Fitting A Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in your home is a great step for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and needs extra security or you have a new kitten that need to be vetted, there are plenty of options out there for you.

Installing a cat flap can be a daunting task for novices, but, with the right instructions, it's easy to complete. The most important thing is planning, preparation and accuracy.

Select the Right Door, or Windows

There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, some with locks that can be used to keep your pet from leaving or inside, and others that have advanced features like microchips for door entry system. However, it's important to consider the ease of your cat to train to use the flap before you buy and install one.

It is best to place the cat flap, based on the design of your house, in a window that opens into a garden that is sheltered. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering or leaving your home. If you can this will also allow them a route back in should they be pursued by a different cat or by humans who are intent on harming them.

It is possible to install a cat-flap in a upvc door panels cat flap or composite door, but it isn't as easy as putting one in a wood door. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in various thicknesses. This can impact the how holes are cut and the material you put to.

If you're installing the flap in a glass door it is recommended that you find a glazier who is experienced in this type of work to avoid any costly mistakes. If you're installing the flap to the door made of wood, start by introducing your cat to it prior to fitting it, so that they be familiar with its shape and size, and explore it from every angle.

Measure Your Cat's Belly

You'll need your cat's measurements to ensure that the cat flap you put in is a perfect fit. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is the right height for your window or door and that it's wide enough to allow them to get in and exit easily.

To do this, put your pet on their back and run your fingers gently across their belly. Feel for any fat pads that are squishy that could be visible on their lower back, face and legs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline acrobatics.

You can also consider your pet's weight as a way to gauge how big an opening you need. If your cat weighs at or above 5kg in weight for instance that's a 14x12cm cat flap opening is advised.

Take a measurement of your door or window

This kind of cat flap, as its name suggests is designed to be affixed to a door. It lets your pet move in and out at their convenience. The flaps are made of plastic or aluminum and are placed in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that can be opened by lightly pushing on either side. The flaps are available in locking versions that provide additional security which means that your cat can't walk through the door from outside.

A window is a common place to put a cat flap, and they're easy enough to install, though they usually need to be set up high as it is difficult for dogs and cats to reach them otherwise. If the window is not high enough to use the flap for cats, you can use steps, ramps or stairs that are specially designed to help the animal reach it.

It is possible to put the cat flap onto the brick wall, however it is not recommended for people who are not experienced in the masonry industry. This could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it is important to ensure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. Always consult an expert if you have to cut a hole in the wall for pipes and cables. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask can help you avoid inhaling the sawdust that is created when cutting into your walls.

Select the Right Cat Flap

There are many cat flaps available on the market, and come with various features. Certain Cat Flap Installation Bristol flaps come with security features such as magnetic locks or microchips which prevent unauthorised entry. They also prevent your pet from allowing friends or another animal into the house. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to block out moisture and draughts.

There's also a variety of sizes, based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are circular or square. The kind of cat flap you select will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the kind of door or window you're fitting a cat flap it to.

Last but not least, consider the type of opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. The most affordable option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. However, it won't prevent other cats or pets from gaining access and you could be letting draughts in as well.

Once you've selected the right cat flap and measured your window or door then it's time to install it. Begin by marking the height of the belly on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is 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, using a jigsaw, cut out the outline of the door. When you're happy with the results sand down the edges and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for the screws.

Prepare the Tools

It is essential to have the right tools when doing any DIY project. The most essential things you'll need are the cat flap itself as well as a tape measure, a decent pencil and a spirit level drill, file and an Jigsaw (depending on your windows or doors).

Consult the manufacturer before making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to become damaged. In this instance, it's likely that you'll have to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass.

You'll need a jigsaw to cut 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 identify the size of the hole you need to cut.

After you've cut the required hole, you should then smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will prevent any rust or water damage from happening in the future. You should also cover the holes in your window or door and the side of the flap to prevent wind and rain. When the sealant has dried, you're ready to install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to be able to move around at will, installing flaps can aid. Most people can put in the flap themselves. However when you plan to put it in a glass or uPVC type door, you may require an expert.

Take a look at the instructions that came with the cat flap in upvc door panel flap. You will find an illustration of the template. This will provide you with an idea of where holes for the flap need to be drilled in the door. Mark the areas in which you will need to drill with pencil.

After you've marked the area in your door then use a jigsaw cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a relatively simple job however, you'll need to be comfortable using the saw. Many companies will do this task for you at a reasonable cost if you are hesitant to tackle it yourself.

Next, you will need to attach the inside of the flap onto the door's hole. You may need to seal it prior to doing this to ensure it remains weather-proof and water resistant. You can then place the outer section of the cat flap on top of the fixing bolts and tighten the bolts all together. It is recommended that you test the flap with your cat to make sure that it works correctly and that they can enter and leave easily through it.