Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in your home is a fantastic step for any pet owner. There are many options available for you, whether your cat is old and requires additional security or you have kittens who need to be examined.
Installing a cat flap could be intimidating for people who aren't professionals, but with the right instructions, it's easy to complete. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and accuracy.
Select the Right Door, or Windows
There's a wide selection of cat flaps that are available that come with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from leaving or entering) and others with high-tech features such as microchip door entry systems. But, it's important to consider the ease of your cat to train to use the flap before you purchase and install one.
Depending on the style of your home, it's usually best to place the cat flap in the form of a door or window that opens onto a sheltered area of the garden, so that your cat will feel secure entering and leaving the home. This will also allow them to get back inside in the event of being chased by another animal or human who wants to harm them.
It is possible to install the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as simple as installing one in a wood door. This is because uPVC and composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses, which can affect how holes are cut and the material you're fixing it to.
To avoid costly errors It is recommended that you consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you're fitting the flap into an existing wooden door you must introduce your cat to it first so that it can become familiar with its size and shape.
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 put in is a perfect fit. This will ensure that the flap is the right height on your door or window, and that it's wide enough to allow them to enter and out easily.
To do this, place your pet on their back and gently rub your fingers across their belly. Check for any squishy fat pads that could be visible on their lower back, face or the limbs. The padding provides your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics felines are famous for.
You can also take into account 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 an opening of 14 x 12cm cat flap opening is recommended.
Take a measurement of your door or window
As the name suggests the cat flap is designed to be fixed into an opening and provide the pet with a way to enter or leave as it pleases. These flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and sit in the middle of the door. They have a two-way swinging opening that is opened by lightly pushing on either side. There are locks on some of these flaps, which provide extra security, so your cat isn't able to enter the door from the outside.
A window is a common location for a cat's flap and these are easy enough to fit, although they often need to be placed high up as it's difficult for cats and dogs to access them. If the window is too high for a cat flap, steps, ramps or purpose built stairs can be utilized to help the animal access it.
It is possible to install an egress into brick walls, however it is not recommended for those who aren't familiar with the masonry industry. 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 Get the facts are, an opening must be created for them and this is something that you should always seek expert advice on. It's also advisable to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust protection mask to avoid inhaling any of the sawdust created by cutting through the walls of your house.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are numerous cat flaps on the market, and they come with various features. Some cat flaps have security features like magnetic locks or microchips that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also stop your pet from allowing friends or other animals into the house. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to keep out moisture and draughts.
There is also a choice of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, while others are circular or square. The type of cat flap you select will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the kind of door or window you're fitting it to.
Lastly think about the opening mechanism that your cat flap will have. The cheapest option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It won't prevent other animals and cats from entering, and you could also be letting in drafts.
It's time to install your cat flap. Begin by marking the belly's height on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is straight against the door and not too low. Use your spirit level to draw a sketch of the flap for cats. Then, using your Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. Once you are satisfied with the result finish sanding the edges and drill through the pencil markings to create holes for screws.
Make the Tools
Like all DIY jobs, it's always advisable to make sure you have the appropriate tools to complete the task. You'll require the cat flap, a pencil and tape measure as well as a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the kind of door or window.
Check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a door made of composite. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal damaged. In this case, you'll probably require an entirely new pane of toughened glass instead.
For wooden or uPVC doors you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap using a jigsaw and follow the instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. If possible, use an outline to help mark out the size of hole you'll will need to cut.
After you have cut the hole, you will have to sand the edges of the opening. This will stop the possibility of water damage and rust. You should also cover the holes in your window or door and the side of the flap to block rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry and dry, you can install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to move around whenever it wants, installing a flap can help. Most people can put in the flap by themselves. However, if you want to install it in the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you might need a professional.
Take a look at the instructions included with the cat flap. You will find an illustration of the template. This will provide you with an idea of where the holes for the flap will need to be made in the door. Mark the areas you'll need to drill into with a pencil.
After you have mapped out the door's opening, use a jigsaw to cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a relatively simple job, but you'll need to be comfortable with the jigsaw. If you are concerned about doing this yourself, there are plenty of businesses that can handle this for you at a minimal cost.
Then, attach Get the facts to the hole of your door. You may need to seal it prior to doing this to ensure that it stays watertight and weather resistant. You can then place the outer portion of the flap on the top of the fixing bolts and tighten them all. It is recommended that you test the flap using your cat to ensure that it works correctly and that they are able to get in and out of it.