Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in your home is a fantastic step for any pet owner. There are many options available for you, whether your cat is old and requires additional security or if you have kittens who need to be checked.
Installing a cat flap can be a daunting task for novices, but with the right instructions, it's not difficult to do. Planning, preparation and precision are the most important factors.
Choose the Right Door or Window
There are a variety of cat flaps that are available, some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from leaving or entering) and others with high-tech features like microchip door entry systems. It's important to think about how it is easy to teach your cat how to use the flap before you buy and install one.
It's best to place the cat flap, based on the style of your home, in the form of a window that opens to a sheltered garden area. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering and leaving your home. If you can it will also provide them a way back case they are pursued by a different cat or by a human intent to harm them.
It is possible to install an egress flap inside the form of a uPVC door or a glass window, but it's not as straightforward as fitting one into the door made of wood. cat flap fitting near me is because uPVC or composite doors come in various thicknesses. This could affect the way holes are cut, and what you fix to.
If you're installing the flap on a glass door it is recommended that you seek out a glazier that is skilled in this type of work to avoid costly errors. If you are fitting the flap onto the door made of wood it is recommended that you introduce your cat to it first to ensure that it becomes familiar with its dimensions and shape.
Find out the size of your cat's belly
In order to put in the right cat flap that's suitable for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat's size. This will ensure that the flap is at the right height for your door or window and that it's big enough for them to enter and exit easily.
To do this, lay your pet on their back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back and face, as well as the legs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline circus skills.
You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you require. If your cat is up to 5Kg in weight for instance, a 14 x 12cm cat flap opening is recommended.
Take a measurement of your windows or doors
The name implies, this type of cat flap is designed to be affixed to an opening and provide a way for your pet to leave or enter as it pleases. These flaps are made of plastic or aluminum and are located in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that is opened by gently pushing on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps, which provide additional security to ensure that your cat can't simply walk through from the outside.
Cat flaps are also frequently used in windows. They are easy to be installed, but they have to be placed at a height where cats and dogs find it difficult to reach them. If the window isn't sufficient in height to be used as a cat's flap, then you can opt for steps, ramps or stairs that are specially designed to help the animal reach it.
It is possible to install an egress into a brickwall, but it is not recommended for those who aren't familiar with masonry. This could weaken the wall's structure. It is essential to ensure that there aren't any cables and pipes within the wall before you begin. If they are, an opening must be created for them and this is something that you should always seek professional advice on. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask can allow you to avoid breathing in the dust that is generated when you cut into your walls.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are numerous cat flaps that are available on the market, and come with various features. Some flaps are equipped with security features, such as microchip recognition or magnetic locks that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also keep your pet from allowing friends or another animal into the home. Some have weatherproof seals and insulation to block out moisture and draughts.
There's also a variety of sizes, based on the size and breed of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, while others are square or circular. Choosing the right type of cat flap will be dictated by the space available as well as the type of door or window you are fitting it to.
Finally, think about the mechanism for opening your cat flap will have. A simple aluminum or plastic swing-out door is an alternative and is usually the least expensive. However, it will not stop other pets or cats from entering and you may let draughts through too.
Once you have selected the right cat flap and measured your 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 the line is not too low and is straight on the door. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, using a saw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you are satisfied with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil markings 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, a spirit-level, a drill and a jigsaw depending on the kind of window or door.
Contact the manufacturer prior to making any modifications 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, you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap using the jigsaw and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. If possible, use an example to identify the dimensions of the hole you have to cut.
After you've cut the required hole, you should then sand down the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop the possibility of water damage and rust. You should also cover the holes in your window or door and the back of the cat flap to prevent rain and wind. Once the sealant has dried then you can put up your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to move around whenever it wants, installing a flap can help. Most people can put in the flap themselves. However when you plan to install it on glass or uPVC type door, you might need an expert.
Begin by studying the instructions that come with your cat flap to find the template. This will provide you with an idea of where the holes for the flap need to be drilled into the door. Then, mark the areas in which you will must drill using pencil.
After you've marked the area on your door, you can use the jigsaw and cut out the design for the cat flap. It is a relatively simple job, but you'll need to be comfortable using the Jigsaw. If you are worried about doing this yourself, there are plenty of businesses that can handle this for you at a low cost.
Then, screw the inner part to the hole in your door. It may be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this in order to ensure it is waterproof and weatherproof. The outer part of your cat flap may be placed on top of the bolts, and then tightened together. You must test the cat flap on your cat to confirm that it is working correctly and that it allows the cat to go in and out easily.