Fitting A Cat Flap

Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is a great step for any pet owner. If your cat is old and requires extra security, or you have kittens that need to be vetted There are a lot of options there for you.

Installing a cat flap installer near me flap can be intimidating for people who aren't professionals, but, with the right instructions, it's not difficult to complete. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the most important factors.

Choose the Right Door or Windows

There's a wide selection of cat flaps to choose from including some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet going out or entering) and others with advanced features like microchip door entry systems. However, it's important to consider the ease of your cat to teach to use the flap before you buy and install one.

Depending on the design of your home, it's usually best to place the cat flap in a window or door that opens onto an area of protection in the garden so that your cat is secure when going into and out of the house. If you can, this will also give them a route back in should they be pursued by a different cat flap fitters or by a human intent to harm them.

It's possible to put the cat-flap on a upvc door panels cat flap or composite door, but it's not as easy as putting one on a wooden door. This is because uPVC and composite doors are available in different thicknesses, and this can impact the way holes are cut and what you're fixing to.

If you're installing the flap in glass doors it is recommended that you find a glazier who is experienced in such work to avoid any costly errors. If you're installing the flap in a wooden door, start by introduction of 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.

Measure Your Cat's Belly

In order to install the right cat flap that's the right size for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat's height. This will allow you to ensure that the cat flap is installed at the right height on the door or window and that it's big enough to allow him to enter and out easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back or face, or around the legs. The extra padding offers your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics that felines are known for.

Alternately, you could make use of your pet's weight to gauge how big an opening you'll need. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg in weight for instance that's a 14x12cm flap for the cat is advised.

Measure Your Door or Window

Like the name suggests this kind of cat flap is made to be attached to the door, and offers a way for your pet to go in or out as it pleases. They are usually made of plastic or aluminium and simply rest in the middle of the door with a two-way swinging door that opens by pushing lightly on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps, which provide added security so your cat won't be able to simply enter the door from the outside.

Cat flaps are also often employed in windows. They can be easily installed, however they have to be installed at a high level as cats and dogs find it difficult to access them. If the window is too high for a cat flap, steps, ramps or purpose built stairs can be used to aid the animal in accessing it.

Cat flaps can be installed into a brick wall but it is not recommended unless you're experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's important to ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. Always consult an expert if you have to make a hole for pipes or cables. It is also recommended to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust mask to prevent inhaling any sawdust that is created by cutting into the walls of your house.

Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.

There are many different cat flaps on the market and each one comes with various features. Some cat flaps have security features like magnetic locks or microchips that prevent unauthorized entry. They also stop your pet from letting friends or animals to enter the home. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to keep out draughts and moisture.

There's also a variety of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular while others are square or circular. Selecting the best cat flap will be dictated by the space available and the type of window or door you want to attach it to.

Last but not least, consider the type of opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. The most affordable option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It won't stop other animals and cats from entering, and you could also let in draughts.

Once you've selected the correct cat flap and measured the window or door then it's time to install it. Begin by marking the belly height on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit-level to make sure the line is not too low and is straight on the door. Use your spirit level to draw a sketch of the cat flap. Next, use your jigsaw to cut out the outline in the door. When you are satisfied with the result finish sanding the edges and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.

Prepare the Tools

Like all DIY tasks, it's best to have the appropriate tools for the job. The most important things you'll require are the cat flap along with a tape measure, a decent pencil as well as a spirit level, drill, file, and the Jigsaw (depending on the window or door type).

If you're installing in a composite door, you should consult with the manufacturer prior to making any changes, because this could invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this scenario, you'll probably require an additional pane of toughened glass instead.

You'll need to use a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap on wooden or replacement upvc door panel with cat flap door. Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. If you can, use an outline to help identify the dimensions of the hole you'll need to cut.

After you've made the hole, you should then smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop any water damage or rust from occurring in the future. You should also cover the holes in your door or window and the back of the cat flap to block wind and rain. Once the sealant has dried, you can install your cat flap!

Install the Flap

Fitting a flap will allow your cat to move around whenever it pleases. It's a simple procedure that most people can complete by themselves, though you may need to hire an expert for installing the flap on an unglazed door or any other kind of uPVC door.

Begin by studying the instructions that come with your cat flap to find the template drawing. This will give you an idea of where holes need to be drilled for the flap to be placed in the door. Mark the areas you'll need to drill into with pencil.

After you've marked the area on your door, you can use the jigsaw to cut the shape for the cat flap. This is a relatively easy task, but you'll require a good understanding of the saw. If you are concerned about doing it yourself, there are a lot of companies that can do this for you at a minimal cost.

The next step is to screw the inner part of the flap onto the door's hole. You may need to apply sealant prior to making this move to ensure it stays watertight and weather resistant. The outer section of your cat flap could be placed on the bolts on top, and then tacked together. It is recommended to test the flap using your cat to make sure that it works correctly and that they can get in and out of it.