Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is an excellent option for any pet owner. There are many options available to you, regardless of whether your cat is older and needs extra security, or you have kittens that require to be vetted.
It can be difficult for people who aren't experts in installing the cat flap, but with proper instructions, it's simple. Planning, preparation and precision are the key to success.
Select the Right Door, or Windows
There are many different types of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to keep your pet from going out or in and others with modern features such as microchips or a door entry system. It's important to think about how it is easy to train your cat to use the flap before you buy and install one.
Based on the style of your home It is recommended to place the cat flap in the form of a door or window that opens onto an area of protection in the garden, so that your cat is secure when going into and out of the house. This will also allow them to go back 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 easy as putting one into a wood door. This is because uPVC or composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses. This can affect the how holes are cut and what you fix into.
If you're installing the flap inside the glass of a door, it's recommended that you consult a glazier who specialises in such work to avoid costly errors. If you are fitting the flap to a wooden door, you should introduce your cat to it at first to make sure it is familiar with its size and shape.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
In order to install the right cat flap that's the right size for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's height. This will help you ensure that your cat flap is placed at the correct height on the door or window, and that it's big enough to allow him to enter and leave easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Feel for any fat pads that are squishy - these may be visible around their lower back, face and legs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline acrobatics.
You can also use the weight of your pet to determine how large opening you require. If your cat weighs up to 5kg, for instance, the suggested cat flap size is 14x12cm.
Take a measurement of your door or window
This type of cat flap, as the name suggests is made to be fitted into the door. It lets your pet enter and exit at its convenience. They are usually made of plastic or aluminium and simply are placed in the middle of the door with the possibility of a swinging door that is opened by pushing lightly on either side. There are locks on some of these flaps, which provide additional security to ensure that your cat isn't able to enter the door from the outside.
Cat flaps are also commonly used on windows. They can be easily installed, but they have to be placed at a high level as cats and dogs have a difficult time to access them. If the window isn't sufficient to accommodate the flap for cats, you can use ramps, steps, or stairs that are specially designed to help the animal reach it.
It is possible to install the cat flap onto the brick wall, however it is not recommended for people who are not experienced in brickwork. This could weaken the wall's structure. It is essential to ensure that there are no cables and pipes within the wall before you start. If they are, there must be a hole created for them and this is something you should always seek expert advice on. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask will help you avoid inhaling the sawdust that is created when you cut into your walls.
Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.
There are a variety of cat flaps on the market and all of them offer different features. Some cat flaps have security features like magnetic locks or microchips that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also prevent your pet from letting friends or other animals into the home. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to keep out the elements and keep out drafts.
There's also a range of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, while others are square or circular. The type of cat flap you select will depend on the size of the opening and the kind of door or window you're fitting it to.
Last but not least, take into consideration the kind of opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. The most affordable option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It won't stop other animals and cats from entering, and you could also be letting in draughts.
cat flap installer to install your cat flap. Determine the belly height of the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is sitting straight on the door and not too low. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. 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 create holes for the screws.
Make the Tools
It is essential to have the right tools for undertaking any DIY project. The most essential things you'll need are the cat flap along with a tape measure, a good pencil and a spirit level a file, drill and a jigsaw (depending on your windows or doors).
If you're installing in a composite door, consult with the manufacturer prior to making any changes as this may invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this case you'll likely need to fit an additional pane of toughened glass instead.
For wooden or uPVC doors, you'll need to cut out the shape of your cat flap using a Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. If possible, use an outline to help identify the dimensions of the hole you have to cut.
After you've cut the hole, you'll have to sand off the edges of the opening. This will stop any future water damage or rust. You should also cover the holes in your window or door and the side of the flap to block wind and rain. After the sealant has dried, you're ready to install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to move around as it pleases, fitting flaps can be helpful. Most people can install the flap by themselves. However when you plan to install it on a glass or uPVC type door, you may require an expert.
Begin by studying the instructions that come with the flap to locate the template drawing. This will give you an idea of where holes for the flap need to be drilled in the door. Note the areas you'll have to drill with the pencil.
After you have marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw to cut the design for the cat flap. This is a relatively simple job however you'll need be comfortable using a Jigsaw. If you're worried about doing this yourself, there are plenty of businesses that can handle this for you at a minimal cost.
Next, you will need to attach the interior part of the flap onto the hole in your door. It might be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this to ensure it is waterproof and weatherproof. You can then place the outer portion of the cat flap on top of the fixing bolts and tighten the bolts all together. You must test the cat flap on your cat to ensure that it is working correctly and that it allows the cat to go in and out easily.