Fitting A Cat Flap

Getting a cat flap fitted inside your home can be a big step for any pet owner. There are many options available to you, regardless of whether your cat is old and needs extra security or if you have kittens that require to be checked.

Installing a cat flap could be intimidating for people who aren't professionals, but with the right instructions, it's not difficult to accomplish. The most important thing is planning, preparation and precision.

Choose the Right Door or Window

There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to prevent your pet from getting out or in and others with advanced features like microchips for door entry systems. It is important to think about how it is easy to train your cat to use the flap before you buy and install one.

Depending on the style of your home It is recommended to put the cat flap inside a window or door that opens out into an area of protection in the garden so your cat will feel secure going into and out of the house. If you can this will also allow them a route back in should they be pursued by a different cat or by humans intent to hurt them.

It's possible to put the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it's not as easy as putting one on a wooden door. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in various thicknesses. This can affect the how holes are cut and the type of door you can fix to.

To avoid costly errors, it is recommended that you consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a door with a glass front. If you're fitting a cat flap in a upvc door a cat flap - try these out - the flap onto the door made of wood it is recommended that you 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 a cat flap cost flap that's suitable for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat's height. This will ensure that the flap is at the correct height on your window or door and that it's wide enough to allow them to enter and exit with ease.

To do this, place your pet on their back and gently rub your fingers across their belly. Feel for any fat pads that are squishy which could be visible on their lower back, face and legs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline circus skills.

You can also use your pet's weight to determine the size of the opening you need. If your cat weighs up to 5kg, for instance, the suggested cat flap size is 14x12cm.

Measure Your Door or Window

This kind of cat flap, as the name suggests is made to be fitted into a door. It allows your pet to enter and exit at its convenience. They are typically made of aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door. They have an open door that is opened by pushing lightly on either side. The flaps can be locked that provide additional security so your cat flap bifold doors cannot simply walk through the door from outside.

A window is another popular location for a cat's flap and these are easy enough to fit, although they often need to be placed high up as it's difficult for dogs and cats to access them. If the window is not high enough to use a cat's flap, you can make use of ramps, steps or specially designed stairs to help the animal reach it.

A cat flap could also be fitted into a brick wall, however it is not recommended unless you are experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the wall's structure. It is essential to ensure that there aren't any cables and pipes within the wall before you start. If they are, there must be a hole created for them and this is something that you should always seek expert advice on. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask will ensure that you don't breathe in the sawdust created when cutting through your walls.

Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.

There are a variety of cat flaps available on the market, and all offer different features. Some have security options such as magnetic locks or microchips that prevent unauthorized entry and also prevent your pet from allowing friends or other animals into the house. Some have weatherproof seals and insulation to keep out the elements and keep out drafts.

There are various sizes available depending on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are circular or square. The type of cat flap you choose will depend on the size of the opening and the kind of door or window you're fixing it to.

The last thing to do is 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. However, it will not stop other pets or cats from entering and you may let draughts in too.

It's time to put in your cat flap. Make a mark on the belly of the door using a ruler. Make use of a spirit-level to make sure that the line is not too low and is straight on the door. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, using your saw, cut out the outline of the door. Once 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 is essential to have the right tools available when performing any DIY project. You'll need a cat flap insulation flap as well as a pencil and tape measure, a spirit-level, a drill and a jigsaw depending on the kind of window or door.

If you're installing in a composite door, you should consult with the manufacturer prior to making any changes since this could affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this instance it's likely that you will need to replace the glass with a brand new piece of toughened glass.

For wooden or uPVC doors, you'll need to cut out the shape of your cat flap using a jigsaw and follow the instructions given by the manufacturer. If you can, use a template to help you mark out the dimensions of the hole you will need to cut.

After you've made the 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 near future. You should also seal the holes in your window or door and the side of the flap to prevent wind and rain. When the sealant has dried then you're now ready to put in your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to be able to go and come at will, installing flaps can aid. This is a straightforward process that most people can complete themselves, although you'll likely require the help of an expert for installing the flap in the form of a glass door or another kind of uPVC door.

Take a look at the instructions included with your cat flap. There is a drawing of the template. This will give you an idea of the location where holes need to be drilled to install the flap in the door. Then, mark the areas where you need to drill with pencil.

After you've marked the door's opening, use a jigsaw to cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a relatively simple job however you'll need be comfortable using the jigsaw. Numerous companies will perform this for you for a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to take on the task yourself.

Then, screw the inner part of the door to the hole in your door. It is possible to seal the flap prior to you do this, in order to keep it weatherproof and watertight. You can then place the outer portion of the cat flap on the top of the fixing bolts, and tighten the bolts all together. You should test the cat flap on your cat to make sure that it's working properly and allows the cat to go in and out easily.