Fitting a Cat Flap

Getting a cat flap fitted in to your home can be a big step for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and needs extra security or you have new kittens who require a vet check There are plenty of options out there for you.
It can be intimidating for people who aren't experts in installing a cat flap, but with proper guidelines, it's easy. Preparation, planning and precision are the keys.
Choose 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 going out or entering) and others with high-tech features such as microchip door entry systems. It is important to think about how easy it will be to teach your cat how to use the flap, before you purchase and install one.
Based on the style of your home, it's usually best to put the cat flap inside the form of a door or window that opens out into a sheltered area of the garden so that your cat will feel secure leaving and entering the home. If possible it will also provide them a way back case they are chased by another cat or by humans intent to hurt them.
You can put the cat flap on the form of a uPVC door or a glass window however it's not as easy as putting one in the door made of wood. It's because uPVC or composite doors are available in a variety of thicknesses. This could affect the way holes are cut, and the type of door you can fix into.
To avoid costly errors to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended to consult a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If you're fitting the flap to an existing wooden door, you should introduce your cat first to make sure it is familiar with its dimensions and shape.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
To install a cat flap that's the right size for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat's size. This will allow you to make sure that the flap is placed at the correct height on the window or door, and that it is large enough for him to enter and exit easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers over their belly. Look for a fat pad that is squishy around the lower back and face, as well as the limbs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline Acrobatics.
You can also use the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you require. If your cat weighs up to 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 enter and exit at its convenience. The flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and sit in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that opens by gently pressing on either side. They are available with locking options that offer added security, so your cat cannot simply enter the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also often used in windows. They can be easily installed, however they have to be installed at a high level as cats and dogs find it difficult to access them. If the window is too high for a cat flap, ramps, steps or specially constructed stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it.
It is possible to install the cat flap onto the brick wall, however it is not recommended for people who are not experienced in brickwork. This could weaken the wall's structure. It is essential to ensure that there aren't any cables or pipes in the wall prior to you start. If they are, there must be a hole made for them. This is something you should always seek professional advice on. It is also recommended to wear safety goggles and a dust mask to avoid breathing in any sawdust generated by cutting through the walls of your home.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are numerous cat flaps on the market and each one comes with different features. Certain cat flaps come with security features such as microchip recognition or magnetic locks that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also stop your pet from allowing friends or other animals into the home. Some have weatherproof seals and insulation to keep out moisture and draughts.
There are 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. Choosing the right type of cat flap will be determined by the space you have available and the type of door or window you want to attach it to.
Last but not least, think about the opening mechanism your cat flap will use. A simple aluminium or plastic swing-out door is one option and is usually the cheapest. It won't stop other cats and pets from entering, and you could also be letting in drafts.
After you've chosen the correct cat flap and measured your door or window and window, it's now time to put it in place it. Make a mark on the belly of the door with 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 guide. Next, use your Jigsaw to cut the door's outline. Once you're happy with the results sand down the edges and drill through the pencil marks to create holes for the screws.
Prepare the Tools
It is essential to have the right tools for performing any DIY project. You'll need a cat flap, an eraser 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 in a composite door, consult with the manufacturer prior to making any changes because this could cause the warranty to be invalidated or break the weathertight seal. In this case you'll likely need to fit an additional pane of toughened glass instead.
For wooden or uPVC doors, you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap using a Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines given by the manufacturer. If you can, use an example to determine the size of the hole you will need to cut.
After you've made the hole, you'll have to sand the edges of the opening. This will prevent the possibility of water damage and rust. In the end, you must apply any sealant that is needed to the rear of the cat flap, and to the holes in the window or door to block the elements of wind and rain. Once the sealant has dried, you can install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
The installation of a flap will allow your cat to come and go whenever it pleases. Most people can put in the flap themselves. However should you wish to install it in glass or uPVC type door, you may require a professional.
Take a look at the instructions included with your cat flap. There is a drawing of the template. This will give you an idea of where the holes for the flap have to be drilled into the door. Note the areas you'll need to drill in using a pencil.
After you have mapped out the door's opening then use a jigsaw cut out the shape of the cat flap. It is a relatively simple task, but you'll have to be comfortable using the jigsaw. replacement upvc door panel with cat flap will complete this for you for a reasonable price If you're not sure how to take on the task yourself.
Next, you will need to attach the inside of the cat flap to the door's hole. It is possible to seal the flap prior to you do this to keep it weatherproof and watertight. The outside of your cat flap may be placed on the bolts' tops and then securing them. It is recommended to test the cat flap with your cat to make sure that it functions properly and that they can get in and out of it.