Fitting a Cat Flap

Getting a cat flap fitted into your home could be a major step for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have kittens that require a thorough screening there are a lot of options there for you.
It can be a bit daunting for people who aren't experts in installing the cat flap, but with the right instructions it's easy. The key is preparation, planning and accuracy.
Select the Right Door or Window
There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, some with locks that can be used to prevent your pet from going out or in and others with high tech features like microchip door entry systems. It's important to think about how it is easy to teach your cat to use the flap before you buy and install one.
Depending on the design of your home It is recommended to place the cat flap near an opening or window that opens onto an area of protection in the garden so your cat is secure when entering and leaving the home. This will also allow them to return inside in the event of being chased by another animal or human who wants to harm them.
It is possible to install a cat-flap in 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 are available in different thicknesses, which affect how holes are cut and the material you're fixing it into.
If you're installing the flap in glass doors, it's recommended that you consult a glazier who specialises in such work to avoid costly errors. If you are fitting the flap onto the door made of wood you must introduce your cat to it at first to make sure it is familiar with its dimensions and shape.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
To install a cat flap that's the right size for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat. This will ensure that the flap is at the correct height on your door or window and that it's large enough to allow them to get in and exit with ease.
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 or face, or around the limbs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline acrobatics.
Alternatively, you can also use your pet's weight to determine the size of an opening you need. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg in weight, for example, a 14 x 12cm cat flap opening is advised.
Make sure you measure your window or door
This kind of cat flap, as its name suggests, is designed to be affixed to the door. It lets your pet enter and exit at its convenience. These flaps are constructed of aluminum or plastic and sit in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that opens by lightly pushing on either side. They can be locked which provide extra security so that your cat is not able to enter the door from outside.
A window is a common location for a cat's flap, and they are simple enough to fit, although they usually need to be located high enough as it's difficult for dogs and cats to reach them otherwise. If the window isn't sufficient to accommodate the flap for cats, you can make use of ramps, steps or specially designed stairs to help the animal reach it.
composite door cat flap is possible to put an egress into brick walls, however it is not recommended for those who aren't experienced in the masonry industry. This could cause the wall to weaken. Before you begin, it's essential to ensure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. It is recommended to consult a professional if you need to make a hole for pipes and cables. It's also advisable to wear safety goggles and a dust mask to prevent inhaling any of the sawdust created by cutting into your home's walls.
Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.
There are many different cat flaps available and all of them offer various features. Some have security options like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by unauthorized persons and prevent 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 depending on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular while others are square or circular. The kind of cat flap you select will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the type of window or door you're installing it to.
Finally consider the opening mechanism that your cat flap is likely to have. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is one alternative and is usually the least expensive. It won't stop other animals and cats from entering, and you could also be letting in draughts.
It's time to put in your cat flap. Begin by marking the belly's height on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is sitting straight on the door and not too low. Utilize your spirit level to draw a template for the cat flap. Then, using a jigsaw, cut out the outline of the door. When you're satisfied with the results sand down the edges and then drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.
Prepare the Tools
It's essential to have the right tools for doing any DIY project. The most essential things you'll need are the cat flap along with a tape measure, a decent pencil, a spirit level, drill, file and the Jigsaw (depending on your door or window 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 case you'll have to install a new pane of toughened glass instead.
For wooden or uPVC doors will require cutting out the design of your cat flap with the jigsaw and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to mark the size hole you need.
After you've cut the required hole, you must sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This should prevent any water damage or rust from happening in the future. Also, you should apply any sealant you require to the back of the cat flap, and to the holes in the door or window to keep out rain and wind. When the sealant has dried and dry, you can install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
Fitting a flap will allow your cat to go and come whenever it pleases. Most people can put in the flap by themselves. However when you plan to install it on glass or uPVC type door, you may require a professional.
Take a look at the instructions included with the cat flap. You will find a template drawing. This will give you an idea of where the holes will be made for the flap to be placed in the door. Then, mark the areas where you need to drill with the pencil.
Once you have marked out the door's opening, use a jigsaw to cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a relatively simple job, but you'll need to be comfortable using a jigsaw. If you're worried about doing this yourself, there are many companies that can do this for you at a low cost.
Then, screw the inner part to the hole in your door. It is possible to seal the flap before you do this to ensure it is weatherproof and watertight. The outer section of your cat flap can be placed on top of the bolts, and then tacked together. It is recommended that you test the cat flap with your cat to make sure that it is working properly and that they can enter and leave easily through it.