Fitting a Cat Flap

Getting a cat flap fitted in to your home can be a huge step for any pet owner. There are many options available for you, whether your cat is getting older and requires extra security or you have kittens who need to be checked.
Installing a cat flap may 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.
Choose the Right Door, or Window
There are a variety of cat flaps that are available including some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet going out or entering) and others that have high-tech features such as microchip door entry systems. But, it's important to think about how easy it is for your cat to teach to use the flap before you purchase and install one.
Depending on the design of your home, it's generally best to put the cat flap inside an opening or window that opens to an area that is protected from the garden, so that your cat will feel secure entering and leaving the home. This will also allow them to get back inside if they're chased by other animals or human who wants to hurt them.
It is possible to install the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as easy as putting one on a wooden door. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in different thicknesses. This can affect the method of cutting holes, and the material you put to.
If you're installing the flap in the glass of a door it is recommended to consult a glazier who specialises in this kind of work to avoid costly mistakes. If you're fitting the flap in a wooden door, start by introducing your cat to it before you fit it to allow them to become familiar with its shape and size and explore it from all angles.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
To install an appropriate cat flap that is a good fit for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat's size. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is at the correct height on your door or window, and that it's large enough to allow them to enter and out easily.
To do this, place your pet on their back and gently rub your fingers across their belly. Look for window cat flap that are squishy which may be visible around their lower back, face and legs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline acrobatics.
Alternatively, you can also make use of your pet's weight to gauge how big an opening you'll need. If your cat weighs 5Kg, for example, the suggested cat flap opening size is 14 x 12cm.
Measure Your Door or Window
This type of cat flap, as its name suggests is made to be fitted into the door. It allows your pet to be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. They are typically made of aluminum or plastic and sit in the centre of the door. They come with a two-way swinging door that opens by pushing lightly on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps that provide extra security, so your cat isn't able to enter the door from the outside.
A window is another popular location for a cat's flap, and they're easy enough to fit, although they often need to be located high enough as it's difficult for dogs and cats to reach them otherwise. If the window is too high to use a cat flap then ramps, steps or specially built stairs can be utilized to help the animal access it.
Cat flaps 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 wall's structure. Before you begin, it is important to ensure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. It is recommended to consult a professional if you need to make a hole for cables and pipes. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask will ensure that you don't breathe in the sawdust that is created when you cut into your walls.
Choose the right cat flap
There are numerous cat flaps available and they all have various features. Some cat flaps have security features like microchip recognition or magnetic locks that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also keep your pet from allowing friends or animals to enter the home. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals that keep out water and drafts.
There are also different sizes to choose from based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are available in rectangular shapes, while others are circular or square. The type of cat flap you select will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the type of window or door you're installing it to.
Also consider the opening mechanism that your cat flap will have. A simple aluminium or plastic swing-out door is an choice and is typically the least expensive. It will not stop other cats and pets from entering, and you could also be letting in drafts.
After you've chosen the appropriate cat flap and measured the window or door, it's time to fit it. Start by marking the height of the belly on the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is straight against the door and not too low. Create a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Next, use your saw to cut out the outline of the door. When you're happy with the results sand down the edges and then drill through the pencil lines to make holes for the screws.
Make the Tools
It's essential to have the right tools available when performing any DIY project. The most important things you'll require are the cat flap along with a tape measure, a decent pencil and a spirit level drill, file and an jigsaw (depending on your windows or doors).
If you're installing in a composite door, you should consult with the manufacturer before making any changes, as this may cause the warranty to be invalidated or break the weathertight seal. In this instance, you'll probably need to fit an additional pane of toughened glass instead.
For wooden or uPVC doors, you'll need to cut out the shape of your cat flap using the Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines provided by the manufacturer. If possible, you can use a template to help you mark out the dimensions of the hole you'll need to cut.
After you've made the hole, you'll need to smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop any water damage or rust from happening in the future. You should also seal the holes in your door or window and the back of the flap to keep out rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry and dry, 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 do themselves, although you will likely require the help of an expert if you're installing the flap on the form of a glass door or another type of uPVC door.
Begin by studying the instructions provided with your cat flap to find the drawing template. This will give an idea of the location where holes need to be drilled for the flap on the door. Then, mark the areas that you'll have to drill using a pencil.
After you have marked the door on your door, you can use the jigsaw and cut out the the cat flap. This is a relatively simple job, but you'll need to be comfortable using a saw. Many companies will complete this task for you for a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to do it yourself.
Next, you will need to screw the inner part of the cat flap to the door's hole. It may be necessary to seal the flap before you do this, in order to keep it weatherproof and watertight. Then, you can put the outer portion of the cat flap on top of the fixing bolts, and tighten the bolts all together. You should test the cat flap on your cat to confirm that it functions properly and that it allows them to exit and enter easily.