Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is a fantastic option for any pet owner. There are numerous options to you, regardless of whether your cat is old and requires additional security or you have kittens that require to be checked.
Installing a cat flap could be daunting for non-professionals but with the right instructions, it's easy to accomplish. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the most important factors.
Select the Right Door or Window
There's a wide selection of cat flaps available, some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from leaving or entering) and others that have high-tech features such as microchips for door entry systems. It is important to consider how easy it will be to teach your cat how to use the flap before you buy and install one.
It is recommended to put the cat flap, based on the style of your house, in an opening that leads into a garden that is sheltered. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering or leaving your home. This will also enable them to return inside in the event of being chased by other animals or humans who want to harm them.
It is possible to install an egress flap inside the case of a uPVC door or a glass window however, it's not as easy as putting one in the door made of wood. This is because uPVC and composite doors are available in different thicknesses, which affect the way holes are cut and the material you're fixing it into.
If you're installing the flap on a glass door, it's recommended that you consult a glazier who specialises in such work to avoid costly errors. If you're installing the flap into a wooden door you must introduce your cat first so that it can become familiar with its dimensions and shape.
Find out the size of your cat's belly
In order to install a cat flap that's a good fit for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat's size. This will allow you to ensure that the cat flap is placed at the right height on the door or window and that it is large enough to allow him to enter and leave easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back or face, or around the legs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline Acrobatics.
Alternatively, you can also make use of your pet's weight to gauge how big an opening you'll need. If your cat weighs 5Kg, for example the suggested flap opening size is 14x12cm.
Make sure you measure your door or window
This kind of cat flap, as its name suggests is made to be fitted into the door. It allows your pet to move in and out at their convenience. They are usually made of aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door. They come with a two-way swinging door that opens by pressing lightly on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps, which provide extra security, so your cat isn't able to enter the door from the outside.
Cat flaps are also commonly employed in windows. They can be easily installed, but they have to be placed at a height where cats and dogs have a difficult time to access them. If the window is too high for a cat flap then steps, ramps or purpose built stairs can be utilized to assist the animal get access to it.
A cat flap can be installed to a brick wall, but this is not recommended unless you are experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it's essential to ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. It is recommended to consult an expert when you need to cut a hole in the wall for pipes and cables. It is also recommended to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust-proof mask to avoid breathing in any of the sawdust created by cutting into the walls of your home.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are a variety of cat flaps available and all of them offer various features. Certain cat flaps come with security features, such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry. They also keep your pet from allowing friends or another animal into the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to keep out draughts and moisture.
There's also a range of sizes, based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular, while others are square or circular. The best type of cat flap will be determined by the space you have available and the type of door or window you intend to install it on.
Last but not least, think about the opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. It will not stop other animals and cats from entering, and you could also be letting in draughts.
Once you have selected the appropriate cat flap and measured the window or door then it's time to install it. Mark the belly height of the door using a ruler. Make use of a spirit-level to make sure the line is not too low and that it is straight across the door. Create a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, using a saw, cut out the outline of the door. When you're satisfied with the results sand down the edges and then drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.
Make sure you have the tools ready
Like all DIY jobs, it's always advisable to make sure you have the right tools to complete the task. The most important things you'll require are the cat flap, a tape measure and a decent pencil and a spirit level drill, file and a Jigsaw (depending on your door or window type).
Contact the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a door made of composite. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to be broken. In this instance, you'll probably require a new pane of toughened glass instead.
You'll need an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions given by the manufacturer. If possible, you can use an outline to help mark out the dimensions of the hole you have to cut.
After you've made the hole, you must sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will prevent any future water damage or rust. In the end, you must apply any sealant you require to the rear of the cat flap and to the holes in the window or door to keep out the elements of wind and rain. When the sealant has dried, you're ready to install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
Installing a flap allows your cat to move around whenever it pleases. Most people can put in the flap on their own. However should you wish to install it in glass or uPVC type door, you may need an expert.
Take upvc door panel cat flap at the instructions that came with your cat flap. There is a drawing of the template. This will provide you with an idea of where the holes for the flap will need to be drilled in the door. Then, mark the areas in which you will need to drill with the pencil.
After you have marked the door on your door, use the jigsaw and cut out the the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task, but you'll need to be comfortable using a jigsaw. Many companies will complete this task for you at a reasonable cost if you are hesitant to take on the task yourself.
The next step is to attach the interior part of the flap onto the hole in your door. You may have to apply sealant before doing this to ensure that it stays watertight and weather resistant. You can then put the outer part of the flap on the top of the fixing bolts, and tighten the bolts all together. You should test the flap on your cat to confirm that it functions properly and allows the cat to go in and out easily.