Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in to your home can be a major step for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and needs extra security or you have a new kitten who require a vet check there are plenty of options there to choose from.
It can be difficult for non-professionals to install an animal flap, but with right instructions it's easy. The key is preparation, planning and precision.
Select the Right Door or Windows
There's a wide selection of cat flaps to choose from, some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from going out or entering) and others that have high-tech features such as microchip door entry systems. It is important to consider how it is easy to teach your cat to use the flap, before you buy and install one.
It is recommended to put the cat flap, based on the design of your home, in an opening that leads into an area of the garden that is protected. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering and leaving your home. This will also allow them to go back inside if they are chased by another animal or human beings who wish to hurt them.
It's possible to install a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it's not as simple as installing one into a wood door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses, and this can impact how holes are cut and the materials you're fixing them to.
To avoid costly errors to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended that you consult a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a door with a glass front. If you're installing the flap on the door made of wood, start by introduction of 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.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
You'll need the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you put in is a perfect fit. This will enable you to ensure that the cat flap is placed at the right height for the window or door, and that it's big enough to allow him to enter and exit easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers across their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back or face, or around the limbs. The padding gives your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the acrobatics cats are famous for.
You can also use the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you require. If your cat weighs up to 5kg, for instance, the suggested cat flap size is 14 x 12cm.
Make sure you measure your windows or doors
As the name suggests, this type of cat flap is made to be attached to a door and provides the pet with a way to enter or leave at any time it wishes. The flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and are located in the middle of the door. They have a two-way swinging opening that can be opened by gently pressing on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps, which provide added security so your cat can't simply walk through from the outside.
Cat flaps are also often used in windows. They are able to be easily installed, however they have to be installed at a height where cats and dogs find it difficult to access them. If the window is not high enough to use the flap for cats, you can use 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 this is not recommended unless you're familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the structure of the wall. It's important to check that there aren't any cables or pipes inside the wall before you start. You should always consult an expert when you need to make a hole for pipes and cables. It is also recommended to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust mask to avoid inhaling any sawdust that is created by cutting into your home's walls.
Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.
There are numerous cat flaps on the market and all of them offer different features. Some have security options like magnetic locks or microchip recognition to block entry by unauthorized persons and restrict your pet from letting pets or friends into the house. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to block the elements of moisture and draughts.
There are different sizes that are available based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular while others are circular or square. Selecting the best cat flap will be dictated by the space available and the type of window or door you intend to install it on.
Lastly consider the mechanism to open your cat flap will come with. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. But, it will not stop other pets or cats from entering and you may let draughts through as well.
Once you've selected the appropriate cat flap and measured your windows or doors, it's time to fit it. Make cat flap fitting on the belly of the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is straight against the door and not too low. Create a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, using a Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. When you're satisfied with the result, sand the edges and then drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.
Make sure you have the tools ready
It is essential to have the right tools when doing any DIY project. You'll require the cat flap along with tape measure and pencil as well as a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the type of window or door.
If you're installing in a composite door, you should check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes, as this may cause the warranty to be invalidated or break the weathertight seal. In this case, you'll probably require a new pane of toughened glass instead.
For wooden or uPVC doors you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap using the Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines provided by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to mark out the size hole you need.
After you've cut the required hole, you must smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will prevent future rust and water damage. Finally, 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 block rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry then you can put up your cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to go and come at will, installing flaps can aid. Most people can install the flap on their own. However, if you want to install it in the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you might need an expert.
Start by looking at the instructions that come with the flap to locate the drawing template. This will give you an idea of where the holes for the flap need to be drilled into the door. Then, mark the areas where you have to drill using a pencil.
After you have mapped out the door's area and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a relatively simple job, but you'll need to be comfortable with the jigsaw. Many companies will do this for you at a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to take on the task yourself.
Next, you will need to screw the inner part of the flap onto the hole in your door. You may need to apply sealant prior to doing this to ensure that it remains weather-proof and water resistant. The outer part of your cat flap may be placed on top of the bolts, and then tacked together. You must test the cat flap on your cat to confirm that it functions properly and that it allows the cat to go in and out easily.