Fitting A Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in your home is an excellent step for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and requires extra security, or you have new kittens who require a vet check there are plenty of options out there for you.

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

Select the Right Door or Window

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

It is best to place the cat flap, based on the style of your home, in the form of a window that opens to a garden that is sheltered. This will help your cat flap installers near me feel safe when entering or leaving your home. This will also enable them to return inside if they're chased by another animal or humans who want to hurt them.

You can install a cat flap in the form of a uPVC door or a glass window however it's not as easy as fitting one into a wooden door. It's because uPVC or composite doors come in various thicknesses. This can affect the how holes are cut and the type of door you can fix to.

If you're installing the flap in glass doors, it's recommended that you find a glazier who is experienced in this type of work to avoid costly errors. If you're installing the flap in a wooden door, start by introduction of your cat to it prior to fitting it to allow them to be familiar with its size and shape and explore it from every angle.

Find out the size of your cat's belly

It is important to know the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you install is the perfect fit. This will help you make sure that the flap is installed at the right height on the door or window and that it is large enough for him to enter and out easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Look for a fat pad that is squishy around the lower back and face, as well as the limbs. The padding gives your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the acrobatics cats are known for.

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

Make sure you measure your windows or doors

As the name suggests this kind of cat flap is made to be attached to the door, and offers a way for your pet to leave or enter as it pleases. They are usually made from aluminum or plastic and sit in the centre of the door. They have a two-way swinging door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. They can be locked that provide additional security so your cat cannot simply walk through the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also frequently used on windows. They are easy to be installed, but they have to be placed at a height where cats and dogs have a difficult time to access them. If the window is too high for a cat flap, then steps, ramps or purpose built stairs can be utilized to assist the animal get access to it.

Cat flaps can also be fitted into a brick wall, however it is not recommended unless familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the structure of the wall. It's important to check that there are no cables and pipes inside the wall before you begin. Always consult an expert when you need to create a hole for pipes and cables. It's also advisable to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust protection mask to avoid breathing in any of the sawdust created by cutting holes in your home's walls.

Choose the right cat flap

There are many different cat flaps on the market and all of them offer various features. Some cat flaps have security features, such as magnetic locks or microchips that prevent unauthorized entry. They also stop your pet from letting guests or another animal into the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to keep out the elements of moisture and draughts.

There's also a variety of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular while others are square or circular. The kind of cat flap you choose will depend on the size of the opening and the type of window or door you're installing it to.

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

It's time to put in your cat flap fitters flap. Make a mark on the belly of the door using a ruler. Use a spirit-level to ensure that the line isn't too low and that it is straight across the door. Use your spirit level to draw a sketch of the flap for cats. Then, you can use your jigsaw to cut out the outline of the door. When you're satisfied with the results sand down the edges and then drill through the pencil marks to make holes for the screws.

Make the Tools

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

Consult the manufacturer before making any changes to a door made of composite. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to become broken. In this scenario, you'll probably have to install an additional pane of toughened glass instead.

For wooden or uPVC doors, you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap using a Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines provided by the manufacturer. If possible, use a template to help you identify the size of the hole you need to cut.

After you've cut the required hole, you must smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop any rust or water damage from occurring in the future. In the end, you must apply any sealant you require to the rear of the cat flap, and to the holes in the window or door to block rain and wind. After the sealant has dried then you're now ready to put in your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to be able to move around whenever it wants, installing a flap can help. It's a simple procedure that most people can complete by themselves, though you will likely need to hire a professional if you are installing the flap on an unglazed door or any other type of uPVC door.

Take a look at the instructions included with the cat flap. There is a template drawing. This will give an idea of where the holes are to be drilled for the flap to be placed in the door. Note the areas you'll need to drill into with the pencil.

After you've marked the door's opening and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple job, but you'll need to be comfortable using a Jigsaw. Many companies will do this task for you for a reasonable price if you are hesitant to take on the task yourself.

Next, you will need to attach the inside of the cat flap to the hole in your door. You may have to apply sealant prior to doing this to ensure it stays watertight and weather resistant. The outside of your cat flap fitters near me flap may be placed on the bolts on top, and then tightened together. It is recommended that you test the flap with your cat flap installers near me to ensure that it is working properly and that they are able to get in and out of it.