Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in your home is a great step for any pet owner. There are many options available to you, regardless of whether your cat is old and requires extra security or if you have kittens that need to be vetted.
It can be intimidating for people who aren't experts in installing the cat flap, but with right instructions it's easy. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and precision.
Select the Right Door, or Windows
There are a wide variety of cat flaps that are available that come with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from leaving or coming in) and others with advanced features such as microchip door entry systems. It is important to think about how easy it is for your cat to teach to use the flap before you buy and install one.
Based on the style of your home, it's generally best to place the cat flap inside an opening or window that opens onto a sheltered area of the garden so your cat can feel safe when going into and out of the house. This will also enable them to go back inside in the event of being pursued by a pet or humans who want to harm them.
It is possible to install an egress flap inside a uPVC door or glass window however it's not as easy as fitting one into a wooden door. It's because uPVC or composite doors come in various thicknesses. This can impact the method of cutting holes, and the material you put 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 mistakes. If you're fitting the flap on an old wooden door, begin by introducing your cat to it before you fit it so that they can get used to its shape and size and explore it from all angles.
Find out the size of your cat's belly
You'll need the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap you install is a perfect fit. This will allow you to ensure that your cat flap is installed at the right height for the window or door, and that it is large enough for him to get in and out easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers over their belly. Check for any squishy fat pads that could be visible on their lower back, face and limbs. The extra padding offers your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics that felines are famous for.
Alternatively, you can also make use of your pet's weight to gauge how big an opening you require. If your cat weighs more than 5kg, for instance the suggested flap opening size is 14 x 12cm.
Take a measurement of your door or window
As the name suggests, this type of cat flap is made to be attached to the door, and offers a way for your pet to leave or enter at any time it wishes. They are usually made of plastic or aluminium and simply rest in the middle of the door. They come with an open door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. The flaps are available with locking options that offer added security, which means that your cat can't enter the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also commonly employed in windows. They are able to be easily installed, however they have to be set at an elevated level since cats and dogs find it difficult to access them. If the window isn't sufficient in height to be used as a cat's flap, you can make use of ramps, steps, or stairs that are specially designed to assist the animal in reaching it.
A cat flap could also be fitted into a brick wall but it is not recommended unless skilled in masonry work as it could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's important to ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. If there are, a hole needs to be made for them. This is something that you should always seek expert advice on. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask will ensure that you don't breathe in the sawdust that is created when cutting through your walls.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are numerous cat flaps on the market, and they have various features. Some cat flaps have security features like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry. They also stop your pet from allowing friends or other animals into the home. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to block draughts and moisture.
There's also a variety of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, while others are circular or square. Selecting the best cat flap is determined by the space you have available and the kind of door or window you are fitting it to.
Lastly consider the mechanism for opening your cat flap will have. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It won't prevent other pets and cats from entering the room, and you could be letting in drafts.
Once you have selected the right cat flap and measured your windows or doors and window, it's now time to put it in place it. Begin by marking the height of the belly on the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is sitting straight on 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 the jigsaw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you are satisfied with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil lines to create holes for screws.
Prepare the Tools
Like all DIY tasks, it's best to have the right tools to complete the task. You'll need a cat flap as well as 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 a composite door, it is recommended to consult with the manufacturer before making any changes, since this could invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this scenario, it's likely that you will need to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass.
For wooden or uPVC doors you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap using the Jigsaw. Follow the directions given by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to mark out the size hole you'll need.
After you've cut the hole, you'll need to sand the edges of the opening. This will help prevent future rust and water damage. You should also seal the holes in your door or window and the back of the cat flap to prevent rain and wind. Once Read the Full Posting is dry then you can put up your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to come and go at will, installing a flap can help. Most people can put in the flap on their own. However should you wish to install it in glass or uPVC type door, you may require a professional.
Check out the directions that came with your cat flap. You will find a drawing of the template. This will give an idea of where holes need to be made for the flap to be placed in the door. Then, mark the places where you have to drill using pencil.
After you've marked the area in your door then use a jigsaw cut out the shape of the cat flap. It's a relatively easy job however, you'll need to be comfortable with a jigsaw. Many companies will do this task for you for a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to tackle it yourself.
The next step is to screw the inner part of the cat flap to the hole in your door. It is possible to seal the flap before you do this in order to keep it waterproof and weatherproof. The outer section of your cat flap may be placed on the bolts on top, and then tacked together. Read the Full Posting should test the cat flap on your cat to confirm that it is working correctly and allows them to enter and exit easily.