Fitting a Cat Flap

Getting a cat flap fitted into your home could be a big step for any pet owner. If your cat is old and requires extra security, or you have kittens who require a vet check There are plenty of options out there to choose from.

It can be intimidating for non-professionals to install a cat flap, but with the proper instructions, it's simple. Preparation, planning and precision are the key to success.

Select the Right Door or Windows

There are a wide variety of cat flaps available, some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet going out or entering) and others that have high-tech features such as 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 buy and install one.

Depending on the style of your house It is recommended to put the cat flap inside an opening or window that opens out into an area that is protected from the garden so that your cat can feel safe when entering and leaving the home. If possible it will also provide them a route back in should they be pursued by a different cat or by a human intent on harming them.

You can put a cat flap in the case of a uPVC door or glass window however it's not as easy as fitting one into a wooden door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors are available in various thicknesses, and this can impact the way holes are cut as well as the materials you're fixing them to.

If you're installing the flap inside a glass door it is recommended to consult a glazier who specialises in this kind of work to avoid any costly errors. If you're fitting the flap onto a wooden door it is recommended that you introduce your cat to it at first to ensure that it becomes familiar with its dimensions and shape.

Measure Your Cat's Belly

In order to put in an appropriate cat flap that is a good fit for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's height. This will help you 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, place your pet on their back and run your fingers gently along their belly. Feel for any fat pads that are squishy - these might be visible around their lower back, face or legs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline Acrobatics.

Alternately, you could use your pet's weight to determine the size of an opening you need. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg in weight for instance, a 14 x 12cm flap for the cat is recommended.

Make sure you measure your door or window

As the name suggests this kind of cat flap is designed to be fixed into the door, and offers a way for your pet to leave or enter whenever it wants. These flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door. They have a two-way swinging opening that can be opened by gently pushing on either side. These flaps are available with locking options that offer added security, so that your cat is not able to traverse the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also often used on windows. They are able to be easily installed, but they have to be installed at an elevated level since cats and dogs find it difficult to get them. If the window is too high for a cat flap, then ramps, steps, or specially built stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it.

It is possible to install a cat flap into a brickwall, but it is not recommended for people who aren't familiar with brickwork. This could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it is important to ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. If there are, a hole needs to be created for them and this is something you should always seek professional advice on. It is also recommended to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust protection mask to avoid breathing in any of the sawdust created by cutting into the walls of your home.

Select the Right Cat Flap

There are a variety of cat flaps on the market and they all have various features. Certain cat flaps come with security features like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also prevent your pet from allowing friends or another animal into the home. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to keep out the elements and keep out drafts.

There are  cat flap installer near me  that are available based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, whereas others are square or circular. The type of cat flap you choose will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the kind of door or window you're fitting it to.

The last thing to do is consider the type of opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is one choice and is typically the least expensive. However, it will not prevent other cats or pets from gaining access and you could let draughts in as well.

After you've chosen the correct cat flap and measured your windows or doors then it's time to install it. Mark the belly height of the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is sitting 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. Next, use your Jigsaw to cut the outline of the door. When you're satisfied with the result, sand the edges and drill through the pencil lines to create holes for the screws.

Make the Tools

It is essential to have the right tools when doing any DIY project. The main things you'll need are the cat flap itself along with a tape measure, an excellent pencil, a spirit level, drill, file and the jigsaw (depending on your windows or doors).

If you're installing a composite door, it is recommended to consult with the manufacturer prior to making any alterations because this could invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this case, it's likely that you'll have to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass.

For wooden or uPVC doors will require cutting out the shape of your cat flap using a jigsaw and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Make use of a template to determine the size of hole you need.

After you've made the hole, you'll need to sand down the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will help prevent any future water damage or rust. You should also seal the holes in your window or door and the back of the flap to keep out wind and rain. Once the sealant has dried then you can put up your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to move around whenever it wants, installing a flap can help. This is a simple process that most people can complete on their own, but you may require the assistance of an expert for installing the flap in a glass door or other type of uPVC door.

Check out the directions that came with your cat flap. You will find a template drawing. This will give an idea of where the holes will be drilled for the flap in the door. Then, mark the places in which you will have to drill using pencil.

After you've marked the area on your door, you can use the jigsaw to cut the the cat flap. It's a relatively easy task however, you'll need to be comfortable with the saw. Many companies will do this task for you at a reasonable price If you're not sure how to tackle it yourself.

Next, you will need to attach the interior part of the flap onto the hole in your door. You may need to seal it prior to doing this to ensure it remains weather-proof and water resistant. The outside of your cat flap may be placed on the bolts on top, and then securing them. It is recommended that you test the flap using your cat to make sure that it functions properly and that they can enter and leave easily through it.