Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap inside your home can be a major step for any pet owner. There are many options available for you, no matter if your cat is older and requires extra security or if you have kittens who need to be vetted.

Installing a cat flap could be a daunting task for novices, but, with the right instructions, it's not difficult to complete. Planning, preparation and precision are the most important factors.

Choose the Right Door or Window

There are many different types of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to prevent your pet from getting out or in, while others have advanced features like microchips for door entry system. It is important to consider how easy it will be to teach your cat flap installation in glass doors near me how to use the flap before you buy and install one.

Depending on the style of your home, it's usually best to situate the cat flap installation flap in the form of a door or window that opens onto an area of protection in the garden, so that your cat can feel safe when leaving and entering the home. This will also enable them to get back inside in the event of being chased by other animals or human beings who wish to harm them.

It's possible to put a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as simple as installing one on a wooden door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors are available in different thicknesses, and this can impact the way holes are cut and what you're fixing into.

To avoid costly mistakes to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended to consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a door with a glass front. If you're installing the flap to the door made of wood, start by introducing your cat to it before you fit it to allow them to be familiar with its size and shape and explore it from all angles.

Take a look at your cat's belly measurement

In order to install a cat flap that's suitable for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's size. This will help you ensure that the cat flap is installed at the right height for the door or window and also that it's large enough for him to enter and leave easily.

To do this, lay your pet on their back and gently rub your fingers along their belly. Feel for any squishy fat pads that could be visible on their lower back, face or legs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline acrobatics.

Alternately, you could consider your pet's weight as a way to determine the size of the opening you need. If your cat weighs 5Kg, for example, the suggested cat flap size is 14 x 12cm.

Measure Your Door or Window

This kind of cat flap, as its name suggests is made to be fitted into a door. It allows your pet to move in and out at their convenience. They are typically made of plastic or aluminium and simply sit in the centre of the door. They come with an open door that opens by pushing lightly on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps that offer added security so your cat won't be able to simply traverse through wall cat flap the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also frequently used on 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 access them. If the window is too high to use a cat flap then steps, ramps or purpose constructed stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it.

A cat flap installer near me flap could be installed into a brick wall, however this is not recommended unless you are experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it is important to make sure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. You should always consult an expert if you have to make a hole for pipes or cables. Wearing protective glasses or a dust mask will help you avoid inhaling the sawdust that is created when you cut into your walls.

Select the Right Cat Flap

There are many cat flaps that are available on the market, and they come with different features. Some come with security options like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by unauthorized persons and stop your pet allowing friends or other animals into the home. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals that keep out water and drafts.

There are various sizes available depending on the breed and size of your pet. Certain cat flaps are available in rectangular shapes, while others are square or circular. The type of cat flap you select will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the kind of door or window you're fitting a Cat flap it to.

Lastly consider the mechanism to open your cat flap will come with. A simple aluminum or plastic swing-out door is one alternative and is usually the least expensive. It won't stop other animals and cats from entering however, 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 sitting straight against the door and not too low. Utilize your spirit level to draw a template of the flap for cats. Then, using a saw, cut out the outline of the door. When you're satisfied with the result, sand the edges and then drill through the pencil marks to make holes for the screws.

Make the Tools

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

If you're installing in a composite door, you should consult with the manufacturer before making any alterations since this could affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this scenario you'll need to fit a new pane of toughened glass instead.

You'll require a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap on wooden or upvc cat flap door panels door. Follow the instructions given by the manufacturer. Make use of a template to mark the size hole you'll require.

After you have cut the hole, you'll have to sand the edges of the opening. This will prevent the possibility of water damage and rust. You should also seal the holes in your window or door and the back of the cat flap to prevent wind and rain. After the sealant has dried, you can install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

Fitting a flap will allow your cat to go and come whenever it wants. Most people can put in the flap themselves. However should you wish to install it in a glass or uPVC type door, you might need a professional.

Take a look at the instructions that came with your cat flap. You will find a template drawing. This will give you an idea of where the holes are to be drilled to install the flap to be placed in the door. Note the areas you'll have to drill using pencil.

After you have marked the door on your door, you can use the jigsaw to cut the design for the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task, but you'll require a good understanding of a jigsaw. Numerous companies will perform this task for you at a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to take on the task yourself.

Then, screw the inner part to the hole of your door. It is possible to seal the flap before you do this, in order to keep it weatherproof and watertight. The outer part of your cat flap could be placed on the bolts on top, and then securing them. You should test the flap on your cat to confirm that it functions properly and that it allows them to exit and enter easily.