Fitting A Cat Flap

Getting a cat flap fitted into your home could be a big step for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and needs extra security or you have a new kitten that need to be vetted, there are plenty of options out there to choose from.

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

Select the Right Door or Window

There are a variety of cat flaps, some with locks that can be used to stop your pet from leaving or inside, and others that have high tech features like microchip door entry systems. It is important to consider the ease of your cat to train to use the flap before you buy and install one.

It is recommended to put the cat flap, based on the design of your home, in the form of a window that opens to a garden that is sheltered. This will help your cat feel secure when entering or leaving your home. If possible, this will also give them a way back case they are chased by another cat or by humans intent to harm them.

You can install the cat flap on the form of a upvc door panel cat flap door or glass window however, it's not as simple as fitting one into the door made of wood. It's because uPVC or composite doors are available in different thicknesses. This could affect the method of cutting holes, and the type of door you can fix to.

If you're installing the flap on glass doors it is recommended to consult a glazier who specialises in this type of work to avoid any costly mistakes. If you're fitting a cat flap the flap to a wooden door, you should introduce your cat to it first so that it can become familiar with its dimensions and shape.

Measure Your Cat's Belly

In order to install the right cat flap that's the right size for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat flap step (resource for this article). This will help you ensure that the flap is at the right height for your window or door and that it's big enough to allow them to enter and exit easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Look for any squishy fat pads which may be visible around their lower back door with cat flap fitted, face and limbs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline circus skills.

You can also take into account the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you require. If your cat weighs more than 5Kg, for example the suggested cat flap opening size is 14 x 12cm.

Take a measurement of your door or window

This type of cat flap, as its name suggests is made to be fitted into a door. It lets your pet move in and out at their convenience. The flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and sit in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that is opened by lightly pushing on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps, which provide additional security to ensure that your cat isn't able to traverse through the door from outside.

A window is another popular place to put a cat flap, and they are simple enough to put in, but they are usually located high enough as it's difficult for cats and dogs to reach them otherwise. If the window is not sufficient in height to be used as a cat's flap, then you can make use of ramps, steps or specially designed stairs to assist the animal in reaching it.

It is possible to put an egress into a brickwall, but it is not recommended for people who aren't familiar with masonry. This could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's important to ensure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. Always consult a professional if you need to create a hole for pipes or cables. It is also recommended to wear safety goggles and a dust protection mask to avoid inhaling any sawdust generated by cutting into the walls of your home.

Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.

There are many cat flaps on the market, and they have various features. Some cat flaps have security features such as microchip recognition or magnetic locks that prevent unauthorized entry. They also keep your pet from allowing friends or animals to enter the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to keep out the elements of moisture and draughts.

There are different sizes that are available based on the breed and size of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are circular or square. The kind of cat flap you select will depend on the size of the opening and the kind of door or window you're fixing it to.

Also think about the mechanism to open your cat flap is likely to have. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. However, it won't stop other pets or cats from entering and you may let draughts in as well.

Once you've selected the correct cat flap and measured your window or door and window, it's now time to put it in place it. Start by marking the belly's height on the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is sitting exactly on the door and not too low. Create a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, using your jigsaw, cut out the outline of the door. When you're happy with the results sand down the edges and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for the screws.

Prepare the Tools

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

If you're installing a composite door, it is recommended to check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes, because this could invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this instance it's likely that you'll have to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.

You'll need to use a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap bifold doors flap from a wooden or upvc door panel replacement cat flap door. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacture. Make use of a template to mark the size hole you'll require.

After you've made the hole, you will have to sand off the edges of the opening. This will stop future rust and water damage. Finally, you should apply any necessary sealant to the rear of the cat flap and to the holes in the window or door to keep out rain and wind. When the sealant has dried, you're ready to install 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. Most people can put in the flap themselves. However, if you want to put it in the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you might need a professional.

Take a look at the instructions included with the cat flap. You will find an illustration of the template. This will give you an idea of where holes for the flap have to be made in the door. Mark the areas that you'll need to drill with the pencil.

After you have mapped out the area in your door, use a jigsaw to cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a relatively simple job however you'll need be comfortable using a jigsaw. Numerous companies will perform this work for you for a reasonable price If you're not sure how to do it yourself.

The next step is to attach the inside of the flap onto the hole in your door. It is possible to seal the flap prior to you do this in order to keep it weatherproof and watertight. The outer section of your cat flap may be placed on the bolts' tops and then tacked together. You should test the flap on your cat to make sure that it's working properly and that it allows the cat to go in and out easily.