Fitting A Cat Flap

Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is a fantastic step for any pet owner. There are numerous options for you, whether your cat is older and requires additional security, or you have kittens who need to be checked.

It can be a bit daunting for non-professionals to install a cat flap, but with proper instructions, it's simple. Planning, preparation and precision are the key to success.

Choose the Right Door, or Window

There are a variety of cat flaps, some with locks that can be used to keep your pet from going out or inside, and others that have advanced features like microchips for door entry systems. It's important to think about how it is easy to teach your cat to use the flap, before you purchase and install one.

It's best to place the cat flap, depending on the style of your house, in an opening that leads into a sheltered garden area. This will allow your cat flap install to feel secure when entering or leaving your home. This will also enable them to get back inside if they are pursued by a pet or human who wants to hurt them.

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

To avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended that you consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a door with a glass front. If you're fitting the flap to the door made of wood, start by introducing your cat to it prior to fitting it to allow them to be familiar with its size and shape and explore it from all angles.

Take a look at your cat's belly measurement

To install an appropriate cat flap that is suitable for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat's size. This will enable you to make sure that the flap is installed at the right height for the window or door, and that it's big enough to allow him to enter and out easily.

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

You can also use your pet's weight to gauge how big an opening you require. If your cat weighs 5Kg, for example the suggested flap size is 14 x 12cm.

Take a measurement of your door or window

The name implies this kind of cat flap is made to be attached to the door, and offers an opportunity for your pet to leave or enter at any time it wishes. These 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 can be locked that provide additional security so your cat cannot simply traverse the door from outside.

A window is another common location for a cat's flap, and they are simple enough to put in, but they are usually located high enough as it's difficult for dogs and cats to reach them otherwise. If the window isn't high enough to use the flap for cats, you can make use of ramps, steps or specially designed stairs to help the animal reach it.

Cat flaps can also be fitted into a brick wall, however it is not recommended unless you're experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the structure of the wall. It is important to make sure there are no cables and pipes in the wall prior to you start. If there are, then there must be a hole made for them. This is something that you should always seek expert advice on. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask can ensure that you don't breathe in the sawdust created when you cut into your walls.

Choose the right cat flap

There are numerous cat flaps available and all of them offer various features. Some have security options such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition to prevent unauthorized entry and also stop your pet allowing pets or friends into the house. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to block the elements of moisture and draughts.

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

The last thing to do is consider the type of opening mechanism your cat flap will use. A simple aluminium or plastic swing-out door is a good choice and is typically the cheapest. It won't prevent other animals and cats from entering, and you could also be letting in draughts.

Once you've selected the right cat flap and measured the window or fitting a cat flap door then it's time to install it. Begin by marking the height of the belly on the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is sitting exactly on the door and not too low. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, using your jigsaw, cut out the outline of the door. When you are satisfied with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil markings to make holes for screws.

Prepare the Tools

It's essential to have the right tools when performing any DIY project. You'll need the cat flap installer near me flap along with a pencil and tape measure, a spirit-level, a 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 become damaged. In this scenario, it's likely that you'll need to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.

For wooden or upvc cat flap door panels doors you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap using the Jigsaw. Follow the directions given by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to determine the size of hole you need.

After you have cut the hole, you'll need to sand the edges of the opening. This will stop any rust or water damage from occurring in the future. You should also cover the holes in your window or door and the back of the cat flap to prevent wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry and dry, you can install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to move around as it pleases, fitting a flap can help. This is a straightforward process that most people can do by themselves, though you will likely require the help of a professional if you are installing the flap in the form of a glass door or another type of uPVC door.

Take a look at the instructions included with the cat flap. There is a template drawing. This will give you an idea of where holes need to be drilled for the flap on the door. Then, mark the places that you'll must drill using pencil.

After you have marked the door on your door, use the jigsaw to cut the the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task, but you will require a good understanding of the jigsaw. If you are worried about doing it yourself, there are many businesses that can handle this for you at a minimal cost.

Then, attach the outer part to the hole of your door. It might be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this to ensure it is waterproof and weatherproof. The outer part of your cat flap can be placed on the bolts' tops and then securing them. It is recommended to test the cat flap with your cat to ensure that it works correctly and that they are able to move easily through it.