Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in your home is a fantastic step for any pet owner. There are many options available for you, no matter if your cat is getting older and requires additional security or you have kittens that need to be examined.

It can be a bit daunting for those who aren't professionals to put in an animal flap, but with proper instructions, it's simple. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and precision.

Select the Right Door or Windows

There are a variety of cat flaps that are available that come with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from leaving or coming in) and others that have high-tech features such as microchip door entry systems. But, it's important to think about how easy it is for your cat to teach to use the flap before you buy and install one.

Based on the style of your house, it's generally best to place the cat flap near an opening or window that opens onto a sheltered area of the garden so your cat can feel safe when entering and leaving the home. If possible this will also allow them a route back in should they get chased by another cat or by a human intent to harm them.

It is possible to install an egress flap inside the case of a replacement upvc door panel with cat flap door or glass window, but it's not as easy as putting one in the door made of wood. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in various thicknesses. This can affect the way holes are cut, and the material you put to.

To avoid costly errors It is recommended that you consult an expert glazier prior to installing the flap on a door with a glass cat Flap installation near me front. If you're fitting the flap on a wooden door, start by the cat with it before you fit it so that they can get used to its shape and size and explore it from all angles.

Find out the size of your cat's belly

It is important to know the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap you choose to install is a good fit. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is at the correct height on your door or window, and that it's wide enough for them to enter and exit easily.

To do this, put your pet on their back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Look for a fat pad that is squishy around the lower back and face, as well as the limbs. 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 more than 5Kg, for example, the suggested cat flap opening size is 14x12cm.

Measure Your Door or Window

Like the name suggests the cat flap is designed to be affixed to the door, and offers a way for your pet to leave or enter at any time it wishes. They are usually made from plastic or aluminium and simply sit in the centre of the door. They have a two-way swinging door that opens by pushing lightly on either side. They are available in locking versions 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, and they're easy enough to fit, although they are usually placed high up as it's difficult for dogs and cats to reach them otherwise. If the window is too high to be used as a cat flap, then ramps, steps or specially constructed stairs can be used to help the animal access it.

It is possible to insert the cat flap onto brick walls, however it is not recommended for those who aren't familiar with the masonry industry. This could weaken the structure of the wall. It's important to check that there are no cables and pipes within the wall before you begin. Always consult an expert when you need to create a hole for pipes and cables. Wearing protective glasses or a dust mask can allow you to avoid breathing in the sawdust created when you cut into your walls.

Choose the right cat flap

There are numerous cat flaps available and each one comes with different features. Some are equipped with security features such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition to block entry by unauthorized persons and prevent your pet from allowing friends or other animals into the house. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to keep out draughts and moisture.

There are various sizes that are available based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular, while 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 window or door you intend to install it on.

The last thing to do is think about the opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It will not stop other cats and pets from entering, and you could also be letting in draughts.

Once you have selected the appropriate cat flap insulation flap and measured your window or door and window, it's now time to put it in place it. 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 sitting straight against the door and not too low. Create a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, use a Jigsaw to cut the outline in the door. When you're satisfied with the result, sand the edges and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for the screws.

Make the Tools

It is essential to have the right tools available when undertaking any DIY project. You'll need a cat flap as well as tape measure and pencil as well as a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the kind of door or window.

Check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal broken. In this instance, you'll probably have to install an additional 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 that are provided by the manufacturer. If possible, you can use an outline to help determine the dimensions of the hole you'll will need to cut.

After you've made the hole, you'll need to sand the edges of the opening. This will prevent any rust or water damage from occurring in the future. It is also recommended to cover the holes in your door or window and the back of the cat flap to keep out rain and wind. After 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 go and come as it pleases, fitting a flap can help. It's a simple procedure that most people can complete on their own, but you'll likely require the help of an expert for installing the flap on a glass door or other type of uPVC door.

Check out the directions included with your cat flap. There is an illustration of the template. This will give an idea of where the holes are to be drilled for the flap in the door. Mark the areas you'll have to drill with the pencil.

After you have marked the door on your door, you can use the jigsaw to cut the design for the cat flap. This is a relatively easy task, but you will need to be comfortable using a Jigsaw. If you are worried about doing it yourself, there are plenty of companies that can do this for you at a very low cost.

Next, you will need to attach the interior part of the cat flap to the hole in your door. It may be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this in order to keep it waterproof and weatherproof. You can then place the outer part of the cat flap on the top of the fixing bolts and tighten them all together. You should test the cat flap on your cat to ensure that it functions properly and allows them to enter and exit easily.