Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is an excellent option for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and needs extra security or you have kittens that need to be vetted, there are plenty of options there to choose from.
It can be a bit daunting for people who aren't experts in installing an animal flap, but with the right instructions it's easy. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and precision.
Select the Right Door or Window
There are a variety of cat flaps, some with locks that can be used to keep your pet from leaving or in and others with modern features such as microchips or a door entry system. It is important to think about how easy it will be to teach your cat to use the flap before you purchase and install one.
Depending on the style of your house, it's generally best to place the cat flap in 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. This will also allow them to go back inside in the event of being chased by another animal or human beings who wish to harm them.
It is possible to install the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't the same as fitting one into a wood door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses, which affect the way holes are cut as well as the materials you're fixing them to.
To avoid costly mistakes It is recommended to consult an expert glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you're fitting the flap into the door made of wood you must introduce your cat to it at first so that it can become familiar with its size and shape.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
In order to put in a cat flap that's suitable for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat's height. This will allow you to ensure that your cat flap is at the right height on the window or door, and that it's big enough for him to enter and out easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back, face or limbs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline circus skills.
You can also take into account the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you need. If your cat weighs up to 5kg, for instance the suggested flap opening size is 14x12cm.
Measure your door or window
This type of cat flap, as its name suggests is made to be fitted into a door. It lets your pet be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. They are usually made from plastic or aluminium and simply are placed in the middle of the door with a two-way swinging door that is opened by pushing lightly on either side. There are locks on some of these flaps, which provide extra security, so your cat can't simply traverse through the door from outside.
A window is another popular location for a cat's flap, and they are simple enough to install, though they are usually placed high up as it's difficult for cats and dogs to access them. If the window is too high for a cat flap, ramps, steps or specially constructed stairs can be used to aid the animal in accessing it.
It is possible to put an egress into brick walls, however it is not recommended for people who are not experienced in brickwork. This could weaken the wall's structure. It's important to check that there aren't any cables or pipes inside the wall before you start. If they are, an opening must be created for them and this is something that you should always seek professional advice on. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask will ensure that you don't breathe in the sawdust created when you cut into your walls.
Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.
There are many cat flaps on the market, and have various features. Some are equipped with security features such as magnetic locks or microchips that stop unauthorized entry and stop your pet allowing pets or friends into the house. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to keep out the elements and keep out drafts.
There are also different sizes available depending on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are square or circular. The kind of cat flap you pick will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the kind of door or window you're fixing it to.
Lastly, think about the opening mechanism that your cat flap is likely to have. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. It won't stop other pets and cats from entering the room, and you could let in draughts.
It's time to put in your cat flap. Make a mark on the belly of the door with your ruler. Use a spirit-level to ensure that the line is not too low and that it is straight across the door. Utilize your spirit level to draw a template for the cat flap. Next, use your saw to cut out the door's outline. When you're happy with the result, sand the edges and then drill through the pencil marks to make holes for screws.
Make sure you have the tools ready
Like any DIY jobs, it's always advisable to make sure you have the right tools for the job. The most essential things you'll need are the cat flap along with a tape measure, a good pencil as well as a spirit level, drill, file and the Jigsaw (depending on the window or door type).
Contact the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a door made of composite. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal to be damaged. In this scenario, you'll probably require an additional pane of toughened glass instead.
You'll need the jigsaw to cut your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions that are provided by the manufacturer. If you can, use an example to determine the size of hole you have to cut.
After you've cut the hole, you will have to sand the edges of the opening. This will prevent any water damage or rust from happening in the near future. It is also recommended to seal the holes in your door or window and the back of the flap to prevent rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry, you can install your cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to come and go as it pleases, fitting a flap can help. It's a simple procedure that most people can accomplish themselves, although you'll likely need to hire an expert if you're installing the flap in the form of a glass door or another kind of uPVC door.
Check out the directions that came with your cat flap. You will find a drawing of the template. This will give you an idea of where the holes are to be made for the flap on the door. Mark the areas you'll have to drill with a pencil.
After you have marked the door on your door, use the jigsaw to cut the design for the cat flap. This is a fairly simple job, but you'll need to be comfortable using a Jigsaw. Many companies will complete this work for you at a reasonable cost If you're not sure how to do it yourself.
Next, RepairMyWindowsAndDoors will need to screw the inner part of the cat flap to the hole in your door. You may need to seal it prior to doing this to ensure it remains weather-proof and water resistant. You can then place the outer part of the flap on the top of the fixing bolts and tighten them all together. You must test the cat flap on your cat to make sure that it is working correctly and that it allows the cat to go in and out easily.