Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is a great step for any pet owner. There are many options available for you, no matter if your cat is getting older and requires additional security or if you have kittens that need to be checked.
It can be difficult for non-professionals to install an animal flap, but with right instructions it's easy. Preparation, planning and precision are the key to success.
Select the Right Door or Window
There are many different types of cat flaps, some with locks that can be used to keep your pet from leaving or in, while others have high tech features like microchip door entry systems. It's important to think about how easy it will be to teach your cat to use the flap before you buy and install one.
Depending on the design of your home, it's generally best to put the cat flap near a window or door that opens onto an area that is protected from the garden, so that your cat is secure when entering and leaving the home. This will also allow them to go back inside if they're chased by another animal or human beings who wish to hurt them.
You can install the cat flap on the case of a uPVC door or glass window, but it's not as simple as putting one in the door made of wood. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses, and this can impact the way holes are cut as well as what you're fixing into.
If you're installing the flap in glass doors it is recommended that you seek out a glazier that is skilled in such work to avoid any costly errors. If you're fitting the flap to a wooden door, start by introducing your cat to it prior to fitting it to allow them to be familiar with its size and shape and explore it from every angle.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
In order to put in the right cat flap that's a good fit for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat. This will allow you to make sure that the flap is placed at the right height on the door or window, and that it is large enough for him to enter and out easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Look for any squishy fat pads which may be visible around their lower back, face, and limbs. The extra padding offers your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics that felines are famous for.
You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you require. If your cat is at or over 5kg for instance, a 14 x 12cm flap for the cat is recommended.
Make sure you measure your door or window
Like the name suggests the cat flap is made to be attached to a door and provides the pet with a way to go in or out as it pleases. They are usually made from aluminum or plastic and sit in the centre of the door with an open door that opens by pressing lightly on either side. The flaps can be locked which provide extra security which means that your cat can't walk through the door from outside.
A window is another common location for a cat's flap and these are 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 is not sufficient in height to be used as the flap for cats, you can opt for steps, ramps or stairs that are specially designed to help the animal reach it.
A cat flap could be installed into a brick wall but it is not recommended unless you're experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it is important to make sure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. If they are, an opening must be created for them and this is something that you should always seek expert advice on. It's also advisable to wear safety goggles and a dust protection mask to prevent inhaling any of the sawdust created by cutting through your home's walls.
Select cat flap installation
There are many different cat flaps available and they all 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. They also keep your pet from letting friends or other animals into the home. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to keep out moisture and draughts.
There are also different sizes to choose from based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are square or circular. Choosing the right type of cat flap is determined by the space available and the kind of door or window you are fitting it to.
Also consider the mechanism to open your cat flap will come with. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is a good option and is usually the cheapest. It won't stop other animals and cats from entering however, and you could be letting in draughts.
It's time to put in your cat flap. Determine the belly height of the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is sitting straight on the door and not too low. Use your spirit level to draw a template of the flap for cats. Then, fitting a cat flap can use your saw to cut out the door's outline. Once you're happy with the result, sand the edges and drill through the pencil lines to create holes for the screws.
Make the Tools
It is essential to have the right tools available when undertaking any DIY project. You'll need the cat flap along with an eraser and tape measure along with 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 prior to making any changes, since this could cause the warranty to be invalidated or break the weathertight seal. In this instance it's likely that you'll need to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.
For wooden or uPVC doors, you'll need to cut out the shape of your cat flap using the Jigsaw. Follow the directions given by the manufacturer. If possible, use an outline to help mark out the size of the hole you'll will need to cut.
After you've cut the required hole, you must sand down the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop any water damage or rust from happening in the future. It is also recommended to seal the holes in your window or door and the side of the flap to block rain and wind. After the sealant has dried it is time to install your cat flap!
Install the Flap
Fitting a flap will allow your cat to go and come whenever it pleases. Most people can put in the flap themselves. However, if you want to install it on a glass or uPVC type door, you may need an expert.
Check out the directions that came with the cat flap. There is an illustration of the template. This will give you an idea of where holes need to be drilled to install the flap in the door. Mark the areas that you'll must drill using the pencil.
After you have marked the door on your door, use the jigsaw to cut the shape for the cat flap. It's a relatively easy task however, you'll need to be comfortable with a saw. If you are worried about doing this yourself, there are plenty of companies that can complete this for you at a minimal cost.
Then, you can screw the inside part to the hole in your door. You may need to apply sealant prior to doing this to ensure that it remains weather-proof and water resistant. The outer part 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 make sure that it is working properly and that they are able to enter and leave easily through it.