Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap your home is a great option for any pet owner. There are a variety of options for you, no matter if your cat is getting older and needs extra security, or you have kittens who need to be checked.
It can be difficult for those who aren't professionals to put in the cat flap, but with the proper guidelines, it's easy. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the keys.
Choose the Right Door or Window
There's a wide selection of cat flaps to choose from that come with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from leaving or entering) and others that have high-tech features such as microchip door entry systems. However, it's important to consider how easy your cat is to teach to use the flap prior to making a purchase and install one.
It's best to place the cat flap, based on the style of your house, in an opening that leads into a sheltered garden area. This will help your cat feel secure when entering or leaving your home. If possible this will also allow them a way back case they are pursued by a different cat or by a human intent on harming them.
It's possible to install a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as easy as putting one on a wooden door. It's because uPVC or composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses. This can affect the method of cutting holes, and the material you put to.
If you're installing the flap inside glass doors it is recommended that you seek out a glazier that is skilled in this kind of work to avoid costly errors. If you're installing the flap to an existing wooden door, you should introduce your cat to it first to make sure it is familiar with its dimensions and shape.
Find out the size of your cat's belly
You'll need the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap you choose to install is a good fit. This will ensure that the flap is the correct height on your door or window, and that it's large enough for them to enter and exit with ease.
To do this, put your pet on their back and gently rub your fingers along their belly. Look for a fat pad that is squishy around the lower back, face or limbs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline acrobatics.
You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you need. If your cat weighs up to 5kg, for instance the suggested flap opening size is 14x12cm.
Make sure you measure your windows or doors
This type of cat flap, as its name suggests is made to be fitted into a door. It allows your pet to move in and out at their 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 pushing lightly on either side. They are available with locking options that provide additional security which means that your cat can't traverse the door from outside.
A window is a common place to put a cat flap, and they're easy enough to put in, but they usually need to be located high enough as it's difficult for dogs and cats to access them. If the window isn't sufficient in height to be used as the flap for cats, you can make use of ramps, steps, or stairs that are specially designed to help the animal reach it.
It is possible to put a cat flap into brick walls, however it is not recommended for those who aren't experienced in the masonry industry. This could cause the wall to weaken. Before you begin, it is important to make sure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. Always consult an expert if you have to cut a hole in the wall for cables and pipes. It is also recommended to wear safety goggles and a dust protection mask to avoid inhaling any sawdust that is created by cutting holes in the walls of your house.
Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.
There are numerous cat flaps available on the market, and they come with various features. Some are equipped with security features like magnetic locks or microchips that prevent unauthorized entry and also stop your pet allowing guests or other animals to enter the home. Some have insulation as well as 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 circular or square. The best type of cat flap will be determined by the space available and the kind of window or door you are fitting it to.
Lastly, think about the opening mechanism that your cat flap will have. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. It won't stop other animals and cats from entering, and you could also let in draughts.
Once you have selected the appropriate cat flap and measured the window or door then it's time to install it. Mark the belly height of the door using a ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is 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, using a Jigsaw, cut 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 sure you have the tools ready
Like any DIY jobs, it's always best to have the appropriate tools to complete the task. The most important things you'll require are the cat flap itself as well as a tape measure, a good pencil, a spirit level, a file, drill and the Jigsaw (depending on your door or window type).
If you're installing a composite door, it is recommended to check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes as this may invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this case, you'll probably have to install a new pane of toughened glass instead.
For wooden or uPVC doors will require cutting out the design of your cat flap using a Jigsaw. Follow the directions that are provided by the manufacturer. Use window cat flap to determine the size of hole you require.
After you've cut the required hole, you should then smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This should prevent any rust or water damage from happening in the future. It is also recommended to cover the holes in your window or door and the back of the cat flap to block rain and wind. After the sealant has dried and dry, you can install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
Installing a flap allows your cat to go and come whenever it wishes. Most people can put in the flap themselves. However, if you want to install it in glass or uPVC type door, you might need an expert.
Take a look at the instructions that came with your cat flap. You will find a template drawing. This will give an idea of the location where the holes will be drilled to install the flap in the door. Mark the areas you will have to drill with a pencil.
After you have marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw and cut out the the cat flap. It is a relatively simple task, but you will need to be comfortable using the Jigsaw. If you are worried about doing it yourself, there are many businesses that can handle this for you at a low cost.
Then, attach the outer part of the door to the hole in your door. It is possible to seal the flap prior to you do this, in order to keep it waterproof and weatherproof. Then, you can put the outer section of the flap on top of the fixing bolts and tighten them all together. It is recommended to test the flap with your cat to make sure that it is working properly and that they can move easily through it.