Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in your home is a fantastic step for any pet owner. There are numerous options to you, regardless of whether your cat is getting older and requires additional security, or you have kittens that need to be checked.
Installing a cat flap can be intimidating for people who aren't professionals, but, with the right instructions, it's not hard to complete. Preparation, planning and precision are the most important factors.
Select the Right Door or Windows
There are a wide variety of cat flaps available, some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from leaving or coming in) and others that have high-tech features such as microchip door entry systems. It's important to think about how easy it will be to teach your cat to use the flap, before you purchase and install one.
It is recommended to put the cat flap, depending on the design of your house, in a window that opens into an area of the garden that is protected. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering and leaving your home. If possible it will also provide them a route back in should they get chased by another cat or by humans intent to harm them.
It is possible to install a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it's not as easy as putting one on a wooden door. This is because uPVC and composite doors come in various thicknesses, which can affect the way holes are cut as well as 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 this type of work to avoid any costly errors. If you're installing the flap onto a wooden door, you should introduce your cat first to make sure it is familiar with its dimensions and shape.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
It is important to know the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you install is the perfect fit. This will enable you to make sure that the flap is at the right height on the door or window and that it's big enough for him to get in and exit easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers across their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back, face or legs. The padding gives your pet safety and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics that felines are known for.
You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine the size of opening you require. If your cat is at or above 5kg in weight, for example, a 14 x 12cm flap for the cat is advised.
Make sure you measure your window or door
This type of cat flap, as its name suggests, is designed to be installed into the door. It lets your pet be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. The flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door. They have a two-way swinging opening that opens by gently pushing on either side. These flaps can be locked which provide extra security so your cat cannot simply traverse the door from outside.
A window is another common location for a cat's flap, and they are simple enough to install, though they often need to be set up high as it is difficult for dogs and cats to reach them otherwise. If the window isn't high enough to use a cat's flap, you can opt for ramps, steps, or specially designed stairs to assist the animal in reaching it.
It is possible to put a cat flap into a brickwall, but it is not recommended for those who aren't experienced in masonry. This could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it's important to make sure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. You should always consult a professional if you need to make a hole for pipes and cables. Wearing protective glasses or a dust mask will help you avoid inhaling the sawdust created when cutting into your walls.
Choose the right cat flap
There are numerous cat flaps on the market and all of them offer various features. Some flaps are equipped with security features such as magnetic locks or microchips that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also prevent your pet from letting guests or other animals into the house. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to keep out moisture and draughts.
There are different sizes to choose from based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are circular or square. The kind of cat flap you select will depend on the size of the opening and the type of window or door you're installing it to.
The last thing to do is think about the opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. A simple aluminium or plastic swing-out door is a good alternative and is usually the least expensive. It won't prevent other pets and cats from entering the room, and you could let in draughts.
It's time to put in your cat flap. Determine the belly height of the door using your ruler. Use a spirit-level to make sure the line isn't too low and that it is straight across the door. Draw 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. When you are satisfied with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for screws.
Make replacement upvc door panel with cat flap Repair My Windows And Doors
As with any DIY tasks, it's best to have the appropriate tools to complete the task. You'll need the cat flap along with tape measure and pencil along with a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the type of window or door.
If you're installing in a composite door, it is recommended to consult with the manufacturer before making any alterations because this could affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this instance, you'll probably have to install an additional pane of toughened glass instead.
You'll need the jigsaw to cut your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions provided by the manufacture. If possible, use an outline to help determine the size of hole you'll need to cut.
After you have cut the hole, you will have to sand off the edges of the opening. This will stop any rust or water damage from happening in the near future. You should also cover the holes in your window or door and the back of the flap to block rain and wind. After the sealant has dried, you're ready to install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to come and go as it pleases, fitting flaps can aid. This is a straightforward process that most people can complete by themselves, though you will likely need to hire an expert for installing the flap on a glass door or other type of uPVC door.
Take a look at the instructions that came with the cat flap. You will find a template drawing. This will provide you with an idea of where the holes for the flap have to be drilled in the door. Mark the areas you will have to drill with the pencil.
After you have marked the door on your door, use the jigsaw and cut out the shape for the cat flap. This is a relatively simple job however, you'll need to be comfortable with the saw. Numerous companies will perform this work for you for a reasonable price if you are hesitant to take on the task yourself.
Then, attach the outer part to the hole in your door. You may need to apply sealant before making this move to ensure it is weather and water resistant. The outer part of your cat flap can be placed on top of the bolts, and then tightened together. You must test the cat flap on your cat to ensure that it functions properly and allows them to exit and enter easily.