Fitting A Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in to your home can be a major step for any pet owner. There are many options available for you, whether your cat is getting older and requires additional security or you have kittens that need to be checked.

It can be intimidating for people who aren't experts in installing the cat flap, but with proper guidelines, it's easy. The key is preparation, planning and precision.

Select the Right Door, or Windows

There are a wide variety of cat flaps that are available, some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet going out or coming in) and others with advanced features such as microchip door entry systems. However, it's important to think about how easy it is for your cat to train to use the flap before you purchase and fit one.

It's best to place the cat flap, based on the style of your home, inside a window that opens into a sheltered garden area. This will help your cat feel safe when entering or leaving your home. This will also allow them to get back inside if they're chased by another animal or humans who want to hurt them.

It is possible to install a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't the same as fitting one into a wood door. This is because uPVC or composite doors come in different thicknesses. This can affect the method of cutting holes, and the type of door you can fix into.

To avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended to consult an expert glazier prior to installing the flap on a door with a glass front. If you're installing the flap to an old wooden door, begin by introduction of your cat to it before you fit it, so that they get used to its shape and size and explore it from all angles.

Find out the size of your cat's belly

In order to install an appropriate cat flap that is the right size for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's size. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is at the right height on your door or window, and that it's wide enough to allow them to get in and exit easily.

To do this, put your pet on their back door with cat flap fitted and gently run your fingers along their belly. Feel for any squishy fat pads which could be visible on their lower back, face or legs. 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 take into account the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you require. If your cat weighs at or above 5kg in weight for instance, a 14 x 12cm cat flap opening is advised.

Measure your window or door

This kind of cat flap, as its name suggests is made to be fitted into the door. It lets your pet enter and exit at its convenience. They are typically made of aluminum or plastic and sit in the centre of the door. They come with an open door that opens by pressing lightly on either side. These flaps are available in locking versions which provide extra security so that your cat is not able to walk through the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also often used in windows. They are able to be easily installed, however they have to be installed at a high level as cats and dogs find it difficult to get them. If the window is not sufficient in height to be used as the flap for cats, you can use ramps, steps or stairs that are specially designed to help the animal reach it.

Cat flaps can be incorporated into a brick wall, however it is not recommended unless skilled in masonry work as it could weaken the structure of the wall. It is essential to ensure that there aren't any cables and pipes in the wall prior to you start. You should always consult an expert when you need to cut a hole in the wall for cables and pipes. It's also advisable to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust protection mask to avoid inhaling any sawdust that is created by cutting through the walls of your home.

Choose the right cat flap

There are many different cat flap in bifold doors flaps (similar web page) on the market and each one comes with different features. Some cat flaps have security features like magnetic locks or microchips that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also prevent your pet from allowing friends or another animal into the house. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals that keep out water and drafts.

There is also a choice of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are square or circular. Choosing the right type of cat flap will be determined by the space you have available and the type of door or window you are fitting cat flap in upvc door panel it to.

Finally think about the opening mechanism that your cat flap will have. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is one option and is usually the least expensive. It will not stop other pets and cats from entering however, and you could let in draughts.

It's time to install your cat flap. Start by marking the height of the belly on the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is straight 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 the Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. Once you are happy with the result finish sanding the edges and drill through the pencil marks to create holes for screws.

Prepare the Tools

As with any DIY jobs, it's always best to have the appropriate tools for the job. The most important things you'll require are the cat flap itself as well as a tape measure, an excellent pencil as well as a spirit level, drill, file and the Jigsaw (depending on the window or door type).

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 you'll likely need to fit an additional pane of toughened glass instead.

For wooden or uPVC doors with cat flap you'll need to cut out the shape of your cat flap with the Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines provided by the manufacturer. Use a template to determine the size of hole you require.

After you've cut the hole, you will need to sand the edges of the opening. This will prevent the possibility of water damage and rust. Also, you should apply any sealant that is needed to the back of the cat flap install flap, and to the holes in the door or window to keep out the elements of wind and rain. After the sealant has dried, you can install your new cat-flap!

Install the Flap

The installation of a flap will allow your cat to go and come whenever it pleases. It's a simple procedure that most people can do themselves, although you'll likely require the assistance of an expert for installing the flap in a glass door or other kind of uPVC door.

Check out the directions included with your cat flap. You will find an illustration of the template. This will give an idea of the location where the holes are to be drilled to install the flap on the door. Then, mark the areas in which you will must drill using pencil.

After you have marked the door on your door, you can use the jigsaw to cut the shape for the cat flap. This is a fairly simple job however, you'll need to be comfortable using a saw. If you are worried about doing this yourself, there are a lot of businesses that can handle this for you at a low cost.

Next, you will need to screw the inner part of the cat flap to the door's hole. It is possible to seal the flap before you do this to ensure it is waterproof and weatherproof. You can then put the outer section of the cat flap on the top of the fixing bolts and tighten the bolts all together. It is recommended to test the flap using your cat to ensure that it works correctly and that they are able to enter and leave easily through it.