Fitting A Cat Flap

Getting a cat flap fitted in to your home can be a big step for any pet owner. There are a variety of options for you, whether your cat is old and requires additional security or if you have kittens that need to be checked.

Installing a cat flap can be intimidating for people who aren't professionals, however, with the proper instructions, it's not hard to complete. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and precision.

Select the Right Door, or Windows

There's a wide selection of double glazing cat flap flaps to choose from including some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from leaving or coming in) and others with advanced features such as microchip 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.

It is recommended to put the cat flap, depending on the design of your house, in an opening that leads into a sheltered garden area. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering or leaving your home. If you can it will also provide them a way back should they get chased by a cat or by a human intent to hurt them.

You can install the cat flap on the case of a uPVC door or a glass window however it's not as straightforward as putting one in wooden doors. It's because uPVC or composite doors are available in a variety of thicknesses. This could affect the way holes are cut, and what you fix to.

To avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended to consult an expert glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you're fitting the flap to an old wooden door, begin by the cat with it before you fit it to allow them to become familiar with its shape and size, and explore it from every angle.

Measure Your Cat's Belly

You'll need your cat's measurements to make sure that the cat flap you put in is a perfect fit. This will allow you to make sure that the flap is at the right height for the window or door, and that it is large enough for him to get in and exit easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers along their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back, face or limbs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline acrobatics.

Alternately, you could make use of your pet's weight to determine the size of the opening you'll need. If your cat weighs more than 5kg, for instance the suggested cat flap opening size is 14 x 12cm.

Measure Your Door or Window

As the name suggests this kind of cat flap is designed to be affixed to the door, and offers the pet with a way to go in or out at any time it wishes. These flaps are made of plastic or aluminum and sit in the middle of the door. They have a two-way swinging opening that is opened by gently pushing on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps, which provide additional security to ensure that your cat isn't able to enter the door from the outside.

Cat flaps are also frequently used on windows. They can be easily installed, but they need to be installed at a high level as cats and dogs have a difficult time to reach them. If the window is not sufficient in height to be used as a cat's flap, you can opt for steps, ramps or specially designed stairs to aid the animal in getting to it.

A cat flap can be installed into a brick wall but this is not recommended unless you're experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the structure of the wall. It is essential to ensure that there aren't any cables and pipes in the wall prior to you begin. It is recommended to consult a professional if you need to create a hole for cables and pipes. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask can ensure that you don't breathe in the dust that is generated when you cut into your walls.

Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.

There are numerous cat flaps on the market and each one comes with various features. Some have security options like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that stop unauthorized entry and stop your pet allowing pets or friends into the home. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to keep out draughts and moisture.

There are different sizes to choose from based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular, while others are square or circular. The kind of cat flap you pick will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the type of window or door you're fitting it to.

Last but not least, take into consideration the kind of opening mechanism your cat flap will use. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It won't stop other pets and cats from entering however, and you could be letting in drafts.

Once you've selected the correct cat flap and measured the door or window then it's time to install it. Make a mark on the belly of the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that 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. 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

It's important to have the right tools for doing any DIY project. You'll require the cat flap, an eraser and tape measure, a spirit-level, a drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the kind of window or door.

If you're installing a composite door, consult with the manufacturer prior to making any changes since this could invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this case it's likely that you'll need to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass.

You'll need an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap insulation flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions given by the manufacturer. Make use of a template to mark the size hole you require.

After you've made the hole, you should then sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop any water damage or rust from happening in the near future. You should also cover the holes in your door or window and the back door with cat flap fitted of the cat flap to prevent rain and wind. When the sealant has dried then you're now ready to put in your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to be able to move around at will, installing flaps can be helpful. The majority of people can install the flap on their own. However, if you want to put it in the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you might need a professional.

Look at the instructions included with the cat flap. You will find a drawing of the template. This will give you an idea of the location where holes need to be made for the flap to be placed in the door. Mark the areas where you have to drill using pencil.

After you've marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw and cut out the the cat flap glass door installation near me flap. This is a relatively easy task, but you will require a good understanding of a Jigsaw. If you are worried about doing it yourself, there are many businesses that can handle this for you at a minimal cost.

Then, attach the outer part of the door to the hole in your door. It is possible to seal the flap before you do this in order to keep it weatherproof and watertight. You can then place the outer section of the cat flap on top of the fixing bolts and then tighten them all. It is recommended that you test the cat flap with your cat to ensure that it works correctly and that they can move easily through it.