Fitting A Cat Flap

Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is a fantastic step for any pet owner. There are a variety of options to you, regardless of whether your cat is old and requires additional security or if you have kittens who need to be checked.

It can be difficult for those who aren't professionals to put in the cat flap, but with the proper instructions, it's simple. Planning, preparation and precision are the key to success.

Select the Right Door or Windows

There are a wide variety of cat flaps available including some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet going out or coming in) and others with advanced features such as microchip door entry systems. It's important to think about how easy it will be to train your cat to use the flap before you buy and install one.

Depending on the style of your home, it's generally best to put the cat flap in the form of a door or window that opens onto an area that is protected from the garden so your cat will feel secure entering and leaving the home. This will also allow them to return inside if they're chased by another animal or humans who want to hurt them.

You can put the cat flap on a uPVC door or a glass window, but it's not as straightforward as fitting one into wooden doors. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in various thicknesses. This can impact the how holes are cut and the type of door you can fix to.

If you're installing the flap in glass doors it is recommended to find a glazier who is experienced in such work to avoid costly errors. If you're fitting the flap on a wooden door, start by introducing your cat to it prior to fitting it so that they can be familiar with its size and shape and explore it from every angle.

Measure Your cat flap bifold doors's Belly

In order to install an appropriate cat flap that is suitable for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's size. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is at the right height on your door or window, and that it's large enough for them to enter and out easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Feel for any fat pads that are squishy - these could be visible on their lower back, face, and limbs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline Acrobatics.

You can also take into account the weight of your pet to determine the size of opening you require. If your cat weighs up to 5kg, for instance, the suggested cat flap opening size is 14x12cm.

Measure your door or window

Like the name suggests this kind of cat flap is made to be attached to an opening and provide the pet with a way to go in or out at any time it wishes. They are typically made of aluminum or plastic and rest in the middle of the door. They come with an open door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. These flaps are available with locking options 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, however they have to be installed 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 constructed stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it.

cat flap glass door installation near me flaps can also be fitted into a brick wall but it is not recommended unless you're skilled in masonry work as it could weaken the structure of the wall. It is important to make sure there are no cables and pipes within the wall before you begin. It is recommended to consult an expert if you have to cut a hole in the wall for pipes and cables. It's also advisable to wear protective goggles and a dust-proof mask to avoid breathing in any sawdust generated by cutting into your home's walls.

Select the Right Cat Flap

There are many different cat flaps available and each one comes with various features. Some cat flaps have security features like microchip recognition or magnetic locks that prevent unauthorized entry. They also stop your pet from letting guests or animals to enter the home. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to keep out the elements and keep out drafts.

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

Lastly consider the mechanism to open your cat flap is likely to have. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. However, it will not prevent other cats or pets from entering your home and you could be letting draughts in too.

Once you have selected the appropriate cat flap and measured your window or door, it's time to fit it. Start by marking the belly's height on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure the line is not too low and that it is straight across the door. Utilize your spirit level to draw a template for the flap for cats. Then, using your Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. When you are satisfied with the result finish sanding the edges and drill through the pencil markings to make holes for screws.

Prepare the Tools

Like any DIY jobs, it's always advisable to make sure you 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 and a spirit level a file, drill and a Jigsaw (depending on the window or door type).

If you're installing in a composite door, consult with the manufacturer before making any alterations because this could affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this scenario it's likely you'll have to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.

For wooden or uPVC doors will require cutting out the design of your cat flap using a Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines provided by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to mark out the size hole you'll require.

After you've made the hole, you should then sand down the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will prevent future rust and water damage. Also, you should apply any necessary sealant to the back of the cat flap, and to the holes in the window or door to block rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry then you're now ready to put in your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to be able to come and go as it pleases, fitting flaps can aid. The majority of people can install the flap on their own. However when you plan to install it on a glass or upvc cat flap door panels type door, you might need a professional.

Look at the instructions that came with the cat flap. You will find a template drawing. This will give you an idea of where holes for the flap have to be drilled in the door. Mark the areas you will need to drill into with pencil.

After you have marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw to cut the design for the cat flap. It's a relatively easy job, but you'll need to be comfortable with a jigsaw. Many companies will do this task for you at a reasonable cost in case you're hesitant to take on the task yourself.

The next step is to screw the inner part of the flap onto the door's hole. You may need to seal it prior to doing this to ensure that it remains weather-proof and water resistant. The outside of your cat flap could be placed on the bolts on top, and then tightened together. It is recommended that you test the cat flap with your cat to ensure that it functions properly and that they can enter and leave easily through it.