Fitting A Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap inside your home can be a huge step for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have new kittens who require a vet check there are plenty of options out there to choose from.

Installing a cat flap could be daunting for non-professionals but with the right instructions, it's not difficult to accomplish. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and accuracy.

Choose 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 from going out or entering) and others with advanced features like microchip door entry systems. It's important to think about how easy it will be to teach your cat to use the flap before you purchase and install one.

It is recommended to put the cat flap, based on the design of your home, inside the form of a window that opens to a sheltered garden area. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering and leaving your home. This will also enable them to get back inside if they're chased by another animal or human beings who wish to hurt them.

It is possible to install a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it's not as simple as installing one in a wood door. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in different thicknesses. This can impact the method of cutting holes, and the material you put 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 costly errors. If you are Fitting A Cat Flap the flap into an existing wooden door it is recommended that you introduce your cat to it first to make sure it is familiar with its size and shape.

Measure Your Cat's Belly

You'll need the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap you choose to install is the perfect fit. This will allow you to make sure that the flap is placed at the right height on the door or window and that it is large enough for him to get in and leave easily.

To do this, put your pet on their back and run your fingers gently across their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back, face or legs. The extra padding offers your pet safety and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics felines are famous for.

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

Make sure you measure your windows or doors

This kind of cat flap, as the name suggests, is designed to be installed into the door. It allows your pet to move in and out at their convenience. These flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that opens by gently pressing on either side. These flaps can be locked that offer added security, so your cat cannot simply walk through the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also commonly employed in windows. They can be easily installed, but they need to be set at a height where cats and dogs find it difficult to get them. If the window is too high to use a cat flap then steps, ramps or purpose built stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it.

It is possible to install the cat flap onto a brickwall, but it is not recommended for people who aren't experienced in the masonry industry. This could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's essential to ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. It is recommended to consult an expert if you have to make a hole for pipes and cables. It's also advisable to wear protective goggles and a dust mask to prevent inhaling any sawdust that is created by cutting into your home's walls.

Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.

There are many cat flaps on the market, and come with various features. Some are equipped with security features such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition to stop unauthorized entry and restrict your pet from letting friends or other animals into the home. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to keep out the elements and keep out drafts.

There's also a variety of sizes, based on the size and breed of your pet. cat flap in bifold doors flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, whereas others are square or circular. The type of cat flap you select will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the type of window or door you're fixing it to.

Lastly consider the opening mechanism that your cat flap will have. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. However, it will not prevent other cats or pets from entering and you may let draughts through as well.

It's time to install your cat flap. Make a mark on the belly of the door with your ruler. Make use of a spirit-level to ensure that the line is not too low and that it is straight across the door. Create a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, you can use your Jigsaw to cut the outline in the door. When you're satisfied with the results sand down the edges and then drill through the pencil marks to make holes for screws.

Prepare the Tools

Like any DIY jobs, it's always recommended to have the proper tools to complete the task. You'll need the cat flap as well as a pencil and tape measure, a spirit-level, a drill and a jigsaw depending on the kind of window or door.

If you're installing a composite door, it is recommended to check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes because this could affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this case it's likely you will need to replace the glass with a brand new piece of toughened glass.

For wooden or upvc door panels with cat flap doors will require cutting out the design of your cat flap using the Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines given by the manufacturer. Use a template to determine the size of hole you require.

After you've cut the required hole, you should then smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This should prevent any rust or water damage from occurring in the future. Finally, you should apply any sealant you require to the rear of the cat flap and to the holes in the window or door to keep out rain and wind. When the sealant has dried, you're ready to install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to be able to move around as it pleases, fitting flaps can be helpful. Most people can install the flap on their own. However, if you want to install it in the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you might need an expert.

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

After you have marked the door on your door, you can use the jigsaw and cut out the the cat flap fitters flap. This is a relatively easy task, but you will require a good understanding of a saw. Many companies will do this task for you for a reasonable price If you're not sure how to tackle it yourself.

Then, you can screw the inside part to the hole in your door. It may be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this to keep it weatherproof and watertight. Then, you can put the outer part of the flap on top of the fixing bolts, and tighten the bolts all together. It is recommended that you test the cat flap with your cat to ensure that it is working properly and that they can get in and out of it.