Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap your home is an excellent option for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and requires extra security, or you have a new kitten who require a vet check, there are plenty of options out there to choose from.
Installing a cat flap could be daunting for non-professionals but, with the right instructions, it's not hard to complete. The key is preparation, planning and precision.
Select the Right Door or Windows
There are many different types of cat flaps, including some with locks that can be used to prevent your pet from going out or in and others with high tech features like microchip door entry systems. It is 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 style of your house, it's generally best to situate the cat flap in an opening or window that opens to a sheltered area of the garden so your cat will feel secure going into and out of the house. This will also allow them to get back inside if they are pursued by a pet or human beings who wish to harm them.
It is possible to install the cat flap on the form of a uPVC door or a glass window however, it's not as easy as putting one in a wooden door. This is because uPVC or composite doors come in different thicknesses. This could affect the how holes are cut and what you fix to.
If you're installing the flap on glass doors it is recommended that you find a glazier who is experienced in this type of work to avoid costly mistakes. If you're installing the flap on the door made of wood, start by introduction of your cat to it before you fit it to allow them to get used to 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 make sure that the cat flap you choose to install is a good fit. This will allow you to ensure that the cat flap is installed at the right height for the door or window and that it is large enough for him to get in and leave easily.
To do this, place your pet on their back and gently rub your fingers along their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back or face, or around the limbs. The padding provides your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics that felines are famous for.
You can also use the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you need. If your cat is at or over 5kg, for example that's a 14x12cm cat flap opening is advised.
Measure cat flap installers or door
This type of cat flap, as the name suggests is designed to be affixed to the door. It lets your pet be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. The flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and sit in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that opens by gently pushing on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps that provide added security so your cat isn't able to traverse through the door from outside.
A window is another popular location for a cat flap, and they are simple enough to put in, but they usually need to be set up high as it is difficult for dogs and cats to access them. If the window isn't sufficient in height to be used as a cat's flap, you can make use of ramps, steps, or specially designed stairs to assist the animal in reaching it.
Cat flaps can be incorporated into a brick wall, however it is not recommended unless you are familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it is important to ensure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. Always consult an expert when you need to make a hole for pipes or cables. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask can allow you to avoid breathing in the sawdust created when cutting through your walls.
Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.
There are many different cat flaps available and all of them offer different features. Certain cat flaps come with security features, such as microchip recognition or magnetic locks that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also prevent your pet from letting guests or another animal into the home. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals that keep out the elements of moisture and draughts.
There are also different sizes that are available based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, whereas others are circular or square. Choosing the right type of cat flap will be dictated by the space available and the kind of door or window you want to attach it to.
Finally think about the mechanism for opening your cat flap will come with. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It will not stop other pets and cats from entering, and you could also be letting in drafts.
It's time to put in your cat flap. Determine the belly height of the door using a ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is sitting straight against the door and not too low. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, use a Jigsaw to cut the outline of the door. When you are satisfied with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil markings to make holes for screws.
Make the Tools
It's essential to have the right tools available when undertaking 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 door or window.
If you're installing in a composite door, you should check with the manufacturer prior to making any alterations since this could invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this instance, you'll probably require a new pane of toughened glass instead.
For wooden or uPVC doors you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap using the Jigsaw. Follow the directions given by the manufacturer. Use a template to determine the size of hole you need.
After you've made the hole, you will have to sand off the edges of the opening. This should prevent any rust or water damage from occurring in the future. Finally, you should apply any sealant that is needed to the rear of the cat flap, and to the holes in the door or window to keep out the elements of wind and rain. After the sealant has dried it is time to install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
The installation of a flap will allow your cat to go and come whenever it wishes. Most people can put in the flap on their own. However when you plan to install it in a glass or uPVC type door, you might need a professional.
Begin by studying the instructions that come with your cat flap to locate the template drawing. This will give an idea of the location where the holes are to be drilled to install the flap to be placed in the door. Mark the areas you'll need to drill into using a pencil.
After you have marked the area on your door, you can use the jigsaw and cut out the shape for the cat flap. This is a relatively easy job, but you'll need to be comfortable using a saw. If you're worried about doing this yourself, there are a lot of companies that can complete this for you at a minimal cost.
Then, screw the inner part to the hole in your door. You may have to apply sealant prior to doing this to ensure it stays watertight and weather resistant. You can then put the outer portion of the flap on top of the fixing bolts and then tighten the bolts all together. You should test the flap on your cat to ensure that it is working correctly and allows them to exit and enter easily.