Fitting A Cat Flap

Getting a cat flap fitted inside your home can be a huge step for any pet owner. There are a variety of options to you, regardless of whether your cat is old and requires extra security, or you have kittens who need to be examined.

Installing a cat flap can be a daunting task for novices, but with the right instructions, it's not difficult to accomplish. The key is preparation, planning and accuracy.

Select the Right Door or Windows

There are a variety of cat flaps available that come with locks (which can be used to stop your pet going out or coming in) and others with advanced features such as microchip door entry systems. It is important to consider how easy it is for your cat to train to use the flap prior to making a buy and install one.

Depending on the design of your house, it's generally best to place the cat flap in an opening or window that opens out into a sheltered area of the garden so your cat will feel secure entering and leaving the home. If you can this will also allow them a way back case they are pursued by a different cat or by a human intent to hurt them.

It is possible to install the double glazing cat flap flap on a uPVC door or glass window however, it's not as simple as fitting one into wooden doors. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in different thicknesses. This could affect the way holes are cut, and the material you put into.

If you're installing the flap in glass doors it is recommended to seek out a glazier that is skilled in such work to avoid any costly errors. If you're fitting the flap on a wooden door, start by introducing your cat flap installation cost to it prior to fitting it so that they can become familiar with its shape and size and explore it from every angle.

Find out the size of your cat's belly

In order to put in the right cat flap that's a good fit for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat's size. This will help you ensure that your cat flap in bifold doors flap is installed at the right height for the door or window and that it's big enough for him to enter and leave easily.

To do this, lay your pet on their back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Feel for any fat pads that are squishy which might be visible around their lower back, face or the limbs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline circus skills.

You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine the size of opening you require. If your cat is up to 5Kg in weight for instance an opening of 14 x 12cm cat flap opening is recommended.

Take a measurement of your door or window

This kind of cat flap, as its name suggests, is designed to be installed into the door. It lets your pet be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. They are typically made of plastic or aluminium and simply sit in the centre of the door with a two-way swinging door that opens by pressing lightly on either side. There are locks on some of these flaps that provide additional security to ensure that your cat can't simply walk through from the outside.

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

It is possible to insert an egress into brick walls, however it is not recommended for people who aren't familiar with the masonry industry. This could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's important to ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. If there are, then there must be a hole created for them and this is something that you should always seek professional advice on. Wearing protective glasses or a dust mask can help you avoid inhaling the sawdust created when cutting into your walls.

Choose the right cat flap

There are a variety of cat flaps on the market and they all have various features. Some cat flaps have security features such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also keep your pet from letting guests or other animals into the home. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to keep out draughts and moisture.

There's also a variety of sizes, based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are square or circular. The best type of cat flap will be determined by the space you have available and the type of door or window you intend to install it on.

The last thing to do is consider the type of opening mechanism your cat flap installer flap will use. The most affordable option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It will not stop other cats and pets from entering the room, and you could be letting in drafts.

It's time to install your cat flap. Mark the belly height of the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is straight against the door and not too low. Utilize your spirit level to draw a template for the cat flap. Then, using a Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. When you're satisfied with the result, sand the edges and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for the screws.

Make the Tools

Like all DIY tasks, it's best to have the appropriate tools to complete the task. You'll require the cat flap, an eraser and tape measure along with a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the kind of window or door.

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

You'll require the jigsaw to cut your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. If you can, use an example to mark out the dimensions of the hole you have to cut.

After you've cut the required 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. It is also recommended to seal the holes in your window or door and the back of the flap to block wind and rain. Once the sealant has dried it is time to install your cat flap!

Install the Flap

The installation of a flap will allow your cat to come and go whenever it wants. This is a straightforward process that most people can complete by themselves, though you may need to hire an expert if you're installing the flap on an unglazed door or any other kind of uPVC door.

Take a look at the instructions that came with your cat flap. There is an illustration of the template. This will give you an idea of where holes for the flap will need to be drilled into 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 to cut the design for the cat flap. This is a relatively simple task however, you'll need to be comfortable using a jigsaw. Numerous companies will perform this task for you at a reasonable price If you're not sure how to tackle it yourself.

Then, attach the outer part to the hole in your door. It may be necessary to seal the flap before you do this in order to ensure it is weatherproof and watertight. You can then place the outer section of the flap on top of the fixing bolts and then tighten them all together. It is recommended that you test the flap using your cat to ensure that it is working properly and that they are able to get in and out of it.