Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in to your home can be a major step for any pet owner. If your cat is old and requires extra security, or you have kittens 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 a cat flap, but with the right instructions it's easy. The most important thing is planning, preparation and precision.

Choose the Right Door, or Window

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

Depending on the style of your house, it's generally best to place the cat flap in an opening or window that opens onto an area that is protected from the garden so your cat can feel safe when going into and out of the house. This will also allow them to go back inside if they are chased by other animals or human beings who wish to hurt them.

You can install an egress flap inside the case of a uPVC door or a glass window however, it's not as easy as fitting one into a wooden door. This is because uPVC and composite doors come in different thicknesses, and this can impact the way holes are cut and the material you're fixing it into.

To avoid costly errors It is recommended that you consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you're installing the flap on the door made of wood, start by introducing your cat to it before you fit it to allow them to get used to its shape and size and explore it from all angles.

Take a look at your cat's belly measurement

It is important to know the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap you put in is a good fit. This will ensure that the flap is at the right height on your door or window and that it's large enough to allow them to enter and exit with ease.

Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back and face, as well as the limbs. The padding provides your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the acrobatics cats are famous for.

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

Make sure you measure your door or window

This kind of cat flap, as its name suggests, is designed to be installed into a door. It lets your pet move in and out at their convenience. These flaps are made of plastic or aluminum and are placed in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that is opened by gently pressing on either side. There are locks on some of these flaps, which provide additional security to ensure that your cat won't be able to simply walk through from the outside.

Cat flaps are also frequently used on windows. They are able to be easily installed, but they have to be set at a high level as cats and dogs find it difficult to get them. If the window is too high for a cat flap, then ramps, steps, or specially built stairs can be utilized to aid the animal in accessing it.

A cat flap could be incorporated into a brick wall, however this is not recommended unless you're familiar with masonry work since 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. Always consult an expert if you have to make a hole for cables and pipes. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask will allow you to avoid breathing in the dust that is generated when cutting through your walls.

Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.

There are a variety of cat flaps that are available on the market, and have various features. Some cat flaps have security features like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also keep your pet from letting friends or another animal into the house. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to keep out the elements of moisture and draughts.

There is also a choice of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular, while others are square or circular. The kind of cat flap you choose will depend on the size of the opening and the kind of door or window you're installing it to.

Finally think about the opening mechanism that your cat flap will have. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. It will not stop other animals and cats from entering, and you could also let in draughts.

It's time to install your cat flap. Begin by marking the belly's height on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit-level to ensure that the line is not too low and is in line with the door. Draw  Click Link  of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, using a saw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you are happy with the result finish sanding the edges and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for screws.

Make sure you have the tools ready

As with any DIY jobs, it's always best to have the appropriate tools to complete the task. The main things you'll need are the cat flap as well as a tape measure, a good pencil as well as a spirit level, drill, file and the Jigsaw (depending on your window or door type).

If you're installing in a composite door, it is recommended to consult with the manufacturer before making any changes, as this may invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this case you'll need to fit an additional pane of toughened glass instead.

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

After you've cut the required hole, you must sand down the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop future rust and water damage. In the end, you must apply any necessary sealant to the rear of the cat flap and to the holes in the window or door to block the elements of wind and rain. After 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 move around whenever it wants, installing flaps can be helpful. This is a simple process that most people can accomplish on their own, but you may require the assistance of a professional if you are installing the flap in a glass door or other kind of uPVC door.

Take a look at the instructions included with your cat flap. You will find an illustration of the template. This will provide you with an idea of where the holes for the flap will need to be made in the door. Mark the areas you will need to drill into with a pencil.

After you've marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw to cut the the cat flap. This is a relatively simple job, but you'll need to be comfortable using the saw. Numerous companies will perform this for you at a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to do it yourself.

Then, screw the inner part to the hole in your door. It may be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this, in order to keep it waterproof and weatherproof. The outer section of your cat flap could be placed on the bolts' tops and then tightened together. You must test the cat flap on your cat to confirm that it is working correctly and allows them to exit and enter easily.