Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is a fantastic option for any pet owner. If your cat is old and needs extra security or you have kittens that require a thorough screening, there are plenty of options there for you.

It can be difficult for non-professionals to install an animal flap, but with right instructions it's easy. The most important thing is planning, preparation and precision.

Select the Right Door, or Windows

There are a wide variety of cat flaps available, some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from leaving or coming in) and others with advanced features such as microchip door entry systems. But, it's important to consider the ease of your cat to teach to use the flap prior to making a purchase and fit one.

It's best to place the cat flap, depending on the design of your home, inside a window that opens into a garden that is sheltered. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering or leaving your home. If you can this will also allow them a way back should they get chased by another cat or by a human intent on harming them.

It's possible to install the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as easy as putting one in a wood door. This is because uPVC or composite doors come in different thicknesses. This could affect the how holes are cut and the material you put to.

If you're installing the flap on the glass of a door it is recommended to consult a glazier who specialises in this type of work to avoid costly errors. If you're installing the flap in an old wooden door, begin by introduction of your cat to it before you fit it, so that they become familiar with its size and shape and explore it from every angle.

Find out the size of your cat's belly

In order to put in a cat flap that's the right size for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's height. This will help you make sure that the flap is at the right height on the door or window and that it's big enough for him to get in and leave easily.

To do this, place your pet on their back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Look for any fat pads that are squishy that might be visible around their lower back, face and legs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline acrobatics.

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

Take  cat flap fitting near me  of your door or window

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 constructed of plastic or aluminum and are located in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that is opened by gently pushing on either side. The flaps are available in locking versions that offer added security, which means that your cat can't enter the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also often employed in windows. They can be easily installed, however they have to be set at a high level as cats and dogs find it difficult to reach them. If the window is too high to be used as a cat flap, steps, ramps or purpose constructed stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it.

A cat flap could be installed into a brick wall but this is not recommended unless familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the wall's structure. It is important to make sure there are no cables and pipes inside the wall before you start. Always consult an expert if you have to create a hole for pipes and cables. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask can ensure that you don't breathe in the dust that is generated when cutting into your walls.

Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.

There are many different cat flaps on the market and each one comes with various features. Some cat flaps have security features such as magnetic locks or microchips that prevent unauthorized entry. They also keep your pet from allowing friends or another animal into the house. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to block out moisture and draughts.

There are various sizes that are available based on the size and breed of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, whereas others are circular or square. The type of cat flap you choose will depend on the size of the opening and the kind of door or window you're fitting it to.

The last thing to do is consider the type of opening mechanism your cat flap will use. The cheapest option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. However, it will not stop other pets or cats from gaining access and you could let draughts in as well.

It's time to put in your cat flap. Begin by marking the belly's height on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is sitting straight against the door and not too low. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, you can use your jigsaw to cut out the outline of the door. Once you are satisfied with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil markings to create holes for screws.

Make sure you have the tools ready

As with all DIY jobs, it's always advisable to make sure you have the right tools for the job. You'll need a cat flap along with a pencil and tape measure as well as a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the kind of window or door.

If you're installing in a composite door, consult with the manufacturer before making any changes because this could invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this instance you'll need to fit an entirely new pane of toughened glass instead.

You'll require an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacture. If possible, you can use an example to identify the size of the hole you need to cut.

After you've made the hole, you'll have to sand the edges of the opening. This will stop any rust or water damage from occurring in the future. You should also cover the holes in your door or window and the back of the flap to block rain and wind. Once the sealant has dried, you can install your cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to be able to move around as it pleases, fitting flaps can be helpful. Most people can install the flap by themselves. However when you plan to install it in a glass or uPVC type door, you might need an expert.

Start by looking at the instructions that come with your cat flap to locate the template. This will give you an idea of the location where the holes will be drilled for the flap to be placed in the door. Mark the areas where you need to drill with pencil.

Once you have marked out the door's opening and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a relatively simple task however you'll need be comfortable with the saw. If you are worried about doing it yourself, there are many companies that can complete this for you at a minimal cost.

Next, you will need to screw the inner part of the cat flap to the hole in your door. It might be necessary to seal the flap before you do this, in order to ensure it is waterproof and weatherproof. You can then put the outer section of the flap on top of the fixing bolts and then tighten them all. You should test the flap on your cat to confirm that it's working properly and allows them to enter and exit easily.