Fitting a Cat Flap

Getting a cat flap fitted inside your home can be a major step for any pet owner. If your cat is old and requires extra security, or you have new kittens who require a vet check There are plenty of options there for you.
It can be intimidating for people who aren't experts in installing the cat flap, but with the proper guidelines, it's easy. The most important thing is planning, preparation and accuracy.
Select the Right Door, or Windows
There are a variety of cat flaps that are available that come with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from going out or entering) and others with high-tech features like microchip door entry systems. It is important to consider how easy your cat is to teach to use the flap before you purchase and install one.
It is best to place the cat flap, based on the design of your house, in the form of a window that opens to a garden that is sheltered. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering and leaving your home. If possible this will also allow them a way back should they be chased by another cat or by a human intent on harming them.
You can install a cat flap in the form of a uPVC door or a glass window, but it's not as simple as fitting one into wooden doors. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors are available in different thicknesses, which affect the way holes are cut as well as what you're fixing to.
To avoid costly mistakes 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 onto an existing wooden door, you should introduce your cat first so that it can become familiar with its size and shape.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
You'll need your cat's measurements to make sure that the cat flap you choose to install is a perfect fit. This will ensure that the flap is at the right height for your door or window, and that it's large enough to allow them to enter and exit easily.
To do this, put your pet on their back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Look for any fat pads that are squishy - these might be visible around their lower back, face, and the limbs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline acrobatics.
Alternatively, you can also consider your pet's weight as a way to determine the size of an opening you'll need. If your cat is at or above 5kg in weight, for example an opening of 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 installed into the door. It allows your pet to enter and exit at its convenience. They are typically 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 which provide extra security which means that your cat can't traverse the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also frequently used in windows. They can be easily installed, however they have to be placed at a height where cats and dogs have a difficult time to reach them. If the window isn't sufficient to accommodate the flap for cats, you can use ramps, steps, or specially designed stairs to assist the animal in reaching it.
It is possible to install a cat flap into brick walls, however it is not recommended for those who are not experienced in the masonry industry. This could weaken the structure of the wall. It is essential to ensure that there are no cables and pipes in the wall prior to you begin. Always consult over here if you have to create a hole for cables and pipes. It's also advisable to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust-proof mask to prevent inhaling any sawdust that is created by cutting through your home's walls.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are a variety of cat flaps on the market, and come with various features. fitting a cat flap in a upvc door have security features such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry. They also stop your pet from allowing friends or animals to enter the home. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals that keep out draughts and moisture.
There's also a range 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. 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 installing it to.
Last but not least, take into consideration the kind of opening mechanism your cat flap will use. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It will not stop other animals and cats from entering however, and you could be letting in drafts.
It's time to put in your cat flap. Start by marking the belly height on the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is sitting straight against the door and not too low. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, use a saw to cut out the door's outline. Once you are satisfied with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil markings to make holes for screws.
Make sure you have the tools ready
Like any DIY jobs, it's always best to have the right tools for the job. You'll need the cat flap along with tape measure and pencil along with a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the kind of door or window.
If you're installing in a composite door, it is recommended to consult with the manufacturer before making any alterations because this could cause the warranty to be invalidated or break the weathertight seal. In this scenario it's likely you'll need to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass.
You'll need to use a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. If possible, you can use a template to help you identify the size of the hole you'll have to cut.
After you've cut the required hole, you should then sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will help prevent future rust and water damage. It is also recommended to cover the holes in your door or window and the back of the flap to block wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry, 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 be helpful. Most people can install the flap by themselves. However should you wish to put it in the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you may need an expert.
Take a look at the instructions that came with your cat flap. You will find an illustration of the template. This will give an idea of where the holes are to be made for the flap on the door. Note the areas you'll need to drill into using the pencil.
After you have mapped out the door's area then use a jigsaw cut out the shape of the cat flap. It's a relatively easy task, but you'll need to be comfortable using the jigsaw. If you are worried about doing it yourself, there are many companies that can do this for you at a minimal cost.
The next step is to attach the interior part of the flap onto the hole in your door. It is possible to seal the flap prior to you do this to keep it weatherproof and watertight. Then, you can put the outer part of the cat flap on top of the fixing bolts, and tighten them all. You should test the flap on your cat to make sure that it functions properly and that it allows the cat to go in and out easily.