Fitting A Cat Flap

Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is an excellent option for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and needs extra security or you have a new kitten who require a vet check there are a lot of options there to choose from.

It can be intimidating for those who aren't professionals to put in the cat flap, but with proper guidelines, Fitting a cat flap it's easy. The most important thing is planning, preparation and accuracy.

Select the Right Door or Windows

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

It is best to place the cat flap, based on the design of your home, in an opening that leads into an area of the garden that is protected. This will help your cat feel secure when entering and leaving your home. If possible, this will also give them a way back should they get pursued by a different cat or by a human intent to harm them.

It is possible to install a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door cat flap door, but it isn't as easy as putting one into a wood door. It's because uPVC or composite doors are available in a variety of thicknesses. This could affect the method of cutting holes, and the type of door you can fix to.

If you're installing the flap on a glass door it is recommended that you consult a glazier who specialises in this kind of work to avoid costly mistakes. If you're fitting a cat Flap the flap to a wooden door, start by introduction of your cat to it before you fit it to allow them to 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 put in a cat flap that's a good fit for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat. This will enable you to make sure that the flap is installed at the right height on the door or window, and also that it's large enough for him to enter and exit easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Look for any fat pads that are squishy - these might be visible around their lower back, face and the limbs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline Acrobatics.

Alternately, you could consider your pet's weight as a way to determine the size of an opening you need. If your cat weighs at or above 5kg in weight for instance an opening of 14 x 12cm cat flap opening is recommended.

Take a measurement of your window or door

This kind of cat flap, as its name suggests is designed to be installed into a door. It allows your pet to enter and exit at its convenience. They are typically made of aluminum or plastic and rest in the middle of the door with the possibility of a swinging door that opens by pressing lightly on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps that provide extra security, so your cat can't simply walk through from the outside.

A window is a common place to put a cat 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 is too high to be used as a cat flap then ramps, steps, or specially built stairs can be utilized to assist the animal get access to it.

Cat flaps can also be fitted into a brick wall but it is not recommended unless familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the structure of the wall. It is important to make sure there are no cables and pipes in the wall prior to you start. If there are, then a hole needs to be made for them. This is something that you should always seek expert advice on. It's also advisable to wear protective goggles and a dust mask to prevent inhaling any of the sawdust created by cutting holes in the walls of your house.

Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.

There are a variety of cat flaps available on the market, and they have different features. Some are equipped with security features such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by unauthorized persons and stop your pet allowing pets or friends into 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. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, while others are square or circular. The kind of cat flap you pick will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the type of window cat flap or door you're fixing it to.

Finally consider the opening mechanism that your cat flap will come with. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is one alternative and is usually the cheapest. It won't stop other cats and pets from entering, and you could also let in draughts.

Once you have selected the correct cat flap and measured your windows or doors with cat flap then it's time to install it. Make a mark on the belly of the door using your ruler. Use a spirit-level to make sure the line isn't too low and is straight on the door. Create a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, using your saw, cut out the outline of the door. When you're happy with the result, sand the edges and then drill through the pencil marks to make holes for screws.

Prepare the Tools

As with all DIY tasks, it's best to have the proper tools for the job. You'll require the cat flap, an eraser and tape measure along with a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the type of door or window cat flap.

If you're installing in a composite door, consult with the manufacturer before making any changes, since this could cause the warranty to be invalidated or break the weathertight seal. In this instance you'll likely have to install an entirely new pane of toughened glass instead.

For wooden or upvc door panel with cat flap doors you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap with the Jigsaw. Follow the directions given by the manufacturer. If possible, you can use an example to mark out the size of the hole you need to cut.

After you've made the hole, you must smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will help prevent future rust and water damage. It is also recommended to seal the holes in your door or window and the back of the flap to prevent wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry and dry, you can install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to move around whenever it wants, installing flaps can be helpful. It's a simple procedure that most people can do by themselves, though you may require the assistance of an expert for fitting a cat flap installing the flap in a glass door or other type of uPVC door.

Take a look at the instructions that came with the cat flap. There is a template drawing. This will give an idea of the location where the holes are to be made for the flap to be placed in the door. Mark the areas you'll have to drill using a pencil.

After you have marked the door on your door, use the jigsaw and cut out the design for the cat flap. It is a relatively simple job, but you'll require a good understanding of the jigsaw. Many companies will do this task for you for a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to tackle it yourself.

Next, you will need to attach the interior part of the flap onto the hole in your door. It may be necessary to seal the flap before you do this to keep it weatherproof and watertight. The outer section of your cat flap can be placed on top of the bolts, and then tightened together. You should test the flap on your cat to make sure that it's working properly and that it allows them to exit and enter easily.