Fitting A Cat Flap

Getting a cat flap fitted in to your home can be a huge step for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have a new kitten who require a vet check there are plenty of options there to choose from.

It can be intimidating for non-professionals to install an animal flap, but with the proper instructions, it's simple. Preparation, planning and precision are the most important factors.

Select the Right Door or Window

There's a wide selection of cat flaps that are available including some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from going out or entering) and others with advanced features such as microchips for door entry systems. However, it's important to think about how easy your cat is to teach to use the flap before you purchase and install one.

Depending on the design of your home It is recommended to put the cat flap in a window or door that opens onto an area that is protected from the garden so your cat is secure when going into and out of the house. If you can it will also provide them a way back case they are chased by another cat or by humans who are intent to harm them.

You can install a cat flap in a uPVC door or a glass window however, it's not as straightforward as fitting one into a wooden door. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in various thicknesses. This can affect the how holes are cut and what you fix into.

If you're installing the flap on a glass door, it's recommended that you seek out a glazier that is skilled in this kind of work to avoid any costly errors. If you're fitting a cat Flap the flap to an old wooden door, begin by the cat with it prior to fitting it, so that they become familiar with its shape and size and explore it from every angle.

Find out the size of your cat's belly

To install a cat flap that's the right size for your pet, you'll have to measure your double glazing cat flap's height. This will help you ensure that the cat flap is installed at the correct height on the door or window and also that it's large enough to allow him to enter and out easily.

To do this, lay your pet on their back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back or face, or around the limbs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline Acrobatics.

You can also use your pet's weight to determine the size of the opening you require. If your cat weighs up to 5kg, for instance the suggested cat flap opening size is 14x12cm.

Take a measurement of your windows or doors

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

cat flap glass door installation near me flaps are also often employed in windows. They are easy to be installed, however they have to be placed at a height where cats and dogs have a difficult time to get them. If the window is too high to use a cat flap, then steps, ramps or purpose built stairs can be used to help the animal access it.

It is possible to insert the cat flap onto a brickwall, but it is not recommended for people who are not experienced in the masonry industry. This could cause the wall to weaken. Before you begin, it's important to ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. If there are, then a hole needs to be made for them. This is something you should always seek professional advice on. It is also recommended to wear safety goggles and a dust-proof mask to avoid breathing in any of the sawdust created by cutting into your home's walls.

Choose the right cat flap

There are numerous cat flaps available on the market, and have various features. Certain cat flaps come with security features, such as magnetic locks or microchips which prevent unauthorised entry. They also prevent your pet from letting guests or another animal into the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to block the elements of moisture and draughts.

There are also different sizes that are available based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are available in rectangular shapes, while others are circular or square. The kind of cat flap you pick will depend on the size of the opening and the kind of door or window you're installing it to.

Also consider the opening mechanism that your cat flap will have. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. However, it won't prevent other cats or pets from entering and you may let draughts through as well.

Once you have selected the right cat flap and measured your windows or doors, it's time to fit it. Make a mark on the belly of the door using your ruler. Use a spirit-level to make sure the line is not too low and is straight on the door. Utilize your spirit level to draw a template of the cat flap. Then, use a jigsaw to cut out the outline in the door. When you're satisfied with the results sand down the edges and drill through the pencil lines to create holes for the screws.

Make the Tools

As with any DIY jobs, it's always recommended to have the right tools for the job. The main things you'll need are the cat flap itself along with a tape measure, a decent pencil as well as a spirit level, drill, file and the jigsaw (depending on your door or window cat flap type).

Consult the manufacturer before making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal broken. In this case you'll likely have to install an additional pane of toughened glass instead.

You'll need to use a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the instructions given by the manufacturer. If possible, use an outline to help determine the dimensions of the hole you'll will need to cut.

After you have cut the hole, you will need to sand the edges of the opening. This should prevent any rust or water damage from happening in the near future. Also, you should apply any necessary sealant to the rear of the cat flap and to the holes in the window or door to keep out the elements of wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry then you're now ready to put in your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to move around as it pleases, fitting flaps can aid. This is a simple process that most people can complete on their own, but you will likely require the assistance of an expert for installing the flap on an unglazed door or any other type of uPVC door.

Begin by reading the instructions that come with the flap to locate the template. This will give you an idea of where holes for the flap need to be drilled into the door. Then, mark the areas that you'll must drill using a pencil.

After you have marked the area on your door, you can use the jigsaw and cut out the shape for the cat flap. This is a relatively easy task, but you will have to be comfortable using the saw. Many companies will complete this for you at a reasonable cost if you are hesitant to tackle it yourself.

Then, you can screw the inside part to the hole in your door. It is possible to apply sealant prior to doing this to ensure it stays watertight and weather resistant. Then, you can put the outer portion of the flap on top of the fixing bolts and tighten the bolts all together. You should test the flap on your cat to make sure that it's working properly and that it allows them to exit and enter easily.