Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap your home is an excellent option for any pet owner. If your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have new kittens who require a vet check there are plenty of options there to choose from.

It can be a bit daunting for those who aren't professionals to put in a cat flap, but with proper instructions, it's simple. Preparation, planning and precision are the keys.

Choose the Right Door, or Window

There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, some with locks that can be used to prevent your pet from leaving or in, while others have modern features such as microchips or a door entry system. It's important to think about how easy it will be to teach your cat how to use the flap before you purchase and install one.

Based on the style of your home, it's generally best to situate the cat flap in a window or door that opens out into an area that is protected from the garden so your cat is secure when leaving and entering the home. If you can it will also provide them a route back in should they be pursued by a different cat or by a human intent on harming them.

You can put the cat flap on the form of a uPVC door or glass window however it's not as easy as fitting one into the door made of wood. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors come in various thicknesses, which can affect how holes are cut and the material you're fixing it to.

To avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended that you consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you're fitting the flap to the door made of wood, start by introduction of your cat to 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

You'll need the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap you choose to install is a good fit. This will allow you to ensure that the cat flap is placed at the right height for the door or window and also that it's large enough for him to enter and exit easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back, face or legs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline circus skills.

Alternately, you could consider your pet's weight as a way to gauge how big an opening you need. If your cat weighs more than 5kg, for instance, the suggested cat flap size is 14x12cm.

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 enter and exit at its convenience. These flaps are constructed of plastic or aluminum and are placed in the middle of the door. They have a two-way swinging opening that is opened by gently pushing on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps that offer added security so your cat can't simply walk through from the outside.

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

A cat flap can be installed into a brick wall but it is not recommended unless skilled in masonry work as it could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it is important to ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. You should always consult a professional if you need to create a hole for cables and pipes. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask can allow you to avoid breathing in the dust that is generated when cutting into your walls.

Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.

There are a variety of cat flaps available on the market, and all offer various features. Some cat flaps have security features such as magnetic locks or microchips that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also keep your pet from letting friends or animals to enter the house. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals that keep out draughts and moisture.

There are various sizes that are available based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are available in rectangular shapes, whereas others are circular or square. The type of cat flap you choose will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the type of window or door you're fixing it to.

Also, think about the mechanism for opening your cat flap will have. A simple aluminium or plastic swing-out door is a good choice and is typically the least expensive. However, it will not prevent other cats or pets from gaining access and you could let draughts in as well.

It's time to put in your cat flap. Begin by marking the belly's height on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit-level to make sure the line is not too low and is in line with the door. Create a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, using your Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. Once you are happy with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil lines to create holes for screws.

Prepare the Tools

As with any DIY jobs, it's always best to have the proper tools for the job. The most essential things you'll need are the cat flap as well as a tape measure, a good pencil as well as a spirit level, drill, file and a jigsaw (depending on the door or window type).

Check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a door made of composite. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to become broken. In this instance you'll need to fit an entirely new pane of toughened glass instead.

You'll need to use a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions given by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to mark the size hole you'll require.

After you've made the hole, you must sand down the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop any rust or water damage from happening in the future. Finally, you should apply any necessary sealant to the rear of the cat flap and to the holes in the door or window to block rain and wind. After the sealant has dried it is time to install your cat flap!

Install the Flap

The installation of a flap will allow your cat to go and come whenever it wishes. It's a simple procedure that most people can accomplish by themselves, though you'll likely require the assistance of an expert for installing the flap on a glass door or other type of uPVC door.

Take a look at the instructions that came with your cat flap. You will find a drawing of the template. This will provide you with an idea of where holes for the flap have to be drilled into the door. Mark the areas you'll need to drill into with a pencil.

After you have marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw and cut out the the cat flap. It's a relatively easy task, but you'll need to be comfortable using the Jigsaw. cat flap installation will do this task for you for a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to take on the task yourself.

Then, you can screw the inside part to the hole in your door. It might be necessary to seal the flap before you do this to keep it weatherproof and watertight. You can then place the outer portion of the flap on top of the fixing bolts, and tighten the bolts all together. It is recommended to test the cat flap with your cat to ensure that it works correctly and that they can move easily through it.