Fitting A Cat Flap

Getting a cat flap fitted in to your home can be a big step for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and needs extra security or you have new kittens that need to be vetted, there are plenty of options out there to choose from.

Installing a cat flap can be intimidating for people who aren't professionals, but, with the right instructions, it's not hard to accomplish. The key is preparation, planning and precision.

Choose the Right Door or Windows

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

It is recommended to put the cat flap, based on the style of your home, in an opening that leads into an area of the garden that is protected. This will help your cat feel secure when entering and leaving your home. If you can this will also allow them a route back in should they be chased by a cat or by humans who are intent to hurt them.

It is possible to install the cat flap on the form of a uPVC door or glass window however it's not as easy as putting one in a wooden door. This is because uPVC or composite doors come in various thicknesses. This could affect the way holes are cut, and the type of door you can fix into.

If you're installing the flap on a glass door it is recommended that you find a glazier who is experienced in this kind of work to avoid costly errors. If you're installing the flap in an old wooden door, begin by the cat with it prior to fitting it, so that they get used to its shape and size, and explore it from every angle.

Measure Your Cat's Belly

You'll need your cat's measurements to make sure that the cat flap you choose to install is a perfect fit. This will enable you to ensure that the cat flap is at the right height on the window or door, 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 across their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back and face, as well as the legs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline circus skills.

Alternately, you could use your pet's weight to determine the size of the opening you need. If your cat is at or over 5kg, for example that's a 14x12cm cat flap opening is advised.

Measure your windows or doors

As the name suggests this kind of cat flap is designed to be affixed to an opening and provide an opportunity for your pet to leave or enter as it pleases. These flaps are made of plastic or aluminum and are located in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that is opened by gently pressing on either side. These flaps can be locked that offer added security, so your cat cannot simply traverse the door from outside.

A window is a common location for a cat flap, and they are simple enough to put in, but they are usually located high enough as it's difficult for cats and dogs to access them. If the window isn't sufficient to accommodate a cat's flap, then you can make use of steps, ramps or stairs that are specially designed to assist the animal in reaching it.

It is possible to put the cat flap onto a brickwall, but it is not recommended for those who aren't experienced in masonry. This could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it is important to ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. Always consult a professional if you need to cut a hole in the wall for cables and pipes. It is also recommended to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust-proof mask to avoid breathing in any sawdust that is created by cutting holes in the walls of your house.

Choose the right cat flap cost flap

There are numerous cat flaps on the market and all of them offer different features. Some come with security options like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by unauthorized persons and restrict your pet from letting guests or other animals to enter the home. Some have weatherproof seals and insulation to block out the elements and Cat flap keep out drafts.

There are different sizes to choose from based on the breed and size of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, whereas others are square or circular. Choosing the right type of cat flap is determined by the space you have available and the kind of door or window you intend to install it on.

Also think about the mechanism for opening your cat flap will come with. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. It won't prevent other pets and cats from entering, and you could also be letting in drafts.

After you've chosen the appropriate cat flap and measured your window or door, it's time to fit it. Start by marking the belly height on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is straight on the door and not too low. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, using a Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. Once you're happy with the result, sand the edges and drill through the pencil lines to create holes for the screws.

Prepare the Tools

It's important to have the right tools available when performing any DIY project. The main things you'll need are the cat flap itself along with a tape measure, a good pencil, a spirit level, a file, drill and a Jigsaw (depending on your windows or doors).

Contact 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, it's likely that you'll need to replace the glass with a brand new piece of toughened glass.

You'll need to use a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. Use a template to mark the size hole you'll require.

After you've cut the required hole, you'll need to smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This should prevent any water damage or rust from occurring in the future. It is also recommended to cover the holes in your window or door and the back door with cat flap fitted of the flap to prevent rain and wind. After the sealant has dried and dry, you can install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

The installation of a flap will allow your cat flap installation to go and come whenever it wants. This is a simple process that most people can accomplish themselves, although you may require the help of an expert if you're installing the flap in the form of a glass door or another type of uPVC door.

Start by looking at the instructions provided with your cat flap to locate the template drawing. This will provide you with an idea of where the holes for the flap need to be made in the door. Mark the areas you will need to drill into using a pencil.

After you have marked the door on your door, use the jigsaw to cut the the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task however, you'll need to be comfortable using a Jigsaw. Many companies will complete this work for you at a reasonable price If you're not sure how to tackle it yourself.

Then, attach the outer part to the hole in your door. It may be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this, in order to ensure it is waterproof and weatherproof. The outside of your cat flap may be placed on the bolts' tops and then tacked together. You should test the flap on your cat to confirm that it is working correctly and that it allows them to exit and enter easily.