Fitting a Cat Flap

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

It can be intimidating for those who aren't professionals to put in an animal flap, but with the proper instructions, it's simple. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and accuracy.

Select the Right Door or Windows

There's a wide selection of cat flaps to choose from including some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet going out or coming in) and others with high-tech features such as microchips for door entry systems. It is important to consider how easy it is for your cat to teach to use the flap prior to making a purchase and install one.

Depending on the style of your home, it's generally best to situate the cat flap inside the form of a door or window that opens onto an area that is protected from the garden so your cat is secure when entering and leaving the home. This will also allow them to return inside in the event of being chased by other animals or humans who want to hurt them.

It's possible to put a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it's not as simple as installing one on a wooden door. It's because uPVC or composite doors are available in a variety of thicknesses. This could affect the how holes are cut and the material you put into.

If you're installing the flap inside the glass of a door it is 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 the cat with it prior to fitting it to allow them to become familiar with its size and shape and explore it from every angle.

Measure Your Cat's Belly

In order to install the right cat flap that's suitable for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat. This will enable you to make sure that the flap is installed at the correct height on the door or window and also that it's large enough for him to get in and exit easily.

To do this, put your pet on their back and run your fingers gently along their belly. Check for any squishy fat pads - these may be visible around their lower back, face, and limbs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline circus skills.

You can also use the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you need. If your cat is up to 5Kg in weight, for example an opening of 14 x 12cm flap for the cat is advised.

Take a measurement of your door or window

This type of cat flap, as the name suggests is designed to be installed into a door. It allows your pet to move in and out at their convenience. They are usually made from plastic or aluminium and simply are placed in the middle of the door with the possibility of a swinging door that opens by pressing lightly on either side. There are locks on some of these flaps that offer additional security to ensure that your cat won't be able to simply enter the door from the outside.

A cat flaps window is a common place to put a cat flap, and they are simple enough to fit, although they usually need to be set up high as it is difficult for dogs and cats to access them. If the window is too high to be used as a cat flap then steps, ramps or purpose built stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it.

It is possible to put an egress into the brick wall, however it is not recommended for those who aren't familiar with the masonry industry. This could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it is important to ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. If there are, then an opening must be created for them and this is something you should always seek expert advice on. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask can ensure that you don't breathe in the sawdust that is created when you cut into your walls.

Choose the right cat flap

There are many cat flaps on the market, and they come with different features. Some come with security options such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition to prevent unauthorized entry and also stop your pet allowing friends or other animals into the home. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to keep out draughts and moisture.

There is also a choice of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are available in rectangular shapes, while others are square or circular. The type of cat flap you pick will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the kind of door or window you're fixing it to.

Lastly, think about the opening mechanism that your cat flap will come with. A simple aluminium or plastic swing-out door is one alternative and is usually the cheapest. It will not stop other pets and cats from entering however, and you could be letting in draughts.

It's time to put in your cat flap. Begin by marking the belly height on the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure website that the line is sitting straight on the door and not too low. Utilize your spirit level to draw a template of the flap for cats. Then, using a Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. When you're happy with the results sand down the edges and then drill through the pencil lines to make holes for the screws.

Make the Tools

It's essential to have the right tools for performing any DIY project. You'll need the cat flap along with an eraser and tape measure as well as a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the type of door or window.

Contact the manufacturer prior to making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to be damaged. In this instance it's likely that you will need to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.

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

After you've made the hole, you'll need to sand the edges of the here opening. This will prevent the possibility of water damage and rust. You should also cover the holes in your window or door and the back of the flap to block wind and rain. Once the sealant has dried cat flap glass door installation near me it is time to install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

Installing a flap allows your cat to come and go whenever it pleases. Most people can put in the flap themselves. However, if you want to install it in glass or uPVC type door, you may need an expert.

Look at the instructions included with the cat flap. There is an illustration of the template. This will give you an idea of the location where the holes will be drilled to install the flap to be placed in the door. Mark the areas where you need to drill with a pencil.

After you have mapped out the area in your door and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the shape of the cat flap. It is a relatively simple job, but you'll need to be comfortable using the Jigsaw. Many companies will complete this task for you at a reasonable cost If you're not sure how to take on the task yourself.

The next step is to attach the inside of the cat flap to the hole in your door. You may have to seal it prior to making this move to ensure it is weather and water resistant. The outer part of your cat flap could be placed on top of the bolts, and then tacked together. You should test the cat flap on your cat to make sure that it's working properly and allows them to exit and enter easily.