Fitting A Cat Flap

Getting a cat flap fitted inside your home can be a major step for any pet owner. If your cat is old and requires extra security, or you have a new kitten that need to be vetted There are a lot of options there to choose from.

Installing a cat flap may be intimidating for people who aren't professionals, however, with the proper instructions, it's not difficult to accomplish. The key is preparation, planning and precision.

Choose the Right Door or Windows

There are a variety of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to keep your pet from leaving or in and others with modern features such as microchips or a door entry systems. It is important to think about how it is easy to train your cat flap in upvc door panel to use the flap, before you buy and install one.

Depending on the style of your house, it's generally best to put the cat flap in the form of a door 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 you can this will also allow them a route back in should they get chased by a cat or by humans who are intent on harming them.

It is possible to install the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't the same as fitting one in a wood door. This is because uPVC and composite doors are available in various thicknesses, and this can impact the way holes are cut and what you're fixing into.

To avoid costly mistakes It is recommended to consult an expert glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If you're fitting the flap into the door made of wood, you should introduce your cat first to make sure it is familiar with its size and shape.

Find out the size of your cat flap installer's belly

It is important to know the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you choose to install is the perfect fit. This will enable you to ensure that your cat flap is placed at the right height for the door or window and that it's big enough for him to enter and out easily.

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

You can also take into account the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you require. If your cat weighs at or above 5kg in weight, for example an opening of 14 x 12cm flap for the cat is advised.

Measure your windows or doors

As the name suggests the cat flap is made to be attached to an opening and provide the pet with a way to leave or enter whenever it wants. These flaps are made of plastic or aluminum and are located in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that can be opened by gently pushing on either side. The flaps are available with locking options that offer added security, so that your cat is not able to traverse the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also commonly employed in windows. They can be easily installed, but they need to be set at a height where cats and dogs have a difficult time to get them. If the window is not high enough to use a cat's flap, you can opt for steps, ramps or stairs that are specially designed to assist the animal in reaching it.

Cat flaps can also be fitted into a brick wall, however this is not recommended unless you are experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the wall's structure. It is essential to ensure that there aren't any cables or pipes within the wall before you begin. If there are, then an opening must be created for them and this is something you should always seek expert advice on. It's also advisable to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust mask to prevent inhaling any sawdust generated by cutting through the walls of your house.

Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.

There are a variety of cat flap installation bristol flaps available on the market, and they all offer various features. Some have security options like magnetic locks or microchip recognition to stop unauthorized entry and restrict your pet from letting guests or other animals to enter the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals that keep out water and drafts.

There is also a choice of sizes based 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 select will depend on the size of the opening and the type of window or door you're installing it to.

Also, think about the mechanism to open your cat flap is likely to have. The most affordable option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It won't stop other pets and cats from entering however, and you could let in draughts.

Once you have selected the correct cat flap and measured your windows or doors then it's time to install it. Make a mark on the belly of the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is sitting straight on the door and not too low. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, using the saw, cut out the outline of the door. When you're happy with the results sand down the edges and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.

Make sure you have the tools ready

Like any DIY jobs, it's always best to have the proper tools to complete the task. You'll require the cat flap, tape measure and pencil along with a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the type 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 broken. In this scenario you'll likely have to install a new pane of toughened glass instead.

You'll require an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap from a wooden or upvc door panel with cat flap door. Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. If possible, use an outline to help identify the size of hole you need to cut.

After you've made the hole, you'll need to sand down the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop any future water damage or rust. In the end, you must apply any sealant that is needed to the rear of the cat flap, and to the holes in the window or door to block the elements of wind and rain. Once the sealant has dried, you can install your new cat-flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to move around as it pleases, fitting flaps can be helpful. Most people can put in the flap on their own. However should you wish to install it on the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you may require a professional.

Take a look at the instructions included with your cat flap. There is a template drawing. This will give you an idea of where the holes for the flap will need to be drilled into the door. Then, mark the places in which you will must drill using the pencil.

After you have marked the door on your door, you can use the jigsaw to cut the the cat flap. This is a fairly simple job, but you'll require a good understanding of a saw. Many companies will do this task for you for a reasonable price If you're not sure how to tackle it yourself.

Then, screw the inner part to the hole of your door. It may be necessary to seal the flap before you do this to ensure it is waterproof and weatherproof. You can then put the outer portion of the flap on top of the fixing bolts, and tighten them all. It is recommended that you test the flap with your cat flaps for french doors to ensure that it works correctly and that they are able to move easily through it.