Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is an excellent option for any pet owner. There are a variety of options to you, regardless of whether your cat is older and needs extra security or you have kittens who need to be vetted.

Installing a cat flap can be a daunting task for novices, however, with the proper instructions, it's not hard to accomplish. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and accuracy.

Choose the Right Door or Windows

There are many different types of cat flaps, including some with locks that can be used to keep your pet from getting out or inside, and others that have high tech features like microchip door entry system. However, it's important to consider how easy it is for your cat to train to use the flap prior to making a purchase and fit one.

Depending on the style of your house, it's generally best to place the cat flap near a window or door that opens onto an area that is protected from the garden, so that your cat is secure when going into and out of the house. If possible, this will also give them a route back in should they be chased by a cat or by humans intent on harming them.

It's possible to install a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as easy as putting one on a wooden door. It's because uPVC or composite doors are available in different thicknesses. This could affect the how holes are cut and the type of door you can fix to.

To avoid costly errors It is recommended that you consult an expert glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you're installing the flap on a wooden door, start by introduction of your cat 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 suitable for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat. This will ensure that the flap is the correct height on your window or door and that it's big enough to allow them to enter and exit with ease.

To do this, put your pet on their back and run your fingers gently along their belly. Check for any squishy fat pads - these could be visible on their lower back, face and limbs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline circus skills.

You can also make use of your pet's weight to determine the size of the opening you'll need. If your cat weighs at or above 5kg in weight, for example that's a 14x12cm flap for your cat is recommended.

Take a measurement of your door or window

This type of cat flap, as the name suggests is made to be fitted into the door. It lets your pet enter and exit at its convenience. They are usually made from plastic or aluminium and simply are placed in the middle of the door. They come with a two-way swinging door that is opened by pushing lightly on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps, which provide extra security, so your cat won't be able to simply walk through from the outside.

Cat flaps are also commonly used on windows. They can be easily installed, however they have to be installed at a height where 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 help the animal access it.

It is possible to install the cat flap onto a brickwall, but it is not recommended for those who aren't familiar with the masonry industry. This could cause the wall to weaken. It is essential to ensure that there aren't any cables and pipes within the wall click here before you start. If they are, an opening must be created for them and this is something that you should always seek expert advice on. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask can ensure that you don't breathe in the sawdust that is created when cutting through your walls.

Select the Right Cat Flap

There are numerous cat flaps available on the market, and they all offer different features. Some have security options such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that stop unauthorized entry and cat flap installation prevent your pet from allowing friends or other animals into the home. Some have weatherproof seals and insulation to block out the elements and keep out drafts.

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. Choosing the right type of cat flap will be determined by the space you have available as well as the type of window or door you intend to install it on.

Lastly, think about the mechanism to open your cat flap will have. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. But, it will not stop other pets here or cats from gaining access and you could be letting draughts in as well.

Once you've selected the correct cat flap and measured your window or door, it's time to fit it. Mark the belly height of the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is sitting exactly on the door and not too low. Utilize your spirit level to draw a template of the flap for cats. Then, use a Jigsaw to cut the outline in the door. Once you're happy with the result, sand the edges and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for screws.

Make sure you have the tools ready

It's important to have the right tools available when doing any DIY project. The most essential things you'll need are the cat flap, a tape measure and an excellent pencil, a spirit level, a file, drill and the Jigsaw (depending on the window or door type).

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

You'll need to use the jigsaw to cut your cat flap on wooden composite door cat flap or uPVC door. Follow the directions given by the manufacturer. If you can, use an example to mark out the size of hole you have to cut.

After you've cut the required hole, you'll need to smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This should prevent any rust or water damage from happening in the future. You should also cover the holes in your window or door and the back of the flap to prevent wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry then you're now ready to put in your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

Installing a flap allows your cat to go and come whenever it pleases. This is a simple process that most people can accomplish by themselves, though you'll likely require the help of a professional if you are installing the flap on the form of a glass door or another type of uPVC door.

Start by looking at the instructions that come with the flap to locate the drawing template. This will provide you with an idea of where holes for the flap will need to be made in the door. Mark the areas you'll need to drill in with the pencil.

After you've marked the area 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 have to be comfortable using the jigsaw. Many companies will do this task for you at a reasonable price If you're not sure how to tackle it yourself.

The next step is to screw the inner part of the flap onto the hole in your door. It may be necessary to seal the flap before you do this in order to keep it weatherproof and watertight. The outside of your cat flap can be placed on website the bolts on top, and then securing them. It is recommended to test the flap using your cat to ensure that it is working properly and that they can move easily through it.