Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in your home is a fantastic option for any pet owner. There are numerous options for you, whether your cat is old and needs extra security, or you have kittens that need to be checked.
Installing a cat flap can be a daunting task for novices, but, with the right instructions, it's not hard to accomplish. The most important thing is planning, preparation and precision.
Select 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 coming in) and others with advanced features such as microchip door entry systems. It's important to think about how easy it will be to teach your cat how to use the flap before you buy and install one.
Based on the style of your house, it's usually best to put the cat flap inside the form of a door or window that opens to an area that is protected from the garden so your cat is secure when entering and leaving the home. If possible it will also provide them a way back should they get pursued by a different cat or by humans intent to hurt 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 come in different thicknesses. This could affect the how holes are cut and the material you put into.
If you're installing the flap in a glass door it is recommended that you consult a glazier who specialises in such work to avoid costly errors. If you're fitting the flap on a wooden door, start by the cat with it prior to fitting it so that they can be familiar with its shape and size and explore it from all angles.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
It is important to know the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap you put in is a good fit. This will help you ensure that the flap is at the right height on your door or window and that it's big enough to allow them to get in and out easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers across their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back, face or legs. The extra padding offers your pet safety and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics that felines are famous for.
You can also make use of your pet's weight to determine the size of an opening you need. If your cat weighs up to 5kg, for instance the suggested flap opening size is 14 x 12cm.
Measure cat flap installation bristol or door
As the name suggests, this type of cat flap is designed to be fixed into a door and provides the pet with a way to leave or enter whenever it wants. These flaps are made of plastic or aluminum and sit in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that is opened by gently pushing on either side. The flaps are available in locking versions which provide extra security which means that your cat can't enter the door from outside.
replacement upvc door panel with cat flap are also commonly used in windows. They can be easily installed, but they have to be installed at a height where cats and dogs have a difficult time to reach them. If the window isn't sufficient in height to be used as a cat's flap, you can opt for ramps, steps or stairs that are specially designed to aid the animal in getting to it.
A cat flap can be incorporated to a brick wall, but it is not recommended unless you're experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the structure of the wall. It is essential to ensure that there aren't any cables and pipes within the wall before you start. If there are, a hole needs to be created for them and this is something that you should always seek professional advice on. Wearing protective glasses or a dust mask can ensure that you don't breathe in the sawdust created when you cut into your walls.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are a variety of cat flaps on the market and each one comes with different features. Some have security options like magnetic locks or microchips that prevent unauthorized entry and also prevent your pet from allowing friends or other animals into the house. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to keep out moisture and draughts.
There are different sizes available depending on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are circular or square. Choosing the right type of cat flap is determined by the space available and the kind of window or door you are fitting it to.
Also consider the opening mechanism that your cat flap will come with. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It won't stop other animals and cats from entering the room, and you could be letting in drafts.
Once you have selected the correct cat flap and measured the door or window and window, it's now time to put it in place it. Determine the belly height of the door using a ruler. Make use of a spirit-level to ensure that the line is not too low and is in line with the door. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, use a Jigsaw to cut the door's outline. Once you're happy with the result, sand the edges and then drill through the pencil marks to make holes for screws.
Prepare the Tools
It is essential to have the right tools for doing any DIY project. You'll need a cat flap as well as an eraser 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 broken. In this scenario, it's likely that you'll have to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.
For wooden or uPVC doors will require cutting out the design of your cat flap using a Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to determine the size of hole you need.
After you've cut the required hole, you should then sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will prevent any rust or water damage from happening in the near future. You should also seal the holes in your window or door and the back of the cat flap to prevent rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry it is time to install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
Installing a flap allows your cat to come and go whenever it wants. It's a simple procedure that most people can accomplish themselves, although you may require the help of an expert for installing the flap on an unglazed door or any other type of uPVC door.
Check out the directions that came with your cat flap. There is a drawing of the template. This will provide you with an idea of where holes for the flap have to be drilled into the door. Then, mark the areas where you have to drill using a pencil.
After you've marked the area in your door then use a jigsaw cut out the design of the cat flap. It's a relatively easy task, but you'll need to be comfortable with the jigsaw. Many companies will complete this work for you at a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to do it yourself.
The next step is to screw the inner part of the flap onto the hole in your door. It might be necessary to seal the flap before you do this in order to keep it weatherproof and watertight. You can then put the outer portion of the flap on top of the fixing bolts, and tighten them all. You should test the cat flap on your cat to confirm that it is working correctly and allows them to exit and enter easily.