Fitting A Cat Flap

Getting a cat flap fitted inside your home can be a big step for any pet owner. There are many options available to you, regardless of whether your cat is getting older and requires extra security or you have kittens who need to be vetted.

Installing a cat flap may be intimidating for people who aren't professionals, but with the right instructions, it's easy to accomplish. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and precision.

Select the Right Door, or Windows

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

It's best to place the cat flap, depending on the style of your house, in an opening that leads into a sheltered garden area. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering and leaving your home. If possible it will also provide them a route back in should they be chased by a cat or by humans intent on harming them.

It's possible to install a cat-flap in a upvc door panel replacement cat flap or composite door, but it isn't as easy as putting one in a wood door. This is because uPVC and composite doors are available in various thicknesses, which affect how holes are cut and the materials you're fixing them to.

To avoid costly errors It is recommended that you consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a door with a glass front. If you're fitting the flap to a wooden door it is recommended that you introduce your cat first so that it can become familiar with its size and shape.

Find out the size of your cat's belly

In order to install a cat flap that's the right size for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat's height. This will help you make sure that the flap is installed at the right height for the door or window, and also that it's large enough to allow him to enter and exit easily.

To do this, put your pet on their back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Feel for any fat pads that are squishy which might be visible around their lower back, face, and the limbs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially 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 is at or over 5kg, for example that's a 14x12cm flap for the cat is recommended.

Make sure you measure your door or window

The name implies, this type of cat flap is made to be attached to the door, and offers the pet with a way to leave or enter as it pleases. They are usually made from aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door. They have an open door that is opened by pushing lightly on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps that provide additional security to ensure that your cat won't be able to simply enter the door from the outside.

A window is a common place to put a double glazing cat flap flap, and they're easy enough to install, though they usually need to be set up high as it is difficult for dogs and cats to access them. If the window is not sufficient to accommodate the flap for cats, you can make use of ramps, steps, or stairs that are specially designed to assist the animal in reaching it.

Cat flaps can also be fitted to a brick wall, but this is not recommended unless familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's important to make sure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. It is recommended to consult a professional if you need to create a hole for pipes and cables. It's also advisable to wear protective goggles and a dust protection mask to prevent inhaling any sawdust that is created by cutting into the walls of your home.

Choose the right cat flap

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

There is also a choice of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are available in rectangular shapes, whereas others are square or circular. Selecting the best cat flap will be dictated by the space available and the type of door or window you are fitting it to.

Also consider the mechanism for opening your cat flap will have. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is an alternative and is usually the cheapest. It won't prevent other pets and cats from entering however, and you could be letting in drafts.

It's time to put in your cat flap. Begin by marking the belly's height on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit-level to make sure the line isn't 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 reference. Then, using the saw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you're happy with the result, sand the edges and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for screws.

Make the Tools

Like any DIY jobs, it's always best to have the proper tools for the job. The most important things you'll require are the cat flap along with a tape measure, a decent pencil as well as a spirit level, a file, drill and a Jigsaw (depending on the windows or doors).

If you're installing in a composite door, it is recommended to consult with the manufacturer before making any changes as this may cause the warranty to be invalidated or break the weathertight seal. In this scenario, it's likely that you'll have to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass.

You'll need the jigsaw to cut your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to determine the size of hole you'll need.

After you've cut the required hole, you'll need to sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop any future water damage or rust. Finally, you should apply any necessary sealant to the back of the cat flap, and to the holes in the door or window to keep out rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry, you're ready to install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

Installing a flap allows your cat to move around whenever it wants. The majority of people can install the flap on their own. However should you wish to install it in a glass or uPVC type door, you may require a professional.

Look at the instructions that came with your cat flap. You will find a drawing of the template. This will give you an idea of where holes for the flap will need to be drilled into the door. Then, mark the areas that you'll must drill using the pencil.

After you've marked the area on your door, you can use the jigsaw to cut the the cat flap. It's a relatively easy task however you'll need be comfortable with the Jigsaw. If you are worried about doing this yourself, there are a lot of companies that can do this for you at a very low cost.

Then, screw the inner part to the hole in your door. It may be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this in order to ensure it is weatherproof and watertight. Then, you can put the outer part of the cat flap on the top of the fixing bolts and then tighten them all. You should test the cat flap on your double glazing cat flap to confirm that it functions properly and allows them to enter and exit easily.