Fitting A Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap your home is an excellent option for any pet owner. If your cat is old and requires extra security, or you have a new kitten that need to be vetted there are a lot of options there for you.

Installing a cat flap can be a daunting task for novices, but with the right instructions, it's not difficult to accomplish. Planning, preparation and precision are the most important factors.

Choose the Right Door or Windows

There are a variety of cat flaps that are available that come with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet going out or entering) and others with advanced features such as microchips for door entry systems. However, it's important to think about the ease of your cat to teach to use the flap before you purchase and fit one.

Depending on the design of your house, it's usually best to place the cat flap in an opening or window that opens out into an area of protection in the garden, so that your cat can feel safe when entering and leaving the home. If possible, this will also give them a way back should they be pursued by a different cat or by a human intent to harm them.

It is possible to install a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it's not as easy as putting one on a wooden door. This is because upvc cat flap door panels or composite doors come in various thicknesses. This could affect the how holes are cut and the material you put into.

If you're installing the flap inside the glass of a door it is recommended that you consult a glazier who specialises in this type of work to avoid any costly mistakes. If you're installing the flap on an old wooden door, begin by introducing your cat to it prior to fitting it to allow them to get used to its shape and size, and explore it from all angles.

Measure Your Cat's Belly

In order to install a cat flap that's suitable for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat. This will allow you to ensure that the cat flap is placed at the right height for the door or window and that it's big enough to allow him to enter and out easily.

To do this, place your pet on their back and gently rub your fingers across their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back or face, or around the limbs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline circus skills.

Alternately, you could use your pet's weight to determine the size of the opening you'll need. If your cat weighs up to 5kg, for instance the suggested flap size is 14 x 12cm.

Make sure you measure your windows or doors

The name implies, this type of cat flap is made to be attached to a door and provides the pet with a way to leave or enter whenever it wants. These flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and sit in the middle of the door. They have a two-way swinging opening that is opened by gently pushing on either side. The flaps are available with locking options that offer added security, so that your cat is not able to enter the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also frequently used in windows. They are able to be easily installed, but they have to be placed at a height where cats and dogs find it difficult to reach them. If the window is too high for a cat flap, then ramps, steps, or specially built stairs can be used to help the animal access it.

A cat flap can be incorporated into a brick wall, however this is not recommended unless familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the wall's structure. It is essential to ensure that there aren't any cables or pipes in the wall prior to you begin. If they are, an opening must be made for them. This is something you should always seek professional advice on. It is also recommended to wear protective goggles and a dust protection mask to avoid inhaling any of the sawdust created by cutting through the walls of your house.

Choose the cat flap in upvc door panel Flap that is right for you.

There are numerous cat flaps available on the market, and all offer various features. Some are equipped with security features like magnetic locks or microchips that stop unauthorized entry and prevent your pet from allowing friends or other animals into the home. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to keep out draughts and moisture.

There's also a range of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular while others are square or circular. Selecting the best cat flap is determined by the space available and the kind of window or door you are fitting it to.

Lastly consider the mechanism to open your cat flap in upvc door cost flap is likely to have. A simple aluminium or plastic swing-out door is a good choice and is typically the least expensive. However, it will not stop other pets or cats from entering and you may let draughts in as well.

It's time to install your cat flap. Start by marking the height of the belly on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure the line is not too low and that it is straight across the door. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, using your jigsaw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you are satisfied with the result finish sanding the edges and drill through the pencil lines to create holes for screws.

Make the Tools

It's essential to have the right tools for undertaking any DIY project. The main things you'll need are the cat flap itself as well as a tape measure, a good pencil, a spirit level, a file, drill and a Jigsaw (depending on your windows or doors).

Consult the manufacturer before making any changes to a door made of composite. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to be damaged. In this scenario it's likely that you'll need to replace the glass with a brand new piece of toughened glass.

You'll require a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap from a wooden or upvc cat flap door panels door. Follow the directions given by the manufacturer. If possible, use a template to help you mark out the size of hole you will need to cut.

After you've cut the hole, you will have to sand off the edges of the opening. This should prevent any rust or water damage from happening in the near future. Also, you should apply any sealant you require to the rear of the cat flap and to the holes in the door or window to block rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry, you're ready to install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

Installing a flap allows your cat to move around whenever it pleases. The majority of people can install the flap themselves. However, if you want to install it on glass or uPVC type door, you may require an expert.

Take a look at the instructions included with the cat flap insulation flap. You will find a drawing of the template. This will give an idea of the location where holes need to be drilled for the flap in the door. Then, mark the places that you'll need to drill with a pencil.

After you have marked the door on your door, use the jigsaw to cut the the cat flap. It is a relatively simple task, but you'll have to be comfortable using a jigsaw. Numerous companies will perform this task for you at a reasonable price If you're not sure how to tackle it yourself.

Then, attach the outer part to the hole of your door. It is possible to apply sealant before making this move to ensure it is weather and water resistant. The outside of your cat flap may be placed on the bolts on top, and then securing them. It is recommended that you test the flap with your cat to ensure that it functions properly and that they can move easily through it.