Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap inside your home can be a huge step for any pet owner. There are a variety of options for you, whether your cat is old and needs extra security or if you have kittens who need to be examined.
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 available including some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet going out or entering) and others with advanced features like microchip door entry systems. However, it's important to consider how easy your cat is to teach to use the flap before you purchase and fit one.
It's best to place the cat flap, depending on the design of your house, in a window that opens into a sheltered garden area. glass cat flap installation near me will allow your cat to feel safe when entering or leaving your home. If you can, this will also give them a route back in case they are chased by another 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 the same as fitting one on a wooden door. It's because uPVC or composite doors are available in a variety of thicknesses. This can impact the way holes are cut, and the type of door you can fix into.
To avoid costly mistakes to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended that you consult a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a door with a glass front. If you are fitting the flap to an existing wooden door it is recommended that you introduce your cat to it first to make sure it is familiar with its size and shape.
Find out the size of your cat's belly
To install the right cat flap that's suitable for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's height. This will help you ensure that your cat flap is at the correct height on the window or door, and that it's big enough for him to enter and exit easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers over their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back and face, as well as the limbs. The padding provides your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics felines are famous for.
Alternatively, you can also use your pet's weight to determine the size of the opening you require. If your cat weighs at or over 5kg for instance that's a 14x12cm flap for your cat is recommended.
Make sure you measure your door or window
This type of cat flap, as the name suggests, is made to be fitted into a door. It lets your pet be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. They are usually made from aluminum or plastic and sit in the centre of the door with an open door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps that provide additional security to ensure that your cat won't be able to simply enter the door from the outside.
Cat flaps are also frequently used on windows. They are easy to be installed, but they have to be set at a height where cats and dogs find it difficult to access them. If the window is too high to be used as a cat flap, steps, ramps or purpose constructed stairs can be used to aid the animal in accessing it.
It is possible to put an egress into brick walls, however it is not recommended for people who are not experienced in brickwork. This could cause the wall to weaken. It is important to make sure there are no cables and pipes inside the wall before you start. If there are, then a hole needs to be created for them and this is something you should always seek professional advice on. It is also recommended to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust protection mask to avoid breathing in any of the sawdust created by cutting through your home's walls.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are a variety of cat flaps available and each one comes with different features. Some are equipped with security features like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that stop unauthorized entry and restrict your pet from letting guests or other animals to enter the home. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to block the elements of moisture and draughts.
There is also a choice of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular while others are square or circular. Selecting the best cat flap will be dictated by the space you have available as well as the type of window or door you want to attach it to.
The last thing to do is think about the opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. A simple aluminium or plastic swing-out door is one option and is usually the least expensive. But, it will not prevent other cats or pets from gaining access and you could let draughts through as well.
It's time to put in your cat flap. Begin by marking the belly height on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is sitting straight against the door and not too low. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, use a jigsaw to cut out the outline in the door. When you're happy with the results sand down the edges and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.
Prepare the Tools
It is essential to have the right tools when undertaking any DIY project. You'll need a cat flap along with a pencil and tape measure as well as a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the kind of window or door.
Consult the manufacturer before making any changes to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to be damaged. In this instance it's likely you will need to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.
You'll need a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines given by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to mark the size hole you require.
After you've made the hole, you will need to sand the edges of the opening. This will help prevent the possibility of water damage and rust. It is also recommended to cover the holes in your window or door and the back of the cat flap to keep out rain and wind. When the sealant has dried and dry, you can install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
Fitting a flap will allow your cat to move around whenever it pleases. back door with cat flap fitted of people can install the flap by themselves. However when you plan to install it on a glass or uPVC type door, you might need a professional.
Start by looking at the instructions provided with the flap to locate the template. This will give you an idea of where the holes are to be drilled for the flap on the door. Then, mark the places in which you will have to drill using pencil.
After you have marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw to cut the shape for the cat flap. It's a relatively easy job, but you'll need to be comfortable using a jigsaw. If you are concerned about doing it yourself, there are a lot of companies that can complete this for you at a low cost.
The next step is to attach the interior part of the cat flap to the door's hole. It is possible to seal the flap prior to you do this to ensure it is waterproof and weatherproof. The outer section of your cat flap can be placed on the bolts on top, and then tacked together. 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.