should introduce your cat to it first so that it can become familiar with its dimensions and shape.

Take a look at your cat's belly measurement

In order to put in an appropriate cat flap that is suitable for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat. This will allow 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 leave easily.

To do this, lay your pet on their back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Feel for any squishy fat pads which could be visible on their lower back, face or legs. The padding gives your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics felines are famous for.

You can also use the weight of your pet to determine the size of opening you require. If your cat weighs more than 5Kg, for example the suggested cat flap opening size is 14 x 12cm.

Take a measurement of your door or window

The name implies this kind of cat flap is designed to be fixed into a door and provides a way for your pet to enter or leave as it pleases. They are typically made of plastic or aluminium and simply sit in the centre of the door. They have an open door that opens by pushing lightly on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps that provide added security so your cat isn't able to traverse through the door from outside.

A window is another common place to put a cat flap and these are easy enough to fit, although they usually need to be located high enough as it's difficult for cats and dogs to access them. If the window is not high enough to use a cat's flap, then you can opt for ramps, steps, or specially designed stairs to aid the animal in getting to it.

A cat flap could be incorporated into a brick wall, however it is not recommended unless skilled in masonry work as it could weaken the wall's structure. It's important to check that there are no cables and pipes inside the wall before you begin. It is recommended to consult an expert if you have to create a hole for pipes and cables. It's also advisable to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust mask to avoid breathing in any of the sawdust created by cutting into your home's walls.

Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.

There are numerous cat flaps available and each one comes with various features. Some are equipped with security features like magnetic locks or microchips that stop unauthorized entry and restrict your pet from letting guests or other animals to enter the home. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals that keep out the elements of moisture and draughts.

There is also a choice of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Some double glazing cat flap flaps are rectangular whereas others are circular or square. The best type of cat flap is determined by the space available and the type of door or window you want to attach it to.

Also think about the mechanism to open your cat flap is likely to have. A simple aluminum or plastic swing-out door is an choice and is typically the least expensive. It will not stop other cats and pets from entering however, and you could be letting in draughts.

It's time to put in your cat flap. Determine the belly height of the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is 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, you can use your jigsaw to cut out the outline of the door. When you're happy with the result, sand the edges and drill through the pencil marks to create holes for the screws.

Prepare the Tools

As with all DIY tasks, it's best to have the right tools for the job. You'll require the cat flap, a pencil and tape measure, a spirit-level, a drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the kind of window or door.

If you're installing in a composite door, cat flap installation bristol consult with the manufacturer before making any changes because this could cause the warranty to be invalidated or break the weathertight seal. In this instance you'll likely have to install an additional pane of toughened glass instead.

For wooden or uPVC doors, you'll need to cut out the shape of your cat flap using a Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. Make use of a template to mark the size hole you require.

After you've made the hole, you will have to sand off the edges of the opening. This will help prevent future rust and water damage. Also, you should apply any sealant that is needed to the rear of the cat flap, and to the holes in the door or window to keep out the elements of wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry 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 double glazing to come and go whenever it wishes. This is a straightforward process that most people can do on their own, but you'll likely require the help of a professional if you are installing the flap on a glass door or other type of uPVC door.

Look at the instructions included with your cat flap. You will find a template drawing. This will give an idea of where the holes are to be made for the flap to be placed in the door. Then, mark the places in which you will have to drill using a pencil.

Once you have marked out the area in your door and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a relatively easy job, but you'll require a good understanding of a Jigsaw. Many companies will complete this for you for a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to tackle it yourself.

Then, you can screw the inside part of the door to the hole in your door. It may be necessary to seal the flap before you do this to keep it weatherproof and watertight. The outer part of your cat flap can be placed on top of the bolts, and then securing them. It is recommended that you test the flap using your cat to make sure that it works correctly and that they are able to enter and leave easily through it.