Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is an excellent option for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and requires extra security, or you have a new kitten that need to be vetted there are plenty of options out there to choose from.
Installing a cat flap could be intimidating for people who aren't professionals, however, with the proper instructions, it's not hard to complete. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and accuracy.
Choose the Right Door or Windows
There are many different types of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to stop your pet from leaving or in and others with high tech features like microchip door entry systems. It is important to think about how it is easy to teach your cat to use the flap, before you buy and install one.
It's best to place the cat flap, depending on the style of your house, in a window that opens into a garden that is sheltered. This will allow your cat to feel safe when entering or leaving your home. This will also allow them to return inside if they're chased by other animals or humans who want to harm them.
It's possible to install a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as simple as installing one on a wooden door. This is because uPVC and composite doors come in various thicknesses, and this can impact the way holes are cut and the materials you're fixing them to.
If you're installing the flap on a glass door it is recommended that you consult a glazier who specialises in this kind of work to avoid costly mistakes. If you're installing the flap into a wooden door it is recommended that you introduce your cat to it first to ensure that it becomes familiar with its size and shape.
Find out the size of your cat's belly
You'll need the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you choose to install is a perfect fit. This will help you ensure that your cat flap is placed at the right height on the door or window, and that it is large enough for him to enter and exit easily.
To do this, lay your pet on their back and run your fingers gently along their belly. Check for any fat pads that are squishy - these may be visible around their lower back, face and legs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline Acrobatics.
You can also make use of your pet's weight to gauge how big an opening you require. If your cat weighs at or over 5kg for instance an opening of 14 x 12cm cat flap opening is advised.
Take a measurement of your door or window
The name implies this kind of cat flap is designed to be fixed into the door, and offers the pet with a way to go in or out whenever it wants. The flaps are made of plastic or aluminum and are placed in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that opens by gently pressing on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps that offer extra security, so your cat won't be able to simply walk through from the outside.
Cat flaps are also frequently employed in windows. They can be easily installed, but they have to be installed at a height where cats and dogs find it difficult to access them. If the window is not sufficient in height to be used as a cat's flap, you can use steps, ramps or stairs that are specially designed to aid the animal in getting to it.
Cat flaps can also be fitted into a brick wall, however it is not recommended unless familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the structure of the wall. It is essential to ensure that there aren't any cables and pipes in the wall prior to you start. If there are, then a hole needs to be made for them. This is something that you should always seek professional advice on. It's also advisable to wear safety goggles and a dust-proof mask to avoid inhaling any of the sawdust created by cutting holes in the walls of your home.
Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.
There are numerous cat flaps on the market and all of them offer 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 house. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to keep out draughts and moisture.
There are various sizes that are available based on the size and breed of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, while others are circular or square. The kind of cat flap you pick will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the type of window or door you're fitting it to.
Last but not least, consider the type of opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. The cheapest option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It will not stop other cats and pets from entering the room, and you could be letting in draughts.
It's time to install your cat flap. Begin by marking the height of the belly on the door with a ruler. Make use of a spirit-level to ensure that the line isn't too low and is in line with the door. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, use a saw to cut out the door's outline. Once how much to install a cat flap are satisfied with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil marks to create holes for screws.
Make sure you have the tools ready
It is essential to have the right tools available when doing 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 kind of door or window.
If you're installing in a composite door, you should consult with the manufacturer before making any changes, since this could invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this instance you'll likely require an entirely new pane of toughened glass instead.
For wooden or uPVC doors will require cutting out the shape of your cat flap using a jigsaw and follow the instructions given by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to mark the size hole you need.
After you've cut the required hole, you'll need to smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will prevent any water damage or rust from occurring in the future. Finally, you should apply any sealant you require to the rear of the cat flap as well as to the holes in the window or door to keep out the elements of wind and rain. 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 come and go whenever it wants. This is a simple process that most people can accomplish on their own, but you may require the assistance of an expert for installing the flap in an unglazed door or any other kind of uPVC door.
Take a look at the instructions that came with your cat flap. You will find a drawing of the template. This will provide you with an idea of where the holes for the flap have to be made in the door. Mark the areas in which you will need to drill with a pencil.
Once you have marked out the door's opening, use a jigsaw to cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a relatively easy job, but you'll have to be comfortable using the saw. If you are worried about doing it yourself, there are many companies that can complete this for you at a very low cost.
Then, attach the outer part of the door to the hole in your door. It may be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this to keep it weatherproof and watertight. You can then place the outer section of the flap on top of the fixing bolts, and tighten them all. You must test the cat flap on your cat to confirm that it's working properly and allows them to exit and enter easily.