Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap inside your home can be a huge step for any pet owner. There are numerous options for you, no matter if your cat is getting older and requires additional security or if you have kittens that need to be vetted.

It can be intimidating for people who aren't experts in installing a cat flap, but with the proper instructions, it's simple. Preparation, planning and precision are the keys.

Select the Right Door or Window

There are a wide variety of cat flaps to choose from, some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from leaving or coming in) and others with advanced features like microchip door entry systems. It is important to consider how it is easy to train your cat to use the flap, before you buy and install one.

Depending on the design of your home, it's generally best to situate the cat flap in an opening or window that opens onto an area that is protected from the garden, so that your cat will feel secure leaving and entering the home. If possible this will also allow them a way back should they be pursued by a different cat or by a human intent to hurt them.

It's possible to install a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it's not as simple as installing one into a wood door. This is because uPVC or composite doors come in various thicknesses. This can impact the method of cutting holes, and the type of door you can fix into.

If you're installing the flap inside the glass of a door it is recommended that you consult a glazier who specialises in such work to avoid costly errors. If you're installing the flap into an existing wooden door it is recommended that you introduce your cat to it first to ensure that it becomes familiar with its size and shape.

Find out the size of your cat's belly

In order to install an appropriate cat flap that is a good fit for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's size. This will help you make sure that the flap is at the correct height on the door or window, and also that it's large enough for him to get in and leave easily.

To do this, lay your pet on their back and run your fingers gently across their belly. Feel 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, particularly when performing feline circus skills.

Alternatively, you can also use your pet's weight to determine the size of an opening you require. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg, for example the suggested flap opening size is 14 x 12cm.

Take a measurement of your door or window

This type of cat flap, as the name suggests, is designed to be installed into a door. It lets your pet enter and exit at its convenience. They are usually made from aluminum or plastic and sit in the centre of the door with an open door that opens by pushing lightly on either side. The flaps can be locked which provide extra security so your cat cannot simply traverse the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also frequently employed in windows. They are able to be easily installed, however they have to be installed at a height where cats and dogs find it difficult to get them. If the window isn't high enough to use a cat's flap, you can use ramps, steps, or specially designed stairs to aid the animal in getting to it.

A cat flap could be installed to a brick wall, but it is not recommended unless you are skilled in masonry work as it could weaken the wall's structure. It's important to check that there aren't click here any cables or pipes in the wall prior to you begin. Always consult a professional if you need to make a hole for pipes or cables. It is also recommended to wear protective goggles and a dust-proof mask to prevent inhaling any of the sawdust created by cutting into the walls of your house.

Choose the right cat flap

There are a variety of cat flaps on the market, and all offer different features. Some have security options such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition to prevent unauthorized entry and also stop your pet allowing guests or other animals more info to enter the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to keep out the elements of moisture and draughts.

There's also a variety of sizes, based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular, while others are square or circular. The type of cat flap you choose will depend on the size of the opening and the type of window or door you're fixing it to.

Also consider the mechanism for opening your cat flap will have. A simple aluminium or plastic swing-out door is an alternative and is usually the cheapest. However, it won't stop other pets or cats from entering your home and you could be letting draughts in as well.

It's time to install your cat flap. Start by marking the belly's height on the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that click here the line is 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. Next, use your jigsaw to cut out the outline of the door. get more info When you're happy with the result, sand the edges and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for the screws.

Prepare the Tools

It's important to have the right tools available when doing any DIY project. The most important things you'll require are the cat flap itself along with a tape measure, a good pencil, a spirit level, drill, file and a jigsaw (depending on the window or door type).

Consult the manufacturer before making any changes to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal to be broken. In this scenario it's likely that you will need to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass.

You'll require an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the instructions given by the manufacturer. If you can, use an example to identify the size of the hole you have to cut.

After you've made the hole, you should then smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop any water damage or rust from occurring in the future. It is also recommended to seal the holes in your door or window and the back of the cat flap to prevent wind and rain. Once the sealant has dried it is time to install your new cat-flap!

Install the Flap

Fitting a flap will allow your cat to go and come whenever it pleases. 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 an unglazed door or any other kind of uPVC door.

Look at the instructions that came with your cat flap. There is a template drawing. This will give an idea of the location where the holes will be made for the flap to be placed in the door. Mark the areas you will need to drill into with a pencil.

After you've marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw and cut out the design for the cat flap. This is a relatively easy task, but you will require a good understanding of the jigsaw. Numerous companies will perform this for you for a reasonable price if you are hesitant to tackle it yourself.

Then, attach the outer part to the hole in your door. here It is possible to apply sealant before doing this to ensure it remains weather-proof and water resistant. You can then put the outer part of the cat flap 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 exit and enter easily.