Fitting A Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap into your home could be a major step for any pet owner. There are a variety of options to you, regardless of whether your cat is older and requires additional security, or you have kittens who need to be vetted.

It can be intimidating for non-professionals to install a cat flap, but with the proper instructions, it's simple. The most important thing is planning, preparation and precision.

Choose the Right Door or Window

There are a wide variety of cat flaps to choose from, some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet going out or coming in) and others with high-tech features like microchip door entry systems. It is important to think about how it is easy to teach your cat how to use the flap, before you buy and install one.

It is recommended to put the cat flap, based on the style of your home, inside a window that opens into a sheltered garden area. This will allow your cat flap installers to feel safe when entering or leaving your home. If you can this will also allow them a way back should they get pursued by a different cat or by a human intent on harming them.

You can put the cat flap on a uPVC door or a glass window however, it's not as easy as putting one in the door made of wood. This is because uPVC or composite doors come in various thicknesses. This can impact the how holes are cut and the material you put into.

If you're installing the flap in glass doors it is recommended that you seek out a glazier that is skilled in this type of work to avoid any costly errors. If you're installing the flap on a wooden door, start by introducing your cat to it before you fit it so that they can get used to its shape and size and explore it from all angles.

Find out the size of your cat's belly

You'll need your cat's measurements to make sure that the cat flap you choose to install is a good fit. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is the correct height on your door or window, and that it's large enough for them to enter and exit with ease.

Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers along their belly. Look for a fat pad that is squishy around the lower back or face, or around the limbs. The padding gives your pet safety and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the acrobatics cats are famous for.

You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine how large opening you require. If your cat flap double glazing weighs at or over 5kg, for example, a 14 x 12cm cat flap opening is advised.

Make sure you measure your door or window

As the name suggests the cat flap is designed to be affixed to the door, and offers an opportunity for your pet to go in or out whenever it wants. They are usually made of plastic or aluminium and simply rest in the middle of the door. They come with a two-way swinging door that is opened by pushing lightly on either side. These flaps are available in locking versions which provide extra security so that your cat is not able to enter the door from outside.

A window is another popular place to put a cat flap and these are easy enough to install, though they are usually placed high up as it's difficult for dogs and cats to access them. If the window is not sufficient in height to be used as a cat's flap, then you can opt for ramps, steps, or specially designed stairs to assist the animal in reaching it.

It is possible to insert an egress into brick walls, however it is not recommended for those who are not experienced in masonry. This could cause the wall to weaken. It is essential to ensure that there aren't any cables or pipes in the wall prior to you start. If there are, then an opening must be made for them. This is something that you should always seek expert advice on. It's also advisable to wear safety goggles and a dust mask to prevent inhaling any sawdust that is created by cutting holes in the walls of your home.

Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.

There are many cat flaps available on the market, and come with various features. Some have security options like magnetic locks or microchips that stop unauthorized entry and restrict your pet from letting friends or other animals into the home. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to keep out the elements of moisture and draughts.

There's also a range of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular, while others are square or circular. The best type of cat flap will be dictated by the space available and the type of window or door you want to attach it to.

The last thing to do is think about the opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. But, it will not stop other pets or cats from entering your home and you could let draughts in as well.

It's time to put in your cat flap. Start by marking the belly's height on the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is exactly on the door and not too low. Utilize your spirit level to draw a template of the cat flap. Next, use your jigsaw to cut out the door's outline. Once you're happy with the results sand down the edges and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for the screws.

Make the Tools

As with all DIY jobs, it's always recommended to have the proper tools to complete the task. The most essential things you'll need are the cat flap itself as well as a tape measure, a good pencil as well as a spirit level, drill, file and the Jigsaw (depending on the window or door type).

Contact the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a composite door cat flap door. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal damaged. In this scenario, you'll probably have to install an additional pane of toughened glass instead.

For wooden or upvc door panels cat flap doors you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap using the Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines given by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to mark out the size hole you require.

After you've made the hole, you will have to sand off the edges of the opening. This will prevent any rust or water damage from happening in the near future. You should also cover the holes in your window or door and the side of the flap to block wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry, you're ready to install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

The installation of a flap will allow your cat to move around whenever it pleases. It's a simple procedure that most people can do on their own, but you may require the help of a professional if you are installing the flap in the form of a Glass cat flap Installation near me door or another type of uPVC door.

Check out the directions that came with your cat flap. You will find a drawing of the template. This will give you an idea of where holes for the flap will need to be drilled into the door. Note the areas you'll have to drill with the pencil.

Once you have marked out the door's area and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the shape of the cat flap. It's a relatively easy job, but you'll need to be comfortable with the jigsaw. If you are concerned about doing it yourself, there are a lot of companies that can complete this for you at a very low cost.

The next step is to attach the inside of the cat flap to the door's hole. You may need to seal it prior to doing this to ensure it stays watertight and weather resistant. You can then put the outer portion of the flap on the top of the fixing bolts and tighten the bolts all together. It is recommended to test the flap with your cat to ensure that it is working properly and that they are able to move easily through wall cat flap it.