Fitting a Cat Flap

Getting a cat flap fitted in to your home can be a huge step for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and requires extra security, or you have new kittens that need to be vetted there are plenty of options there for you.

It can be intimidating for non-professionals to install the cat flap, but with right instructions it's easy. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the keys.

Select the Right Door, or Windows

There are a variety of cat flaps available, some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from leaving or entering) and others that have high-tech features such as microchips for door entry systems. It is important to consider how it is easy to teach your cat to use the flap, before you purchase and install one.

Depending on the style of your house It is recommended to place the cat flap near an opening or window that opens out into an area of protection in the garden, so that your cat will feel secure entering and leaving the home. If possible, this will also give them a route back in case they are pursued by a different cat or by humans intent on harming them.

It's possible to put a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it's not the same as fitting one into a wood door. This is because uPVC and composite doors come in various thicknesses, and this can impact how holes are cut and the materials you're fixing them into.

To avoid costly errors It is recommended to consult a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you're installing the flap on a wooden door, start by introduction of your cat to it prior to fitting it so that they can become familiar with its shape and size and explore it from all angles.

Take a look at your cat's belly measurement

In order to install an appropriate cat flap that is suitable for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat's height. This will help you make sure that the flap is installed at the correct height on the door or window, and that it's big enough for him to enter and out easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers over their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back and face, as well as the legs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline circus skills.

Alternatively, you can also consider your pet's weight as a way to determine the size of the opening you need. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg, for example the suggested flap size is 14x12cm.

Make sure you measure your door or window

This kind of cat flap, as the name suggests, is designed to be affixed to the door. It lets your pet be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. They are usually made from aluminum or plastic and sit in the centre of the door. They come with the possibility of a swinging door that opens by pressing lightly on either side. The flaps are available with locking options that provide additional security so your cat cannot simply walk through the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also commonly employed in windows. They are able to be easily installed, but they have to be installed at an elevated level since cats and dogs have a difficult time to reach them. If the window is not high enough to use the flap for cats, you can make use of ramps, steps, or specially designed stairs to assist the animal in reaching it.

It is possible to put an egress into the brick wall, however it is not recommended for those who aren't familiar with the masonry industry. This could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it's essential to make sure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. If there are, there must be a hole created for them and this is something that you should always seek professional advice on. It is also recommended to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust protection mask to prevent inhaling any sawdust generated by cutting through the walls of your home.

Select the Right Cat Flap

There are numerous cat flaps that are available on the market, and come with different features. Some cat flaps have security features like magnetic locks or microchips which prevent unauthorised entry. They also keep your pet from letting friends or animals to enter the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals that keep out water and drafts.

There are different sizes to choose from based on the breed and size of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular, while others are circular or square. The best type of cat flap is determined by the space you have available and the type of door or window you intend to install it on.

Also, think about the mechanism for opening your cat flap will come with. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. However, it won't stop other pets or cats from entering your home and you could let draughts in too.

Once you've selected the correct cat flap and measured the window or door and window, it's now time to put it in place it. Mark the belly height of the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is not too low and is in line with the door. Use your spirit level to draw a sketch of the flap for cats. Next, use your jigsaw to cut out the outline of the door. When you're satisfied with the result, sand the edges and then drill through the pencil marks to make holes for the screws.

Make the Tools

It's important to have the right tools when performing any DIY project. You'll require the cat flap, tape measure and pencil, a spirit-level, a drill and a jigsaw depending on the kind of window or door.

Contact the manufacturer prior to making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal broken. In this scenario it's likely you will need to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass.

For wooden or uPVC doors will require cutting out the shape of your cat flap with the Jigsaw. Follow the directions provided by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to mark out the size hole you'll need.

After you've made the hole, you will have to sand the edges of the opening. This will stop the possibility of water damage and rust. It is also recommended to cover the holes in your window or door and the side of the flap to keep out rain and wind. Once the sealant has dried, you can install your cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to be able to move around at will, installing flaps can aid.  cat flap fitters near me  can install the flap by themselves. However should you wish to put it in the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you may require a professional.

Begin by studying the instructions included with your cat flap to locate the template drawing. This will provide you with an idea of where holes for the flap will need to be drilled in the door. Then, mark the areas that you'll need to drill with pencil.

Once you have marked out the door's area and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task, but you'll need to be comfortable using the jigsaw. If you're worried about doing it yourself, there are plenty of businesses that can handle this for you at a very low cost.

Then, screw the inner part of the door to the hole in your door. You may have to apply sealant before doing this to ensure it is weather and water resistant. You can then put the outer section of the cat flap on top of the fixing bolts, and tighten the bolts all together. You should test the cat flap on your cat to confirm that it is working correctly and that it allows them to exit and enter easily.