Fitting A Cat Flap

Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is a great step for any pet owner. There are numerous options for you, no matter if your cat is older and needs extra security, or you have kittens that need to be vetted.

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

Choose the Right Door or Windows

There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, including some with locks that can be used to prevent your pet from going out or in and others with high tech features like microchip door entry system. It is important to consider how easy it will be to train your cat to use the flap, before you purchase and install one.

Depending on the design of your home It is recommended to place the cat flap inside an opening or window that opens to an area of protection in the garden so that your cat flap in upvc door cost will feel secure entering and leaving the home. If you can this will also allow them a way back should they get chased by a cat or by humans intent on harming them.

It is possible to install an egress flap inside the case of a uPVC door or a glass cat flap installation near me window, but it's not as simple as fitting a cat flap one into wooden doors. It's because uPVC or composite doors are available in various thicknesses. This could affect the method of cutting holes, and what you fix to.

If you're installing the flap inside glass doors it is recommended to consult a glazier who specialises in this kind of work to avoid any costly mistakes. If you're installing the flap on an old wooden door, begin by introducing your cat to it before you fit it to allow them to be familiar with its size and shape and explore it from every angle.

Measure Your Cat's Belly

You'll need the measurements of your cat to make sure 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 big enough for them to enter and out easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers over their belly. Look for any squishy fat pads that might be visible around their lower back, face and limbs. The padding provides your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics felines are famous for.

You can also make use of your pet's weight to gauge how big an opening you need. If your cat weighs at or over 5kg, for example that's a 14x12cm flap for the cat is advised.

Measure Your Door or Window

The name implies, this type of double glazing cat flap flap is designed to be affixed to a door and provides the pet with a way to leave or enter whenever it wants. They are usually made of aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door. They come with the possibility of a swinging door that is opened by pushing lightly on either side. They are available with locking options which provide extra security so that your cat is not able to traverse the door from outside.

A window is another popular place to put a cat flap in upvc door panel 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 isn't high enough to use a cat's flap, then you can use steps, ramps or specially designed stairs to assist the animal in reaching it.

It is possible to install the cat flap onto a brickwall, but it is not recommended for people who are not experienced in brickwork. This could weaken the structure of the wall. It is essential to ensure that there are no cables and pipes in the wall prior to you begin. If there are, there must be a hole made for them. This is something that you should always seek professional advice on. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask will allow you to avoid breathing in the sawdust created when cutting into your walls.

Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.

There are numerous cat flaps that are available on the market, and they come with various features. Some have security options like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by unauthorized persons and restrict your pet from letting pets or friends into the house. Some have weatherproof seals and insulation to block out moisture and draughts.

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

Lastly, think about the mechanism for opening your cat flap will come with. The most affordable option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. But, it will not keep other animals or cats from entering your home and you could be letting draughts in as well.

It's time to put in your cat flap. Make a mark on the belly of the door using your ruler. Make use of a spirit-level to make sure the line isn't too low and that it is straight across the door. Utilize your spirit level to draw a template for the cat flap. Next, use your saw to cut out the outline of the door. When you are satisfied with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil lines to create holes for screws.

Prepare the Tools

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

If you're installing a composite door, you should check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes since this could affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this scenario, you'll probably need to fit an additional pane of toughened glass instead.

For wooden or uPVC doors you'll need to cut out the shape of your cat flap using the Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines given by the manufacturer. If you can, use a template to help you mark out the dimensions of the hole you'll have to cut.

After you've made the hole, you'll have to sand off the edges of the opening. This should prevent any rust or water damage from occurring in the future. It is also recommended to cover the holes in your window or door and the back of the flap to keep out rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry it is time to install your new cat-flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to be able to go and come whenever it wants, installing a flap can help. It's a simple procedure that most people can accomplish by themselves, though you will likely require the help of an expert for installing the flap on an unglazed door or any other kind of uPVC door.

Start by looking at the instructions included with the flap to locate the drawing template. This will give you an idea of where holes for the flap will need to be drilled in the door. Mark the areas you will have to drill using the pencil.

After you've marked the area in your door, use a jigsaw to cut out the shape of the cat flap. It's a relatively easy job, but you'll need to be comfortable with a saw. Numerous companies will perform this task for you for a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to take on the task yourself.

Next, you will need to attach the inside of the cat flap to the door's hole. It is possible to apply sealant prior to doing this to ensure it remains weather-proof and water resistant. You can then place the outer portion of the flap on the top of the fixing bolts, and tighten them all. It is recommended to test the flap using your cat to ensure that it works correctly and that they can enter and leave easily through it.