Fitting A Cat Flap

Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is a fantastic option for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and needs extra security or you have a new kitten who require a vet check, there are a lot of options there for you.

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

Select the Right Door or Windows

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

Depending on the design of your house It is recommended to put the cat flap inside 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 allow them to get back inside if they're chased by other animals or human beings who wish to hurt them.

You can install a cat flap in the form of a uPVC door or glass window, but it's not as easy as fitting one into the door made of wood. This is because uPVC and composite doors are available in a variety of thicknesses, which can affect the way holes are cut as well as the material you're fixing it to.

If you're installing the flap on glass doors with cat flap it is recommended to seek out a glazier that is skilled in such work to avoid costly mistakes. If you're installing the flap to the door made of wood, you should introduce your cat to it first to make sure it is familiar with its size and shape.

Find out the size of your cat flap step's belly

You'll need your cat's measurements to ensure that the cat flap you choose to install is the perfect fit. This will ensure that the flap is the right height for your door or window, and that it's large enough to allow them to enter and exit easily.

To do this, lay your pet on their back and gently rub your fingers across their belly. Look for any squishy fat pads that might be visible around their lower back, face or the limbs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline Acrobatics.

You can also use the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you need. If your cat weighs more than 5kg, for instance the suggested flap size is 14x12cm.

Take a measurement of your windows or doors

The name implies, this type of cat flap is designed to be affixed to a door and provides a way for your pet to leave or enter whenever it wants. They are typically made of aluminum or plastic and rest in the middle of the door. They come with an open door that opens by pushing lightly on either side. These flaps can be locked that offer added security, so that your cat is not able to walk through the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also frequently used on windows. They are easy to be installed, however they have to be set at an elevated level since cats and dogs have a difficult time to reach them. If the window is too high for a cat flap, steps, ramps or purpose built stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it.

cat flap cost flaps can be installed to a brick wall, but it is not recommended unless you're experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's essential to ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. You should always consult a professional if you need to make a hole for cables and pipes. It's also advisable to wear protective goggles and a dust-proof mask to prevent inhaling any sawdust generated by cutting holes in the walls of your home.

Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.

There are many different cat flaps available and each one comes with different features. Some come with security options such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by unauthorized persons and stop your pet allowing friends or other animals into the house. Some also have insulation and 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. Some cat flaps are rectangular while others are circular or square. The best type of cat flap will be dictated by the space available and the kind of window or door you intend to install it on.

Also think about the mechanism to open your cat flap will have. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. It won't prevent other pets and cats from entering, and you could also let in draughts.

After you've chosen the appropriate cat flap and measured your windows or doors, it's time to fit it. Begin by marking the belly's height on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit-level to make sure that the line is not too low and is straight on the door. Create a template for the shape of the cat flaps for french doors flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, using a jigsaw, cut out the outline of the door. When you're satisfied with the result, sand the edges and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for the screws.

Make sure you have the tools ready

Like any DIY tasks, it's recommended to have the right tools for the job. The most important things you'll require are the cat flap as well as a tape measure, a good pencil and a spirit level a file, drill and a Jigsaw (depending on your door or window type).

Consult the manufacturer before making any changes to a door made of composite. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal to be damaged. In this case it's likely you'll need to replace the glass with a brand new piece of toughened glass.

For wooden or uPVC doors will require cutting out the design of your cat flap using the Jigsaw. Follow the directions given by the manufacturer. If possible, use an example to determine the size of the hole you'll will need to cut.

After you've cut the hole, you'll have to sand off the edges of the opening. This will help prevent the possibility of water damage and rust. Finally, you should apply any sealant you require to the rear of the cat flap as well as to the holes in the door or window to keep out rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry then you're now ready to put in your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to be able to come and go as it pleases, fitting flaps can be helpful. It's a simple procedure that most people can accomplish on their own, but you may require the help of an expert if you're installing the flap on an unglazed door or any other type of uPVC door.

Begin by reading the instructions included with your cat flap to find the template. This will give you an idea of where the holes will be made for the flap on the door. Mark the areas that you'll need to drill with a pencil.

After you've marked the door's area then use a jigsaw cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a relatively easy job, but you'll have to be comfortable using the Jigsaw. Numerous companies will perform this task for you at a reasonable price If you're not sure how to tackle it yourself.

The next step is to screw the inner part of the cat flap to the hole in your door. You may have to apply sealant before doing this to ensure that it remains weather-proof and water resistant. You can then place the outer part of the cat flap on top of the fixing bolts, and tighten them all. It is recommended to test the flap using your cat to make sure that it works correctly and that they are able to enter and leave easily through it.