Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in your home is a great step for any pet owner. If your cat is old and requires 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 those who aren't professionals to put in a cat flap, but with right instructions it's easy. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the keys.
Choose 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 going out or coming in) and others with high-tech 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 prior to making a buy and install one.
Depending on the design of your house It is recommended to put the cat flap in an opening or window that opens onto an area that is protected from the garden so that your cat can feel safe when going into and out of the house. This will also allow them to get back inside if they are pursued by a pet or human who wants to harm them.
It's possible to install the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as easy as putting one into a wood door. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in various thicknesses. This can affect the way holes are cut, and what you fix to.
To avoid costly errors It is recommended to consult an expert glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If you're fitting the flap in a wooden door, start by introducing your cat to it before you fit it, so that they get used to its shape and size and explore it from all angles.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
It is important to know the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you choose to install is a perfect fit. This will ensure that the flap is the right height on your window or door and that it's wide enough to allow them to enter and exit easily.
To do this, lay your pet on their back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Feel for any fat pads that are squishy which could be visible on their lower back, face or limbs. The extra padding offers your pet safety and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics that felines are known for.
Alternatively, you can also consider your pet's weight as a way to determine the size of an opening you require. If your cat is at or above 5kg in weight for instance that's a 14x12cm cat flap opening is recommended.
Measure Your Door or Window
This kind of cat flap, as the name suggests, is designed to be affixed to 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 sit in the centre of the door. They come with an open door that is opened by pushing lightly on either side. They are available in locking versions which provide extra security so your cat cannot simply walk through the door from outside.
A window is another popular location for a cat flap, and they're easy enough to install, though they usually need to be set up high as it is difficult for cats and dogs to reach them otherwise. If the window is not sufficient in height to be used as a cat's flap, then you can use ramps, steps or specially designed stairs to aid the animal in getting to it.
A cat flap can also be fitted into a brick wall, however this is not recommended unless you are experienced in masonry work as it 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. Always consult an expert if you have to create a hole for cables and pipes. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask can allow you to avoid breathing in the sawdust created when you cut into your walls.
Choose the right cat flap
There are many cat flaps on the market, and they come with various features. Some have security options such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry and also restrict your pet from letting pets or friends into the home. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to block the elements of moisture and draughts.
There are various sizes available depending 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 will be determined by the space you have available and the type of door or window you are fitting it to.
Lastly, think about the mechanism to open your cat flap will come with. A simple aluminum or plastic swing-out door is one alternative and is usually the least expensive. However, it will not stop other pets or cats from gaining access and you could be letting draughts in as well.
Once you have selected the appropriate cat flap and measured the door or window, it's time to fit it. Start by marking the belly height on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line isn't too low and is straight on the door. Utilize your spirit level to draw a sketch of the flap for cats. Then, you can use your Jigsaw to cut the outline in the door. When you're happy with the result, sand the edges and then drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.
Make sure you have the tools ready
It is essential to have the right tools when undertaking any DIY project. You'll need the cat flap, tape measure and pencil as well as a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the kind of door or window.
Consult the manufacturer before making any changes to a door made of composite. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to become damaged. In this case it's likely that you will need to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.
You'll need to use the jigsaw to cut your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the instructions given by the manufacturer. Make use of a template to mark the size hole you need.
After you have cut the hole, you will have 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 side of the flap to prevent wind and rain. After the sealant has dried then you can put up your new cat-flap!
Install the Flap
The installation of a flap will allow your cat to go and come whenever it wishes. It's a simple procedure that most people can do on their own, but you'll likely require the help of an expert if you're installing the flap on a glass door or other type of uPVC door.
Check out the directions included with the cat flap. There is a drawing of the template. This will give you an idea of where the holes for the flap need to be drilled into the door. Then, mark the places where you have to drill using a pencil.
After you have mapped out the door's opening and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task, but you will need to be comfortable using the jigsaw. Numerous companies will perform this work for you at a reasonable cost if you are hesitant to tackle it yourself.
Then, attach the outer part to the hole in your door. It is possible to seal the flap prior to you do this to ensure it is waterproof and weatherproof. You can then put the outer section of the flap on top of the fixing bolts and then tighten them all together. cat flap installer near me must test the cat flap on your cat to ensure that it's working properly and that it allows them to enter and exit easily.