Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is an excellent option for any pet owner. There are many options available for you, no matter if your cat is older and requires extra security, or you have kittens that need to be checked.

It can be difficult for those who aren't professionals to put in an animal flap, but with right instructions it's easy. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and precision.

Choose the Right Door, or Window

There's a wide selection of cat flaps that are available, some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from going out or entering) and others that have high-tech features like microchip door entry systems. However, it's important to think about how easy your cat is to train to use the flap before you buy and install one.

Depending on the style of your home It is recommended to put the cat flap near a window or door that opens out into a sheltered area of the garden so your cat can feel safe when going into and out of the house. This will also allow them to get back inside in the event of being chased by another animal or humans who want to harm them.

It is possible to install the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it's not as easy as putting one into a wood door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors are available in a variety of thicknesses, which can affect how holes are cut and the materials you're fixing them to.

To avoid costly errors, it is recommended to consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you're fitting the flap on an old wooden door, begin by the cat with it before you fit it, so that they become familiar with its shape and size and explore it from every angle.

Measure Your Cat's Belly

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

Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers across their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back, face or limbs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline acrobatics.

You can also take into account the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you require. If your cat weighs more than 5kg, for instance, the suggested cat flap size is 14x12cm.

Measure your window or door

This kind of cat flap, as its name suggests, is made to be fitted into the door. It lets your pet move in and out at their convenience. They are typically made of plastic or aluminium and simply are placed in the middle of the door. They have an open door that opens by pushing lightly on either side. The flaps can be locked that provide additional security which means that your cat can't enter the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also commonly used on windows. They are able to be easily installed, however they have to be set at an elevated level since cats and dogs have a difficult time to reach them. If the window is too high to be used as a cat flap then steps, ramps or purpose built stairs can be used to aid the animal in accessing it.

It is possible to insert the cat flap onto the brick wall, however it is not recommended for people who are not experienced in the masonry industry. This could weaken the wall's structure. It is essential to ensure that there aren't any cables and pipes inside the wall before you start. It is recommended to consult an expert when you need to make a hole for pipes or cables. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask will allow you to avoid breathing in the sawdust that is created when cutting into your walls.

Choose the right cat flap

There are numerous cat flaps available and each one comes with different features. Some flaps are equipped with security features, such as magnetic locks or microchips which prevent unauthorised entry. They also prevent your pet from letting guests or other animals into the house. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to keep out the elements and keep out drafts.

There is also a choice of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, whereas others are circular or square. The type of cat flap you pick will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the kind of door or window you're installing it to.

Last but not least, think about the opening mechanism your cat flap will use. The most affordable check here option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. But, it will not prevent other cats or pets from gaining access and you could let draughts through as well.

It's time to install your cat flap. Start by marking the height of the belly on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is sitting straight on the door and not too low. Use your spirit level to draw a sketch of the cat flap. Then, using your saw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you're happy with the result, sand the edges and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for the screws.

Make sure you have the tools ready

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

If you're installing a composite door, it is recommended to consult with the manufacturer prior to making any changes since this could cause the warranty to be invalidated or break the weathertight seal. In this case it's likely that you will need to replace the glass with a brand 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 given by the manufacturer. If you can, use an example to identify the size of hole you will need to cut.

After you've made the hole, you will have to sand the edges of the opening. This will prevent any future water damage or rust. You should also seal the holes in your window or door and the side of the flap to prevent rain and wind. After the sealant has dried, you can install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

Installing a flap allows your cat to come and go whenever it wants. It's a simple procedure that most people can complete themselves, although you'll likely require the help of an expert if you're installing the flap in an unglazed door or any other kind of uPVC door.

Take a look at the instructions included with the cat flap. There is a drawing of the template. This will provide you with an idea of where the holes for the flap need to be drilled in the door. Then, mark the areas get more infomore info where you must drill using pencil.

After you have marked the door on your door, you can use the jigsaw to cut the the cat flap. It's a relatively easy task however you'll need be comfortable with a Jigsaw. Many companies will complete this task for you for a reasonable price in case you're hesitant 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, in order to ensure it is weatherproof and watertight. You can then put the outer part of the flap check hereread more on top of the fixing bolts, and tighten them all together. You should test the cat flap on your cat to confirm that it is working correctly and that it allows them to enter and exit easily.