Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in your home is a great option for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and needs extra security or you have kittens that need to be vetted there are plenty of options out there to choose from.

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

Choose the Right Door or Windows

There are a variety of cat flaps that are available, some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from leaving or entering) and others that have high-tech features like microchip door entry systems. But, it's important to think about the ease of your cat to train to use the flap prior to making a buy and install one.

Depending on the style of your house, it's generally best to put the cat flap inside a window or door that opens to a sheltered area of the garden, so that your cat is secure when leaving and entering the home. This will also allow them to get back inside in the event of being pursued by a pet or human beings who wish to harm them.

It's possible to install the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't the same as fitting one into a wood door. 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.

To avoid costly errors It is recommended to consult an expert glazier prior to installing the flap on a door with a glass front. If you are fitting the flap to the door made of wood you must introduce your cat to it first to ensure that it becomes familiar with its dimensions and shape.

Measure Your Cat's Belly

To install an appropriate cat flap that is the right size for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's size. This will help you ensure that the flap is the correct height on your door or window, and that it's wide enough to allow them to get in and out easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers over their belly. Check for  cat flap fitting near me repairmywindowsanddoors  which might be visible around their lower back, face or the limbs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline circus skills.

You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine the size of opening you require. If your cat is at or above 5kg in weight for instance, a 14 x 12cm cat flap opening is recommended.

Take a measurement of your door or window

This type of cat flap, as its name suggests, is made to be fitted into the door. It lets your pet enter and exit at its convenience. They are usually made of plastic or aluminium and simply sit in the centre of the door with a two-way swinging door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps that provide additional security to ensure that your cat can't simply enter the door from the outside.

A window is a common location for a cat's flap, and they are simple enough to install, though they usually need to be located high enough as it's difficult for dogs and cats to access them. If the window is not sufficient to accommodate a cat's flap, you can use steps, ramps or specially designed stairs to assist the animal in reaching it.

A cat flap could be installed into a brick wall, however this is not recommended unless you are experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it's essential to make sure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. You should always consult a professional if you need to cut a hole in the wall for cables and pipes. It is also recommended to wear protective goggles and a dust-proof mask to avoid inhaling any sawdust generated by cutting into the walls of your house.

Choose the right cat flap

There are numerous cat flaps that are available on the market, and all offer different features. Some have security options like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry and also stop your pet allowing pets or friends into the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals that keep out draughts and moisture.

There is also a choice of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, whereas others are square or circular. Choosing the right type of cat flap will be dictated by the space you have available and the type of window or door you want to attach it to.

Lastly think about the mechanism to open your cat flap will have. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. However, it won't keep other animals or cats from entering your home and you could let draughts through as well.

Once you have selected the correct cat flap and measured your window or door, it's time to fit it. Begin by marking the belly's height on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is sitting straight against the door and not too low. Create a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Next, use your jigsaw to cut out the door's outline. Once you are happy with the result finish sanding the edges and drill through the pencil lines to create holes for screws.

Make sure you have the tools ready

It's essential to have the right tools for undertaking any DIY project. You'll require the cat flap, a pencil and tape measure, a spirit-level, a drill and a jigsaw depending on the type of window or door.

Contact the manufacturer prior to making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal broken. In this case you'll need to fit an entirely new 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 directions that are provided by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to mark the size hole you need.

After you have cut the hole, you will have to sand off the edges of the opening. This will stop any water damage or rust from happening in the future. Finally, you should apply any necessary sealant to the back of the cat flap and to the holes in the door or window to block the elements of wind and rain. After the sealant has dried it is time to install your new cat-flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to come and go as it pleases, fitting flaps can be helpful. Most people can install the flap themselves. However when you plan to install it on a glass or uPVC type door, you might need an expert.

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

After you've marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw to cut the shape for the cat flap. This is a relatively simple task however you'll need be comfortable using a saw. Many companies will do this work for you at a reasonable cost if you are hesitant to do it yourself.

Then, screw the inner part to the hole in your door. It is possible to apply sealant prior to doing this to ensure it is weather and water resistant. The outer part of your cat flap may be placed on the bolts' tops and then tightened together. You must test the cat flap on your cat to ensure that it functions properly and allows them to exit and enter easily.