Fitting a Cat Flap

Fitting a Cat Flap

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Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is a fantastic option for any pet owner. There are many options available to you, regardless of whether your cat is older and needs extra security, or you have kittens who need to be examined.

It can be a bit daunting for non-professionals to install a cat flap, but with the proper guidelines, it's easy. The key is preparation, planning and accuracy.

Select the Right Door, or Windows

There's a wide selection of cat flaps that are available, some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from going out or coming in) and others that have high-tech features such as microchips for door entry systems. It is important to think about how easy it will be to teach your cat how to use the flap before you purchase and install one.

Depending on the design of your house, it's usually best to situate the cat flap near a window or door that opens to an area of protection in the garden so that your cat will feel secure going into and out of the house. This will also enable them to return inside in the event of being chased by another animal or human who wants to hurt them.

You can put an egress flap inside a uPVC door or a glass window however, it's not as simple as fitting one into a wooden door. This is because uPVC or composite doors come in various thicknesses. This can affect the how holes are cut and the material you put into.

If you're installing the flap in glass doors, it's recommended that you seek out a glazier that is skilled in this kind of work to avoid costly mistakes. If you're installing the flap on an old wooden door, begin by introducing your cat to it prior to fitting 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

It is important to know the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you install is a good fit. This will allow you to ensure that your cat flap is at the right height for the window or door, and that it's big enough for him to get in and exit easily.

To do this, put your pet on their back and run your fingers gently across their belly. Check for any squishy fat pads which might be visible around their lower back, face or the limbs. The extra padding offers your pet safety and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics that felines are known for.

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

Measure Your Door or Window

This kind of cat flap, as its name suggests, is designed to be installed into the door. It lets your pet move in and out at their convenience. They are usually made from plastic or aluminium and simply rest in the middle of the door. They have the possibility of a swinging door that opens by pushing lightly on either side. They can be locked that provide additional security so your cat cannot simply walk through the door from outside.

A window is another popular location for a cat flap and these are easy enough to put in, but they usually need to be set up high as it is here difficult for cats and dogs to reach them otherwise. If the window is too high for a cat flap, steps, ramps or purpose constructed stairs can be used to aid the animal in accessing it.

A cat flap can also be fitted to a brick wall, but this is not recommended unless skilled in masonry work as it could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it's important to make sure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. If there are, an opening must be made for them. This is something you should always seek expert advice on. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask can allow you to avoid breathing in the dust that is generated when you cut into your walls.

Select the Right Cat Flap

There are many cat flaps available on the market, and they have various features. Some are equipped with security features like magnetic locks or microchip recognition to stop unauthorized entry and prevent your pet from allowing pets or friends into the home. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to block the elements of moisture and draughts.

There is also a choice of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, while others are circular or square. Choosing the right type of cat flap is determined by the space available as well as the type of door or window you are fitting it to.

Finally, think about the opening mechanism that your cat flap is likely to have. The most affordable option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. But, it will not stop other pets or cats from gaining access and you could let draughts through as well.

It's time to put in your cat flap. Determine the belly height of the door click here using your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is sitting exactly on the door and not too low. Use your spirit level to draw a sketch of the flap for cats. Next, use your jigsaw to 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 create holes for the screws.

Make the Tools

It's important to have the right tools when performing any DIY project. The most important things you'll require are the cat flap along with a tape measure, a good pencil and a spirit level a file, drill and the Jigsaw (depending on the windows or doors).

If you're installing a composite door, consult with the manufacturer prior to making any alterations as this may affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this instance it's likely you will need to replace the glass with a brand new piece of toughened glass.

For wooden or uPVC doors, you'll need to cut out the shape of your cat flap with the jigsaw and follow the instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to mark out the size hole you'll require.

After you've cut the required hole, you should then sand down the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop the possibility of water damage and rust. Finally, you should apply any sealant you require to the back of the cat flap and to the holes in the door or window to keep out rain and wind. Once the sealant has dried then you can put up your new cat flap!

Install the more info Flap

If you want your cat to move around at will, installing a flap can help. It's a simple procedure that most people can do on their own, but you'll likely require the assistance of a professional if you are installing the flap in an unglazed door or any other kind of uPVC door.

Start by looking at the instructions included with your cat flap to locate the drawing template. This will give you an idea of where the holes for the here flap have to be made in the door. Mark the areas you will have to drill using a pencil.

After you have marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw and cut out the the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task, but you'll require a good understanding of a saw. If you are concerned about doing it yourself, there are many companies that can do this for you at a minimal cost.

Next, you will need to attach the inside of the cat flap to the door's hole. It may be necessary to seal the flap before read more you do this in order to ensure it is weatherproof and watertight. The outer section of your cat flap could be placed on the bolts' tops and then tacked together. You should test the flap on your cat to ensure that it is working correctly and allows the cat to go in and out easily.