Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in your home is a fantastic option for any pet owner. There are numerous options to you, regardless of whether your cat is getting older and requires extra security or you have kittens that require to be examined.
Installing a cat flap can be intimidating for people who aren't professionals, however, with the proper instructions, it's not difficult to complete. Preparation, planning and precision are the most important factors.
Select the Right Door or Window
There's a wide selection of cat flaps to choose from including some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from going out or coming in) and others with high-tech features such as microchip door entry systems. However, it's important to think about how easy your cat is to teach to use the flap prior to making a purchase and install one.
Depending on the design of your house It is recommended to situate the cat flap in an opening or window that opens out into an area that is protected from the garden so your cat can feel safe when going into and out of the house. If possible, this will also give them a route back in should they get pursued by a different cat or by humans who are intent to harm them.
You can install an egress flap inside the case of a uPVC door or a glass window however, it's not as simple as putting one in the door made of wood. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in various thicknesses. This can affect the way holes are cut, and the type of door you can fix to.
To avoid costly mistakes It is recommended to consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a door with a glass front. If you are fitting the flap into a wooden door it is recommended that you introduce your cat to it at first to make sure it is familiar with its dimensions and shape.
Find out the size of your cat's belly
In order to install an appropriate cat flap that is suitable for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is at the right height on your door or window and that it's large enough to allow them to enter and out easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers across their belly. Look for any fat pads that are squishy - these may be visible around their lower back, face or limbs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline circus skills.
Alternately, you could use your pet's weight to determine the size of the opening you require. If your cat is at or above 5kg in weight for instance an opening of 14 x 12cm flap for the cat is advised.
Measure Your Door or Window
Like the name suggests, this type of cat flap is made to be attached to the door, and offers the pet with a way to enter or leave as it pleases. These flaps are constructed of aluminum or plastic and sit in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that can be opened by gently pressing on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps that provide added security so your cat isn't able to traverse through the door from outside.
A window is another common location for a cat flap, and they're easy enough to fit, although they often need to be set up high as it is difficult for dogs and cats to access them. If the window isn't sufficient to accommodate the flap for cats, you can opt for ramps, steps, or specially designed stairs to assist the animal in reaching it.
It is possible to insert a cat flap into the brick wall, however it is not recommended for people who aren't experienced in the masonry industry. This could weaken the wall's structure. It's important to check that there are no cables and pipes in the wall prior to you start. You should always consult an expert when you need to make a hole for pipes or cables. It's also advisable to wear protective goggles and a dust-proof mask to avoid breathing in any of the sawdust created by cutting into your home's walls.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are numerous cat flaps that are available on the market, and they have various features. Some come with security options such as magnetic locks or microchips that prevent unauthorized entry and also prevent your pet from allowing pets or friends into the home. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals that keep out the elements of moisture and draughts.
There are also different sizes available depending on the breed and size of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, whereas others are square or circular. The best type of cat flap is determined by the space you have available as well as the type of door or window you intend to install it on.
Also think about the opening mechanism that your cat flap will have. The cheapest option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It will not stop other cats and pets from entering however, 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 is straight on the door. Utilize your spirit level to draw a template of the cat flap. Then, using a saw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you are satisfied with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.
Make the Tools
As with all DIY tasks, it's best to have the right tools for the job. The most essential things you'll need are the cat flap itself as well as a tape measure, a decent pencil, a spirit level, a file, drill and a Jigsaw (depending on your window or door type).
Check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a door made of composite. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal broken. In this case it's likely that you'll have to replace the glass with a brand new piece of toughened glass.
For wooden or uPVC doors you'll need to cut out the shape of your cat flap using the Jigsaw. Follow the directions that are provided by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to mark the size hole you require.
After you've cut the required hole, you'll need to sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This should prevent any rust or water damage from happening in the future. You should also seal the holes in your window or door and the back of the flap to prevent wind and rain. After the sealant has dried, you can install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to move around as it pleases, fitting flaps can be helpful. This is a simple process that most people can accomplish by themselves, though you'll likely require the help of an expert for installing the flap on an unglazed door or any other type of uPVC door.
Check out the directions that came with your cat flap. There is 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 using pencil.
After cat flap fitters near me have marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw and cut out the shape for the cat flap. It's a relatively easy job however you'll need be comfortable with a Jigsaw. If you're worried about doing it yourself, there are many companies that can complete this for you at a minimal cost.
Then, you can screw the inside part to the hole in your door. You may need to apply sealant before making this move to ensure it stays watertight and weather resistant. The outside of your cat flap could be placed on the bolts on top, and then tightened together. You should test the flap on your cat to make sure that it's working properly and allows them to exit and enter easily.