Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is a fantastic step for any pet owner. If your cat is old and requires extra security, or you have a new kitten who require a vet check There are plenty of options there for you.

It can be intimidating for people who aren't experts in installing an animal flap, but with right instructions it's easy. Planning, preparation and precision are the keys.

Select the Right Door or Window

There's a wide selection of cat flaps available that come with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from leaving or coming in) and others that have high-tech features such as microchips for door entry systems. However, it's important to think about how easy your cat is to train to use the flap prior to making a purchase and fit one.

It's best to place the cat flap, depending on the design of your home, inside an opening that leads into an area of the garden that is protected. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering and leaving your home. This will also allow them to get back inside if they are chased by another animal or humans who want to harm them.

It's possible to install the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as easy as putting one on a wooden door. This is because uPVC and composite doors are available in different thicknesses, which affect the way holes are cut and the materials you're fixing them to.

To avoid costly errors to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended to consult a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you are fitting the flap onto an existing wooden door you must introduce your cat to it at first so that it can become familiar with its size and shape.

Find out the size of your cat's belly

In order to put in the right cat flap that's the right size for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's height. This will enable you to make sure that the flap is installed at the right height for the door or window, and also that it's large enough for him to enter and leave easily.

To do this, lay your pet on their back and run your fingers gently along their belly. Look for any squishy fat pads - these could be visible on their lower back, face or limbs. The extra padding offers your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the acrobatics cats are known for.

You can also use the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you need. If your cat weighs more than 5kg, for instance the suggested flap size is 14 x 12cm.

Take a measurement of your door or window

As the name suggests the cat flap is designed to be fixed into a door and provides the pet with a way to leave or enter whenever it wants. These flaps are constructed of plastic or aluminum and sit in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that is opened by gently pressing on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps that provide extra security, so your cat can't simply enter the door from the outside.

Cat flaps are also frequently employed in windows. They are easy to be installed, but they have to be installed at a high level as cats and dogs find it difficult to access them. If the window isn't high enough to use the flap for cats, you can opt for ramps, steps, or specially designed stairs to help the animal reach it.

A  cat flap  can be installed into a brick wall, however it is not recommended unless you are familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it's important to ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. You should always consult an expert when you need to cut a hole in the wall for pipes or cables. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask can ensure that you don't breathe in the dust that is generated when you cut into your walls.

Choose the right cat flap

There are many cat flaps on the market, and all offer various features. Some are equipped with security features such as magnetic locks or microchips that block entry by unauthorized persons and restrict your pet from letting guests or other animals to enter the home. Some have weatherproof seals and insulation to keep out the elements and keep out drafts.

There are also different sizes to choose from based on the size and breed of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, whereas others are square or circular. The type of cat flap you choose will depend on the size of the opening and the type of window or door you're fitting it to.

Also think about the opening mechanism that your cat flap will have. A simple aluminum or plastic swing-out door is one choice and is typically the cheapest. It won't prevent other cats and pets from entering however, and you could let in draughts.

It's time to install your cat flap. Make a mark on the belly of the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is exactly on the door and not too low. Utilize your spirit level to draw a template for the flap for cats. Then, using your jigsaw, cut out the outline of the door. When you are satisfied with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil marks to create holes for screws.

Prepare the Tools

It's essential to have the right tools available when doing any DIY project. You'll require the 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.

Consult the manufacturer before making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal to be broken. In this instance it's likely you will need to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.

You'll require the jigsaw to cut your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. Make use of a template to mark the size hole you'll require.

After you've cut the hole, you will have to sand off the edges of the opening. This will stop future rust and water damage. You should also seal the holes in your window or door and the back of the flap to block rain and wind. Once the sealant has dried then you can put up your new cat-flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to be able to go and come whenever it wants, installing flaps can be helpful. Most people can put in the flap on their own. However should you wish to install it on a glass or uPVC type door, you may require a professional.

Begin by studying the instructions provided with your cat flap to find the template. This will give you an idea of where the holes for the flap will need to be made in the door. Then, mark the places where you need to drill with the pencil.

Once you have marked out the area in your door then use a jigsaw cut out the shape of the cat flap. It is a relatively simple job, but you'll have to be comfortable using the Jigsaw. Numerous companies will perform this work for you for a reasonable price if you are hesitant to take on the task yourself.

Next, you will need to attach the interior part of the flap onto the door's hole. It may be necessary to seal the flap before you do this 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 them all together. It is recommended to test the flap with your cat to make sure that it functions properly and that they can move easily through it.