Fitting a Cat Flap

Getting a cat flap fitted in to your home can be a major step for any pet owner. There are many options available for you, whether your cat is old and needs extra security, or you have kittens that require to be examined.
It can be a bit daunting for non-professionals to install the cat flap, but with right instructions it's easy. The most important thing is planning, preparation and precision.
Select the Right Door or Windows
There are a variety of cat flaps, some with locks that can be used to prevent your pet from going out or inside, and others that have advanced features like microchips for door entry systems. It is important to think about how easy your cat is to train to use the flap before you purchase and install one.
Depending on the style of your home, it's generally best to situate the cat flap inside the form of a door or window that opens onto an area that is protected from the garden so your cat can feel safe when leaving and entering the home. This will also enable them to get back inside in the event of being chased by other animals or human who wants to hurt them.
It's possible to put a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it's not as easy as putting one into a wood door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors come in various thicknesses, which can affect the way holes are cut and what you're fixing into.
If you're installing the flap in a glass door it is recommended to seek out a glazier that is skilled in this type of work to avoid any costly errors. If you're installing the flap to a wooden door it is recommended that you introduce your cat first to make sure it is familiar with its dimensions and shape.
Find out the size of your cat's belly
You'll need your cat's measurements to make sure that the cat flap you choose to install is a perfect fit. This will help you ensure that the flap is the right height for your door or window, and that it's big enough to allow them to enter and exit easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers across their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back and face, as well as the limbs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline acrobatics.
You can also use the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you need. If your cat is at or over 5kg for instance, a 14 x 12cm cat flap opening is recommended.
Measure your windows or doors
The name implies this kind of cat flap is made to be attached to an opening and provide an opportunity for your pet to go in or out at any time it wishes. They are usually made of plastic or aluminium and simply rest in the middle of the door. They come with the possibility of a swinging door that opens by pressing lightly on either side. There are locks on some of these flaps that provide added security so your cat can't simply enter the door from the outside.
Cat flaps are also frequently used on windows. They can be easily installed, however they have to be installed at an elevated level since cats and dogs have a difficult time to access them. If the window isn't high enough to use the flap for cats, you can use ramps, steps or specially designed stairs to aid the animal in getting to it.
It is possible to install a cat flap into brick walls, however it is not recommended for people who aren't familiar with masonry. This could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it's important to make sure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. You should always consult an expert when you need to create a hole for pipes and cables. It is also recommended to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust-proof mask to avoid breathing in any sawdust generated by cutting into the walls of your house.
Choose the right cat flap
There are many cat flaps on the market, and have different features. Some flaps are equipped with security features such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. cat flap installer near me prevent your pet from allowing friends or other animals into the home. Some have weatherproof seals and insulation to keep out the elements and keep out drafts.
There's also a variety of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, whereas others are square or circular. Choosing the right 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.
Finally consider the opening mechanism that your cat flap will have. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. But, it will not keep other animals or cats from entering your home and you could let draughts in as well.
After you've chosen the right cat flap and measured your windows or doors, it's time to fit it. Begin by marking the belly's height on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit-level to ensure that the line isn't too low and is straight on the door. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, using the Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. When you're happy with the results sand down the edges and drill through the pencil lines to create holes for the screws.
Make the Tools
It's essential to have the right tools when doing any DIY project. You'll require the cat flap along with a pencil and tape measure as well as a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the type of window or door.
If you're installing a composite door, consult with the manufacturer before making any changes, because this could invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this case it's likely that you will need to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass.
You'll require an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions given by the manufacturer. If possible, use a template to help you identify the size of the hole you'll need to cut.
After you've cut the required hole, you should then sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This should prevent any water damage or rust from happening in the near future. You should also seal the holes in your window or door and the side of the flap to prevent wind and rain. After the sealant has dried and dry, you can install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to come and go whenever it wants, installing a flap can help. It's a simple procedure that most people can accomplish themselves, although you may need to hire an expert if you're installing the flap in the form of a glass door or another type of uPVC door.
Begin by studying the instructions that come with your cat flap to find the template drawing. This will give you an idea of where holes for the flap will need to be drilled in the door. Then, mark the places in which you will need to drill with a pencil.
Once you have marked out the door's area then use a jigsaw cut out the design of the cat flap. It's a relatively easy task, but you'll need to be comfortable with the jigsaw. If you are worried about doing it yourself, there are plenty of companies that can do this for you at a very low cost.
The next step is to screw the inner part of the flap onto the door's hole. You may need to seal it prior to doing this to ensure that it is weather and water resistant. The outer section of your cat flap could be placed on the bolts' tops and then tightened together. It is recommended to test the flap using your cat to ensure that it works correctly and that they can enter and leave easily through it.