Fitting A Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap into your home could be a big step for any pet owner. There are numerous options to you, regardless of whether your cat is getting older and requires additional security or you have kittens that need to be checked.

It can be a bit daunting for non-professionals to install a cat flap, but with right instructions it's easy. Preparation, planning and precision are the keys.

Select the Right Door or Windows

There's a wide selection of cat flaps that are available that come with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from going out or coming in) and others with advanced features such as microchip door entry systems. It is important to think about how it is easy to teach your cat how to use the flap, before you buy and install one.

It's best to place the Cat Flap Bifold Doors flap, based on the style of your home, inside a window that opens into a garden that is sheltered. This will help your cat feel secure when entering and leaving your home. This will also enable them to return inside in the event of being pursued by a pet or human beings who wish to harm them.

It's possible to put a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door cat flap door, but it's not as easy as putting one into a wood door. This is because uPVC and composite doors come in various thicknesses, which affect the way holes are cut as well as the material you're fixing it into.

If you're installing the flap inside a glass door it is recommended to find a glazier who is experienced in this type of work to avoid costly errors. If you're installing the flap on an old wooden door, begin by introduction of your cat to it prior to fitting it so that they can get used to its size and shape and explore it from all angles.

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. This will ensure that the flap is at the correct height on your door or window and that it's large enough to allow them to enter and exit easily.

To do this, place your pet on their back and gently rub your fingers along their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back, face or legs. The extra padding offers your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the acrobatics cats are famous for.

Alternately, you could make use of your pet's weight to gauge how big an opening you require. If your cat weighs 5Kg, for example, the suggested cat flap in upvc door panel flap size is 14x12cm.

Measure your door or window

This type of cat flap, as its name suggests is designed to be affixed to the door. It allows your pet to be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. These flaps are constructed of plastic or aluminum and sit in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that is opened by gently pressing on either side. These flaps can be locked which provide extra security so that your cat is not able to enter the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also commonly employed in windows. They are able to be easily installed, but they have to be set at an elevated level since cats and dogs have a difficult time to get them. If the window is too high for a cat flap, ramps, steps, or specially built stairs can be used to help the animal access it.

It is possible to install the cat flap onto a brickwall, but it is not recommended for those who aren't experienced in the masonry industry. This could weaken the structure of the wall. It's important to check that there aren't any cables or pipes inside the wall before you start. If there are, a hole needs to be made for them. This is something that you should always seek professional advice on. It is also recommended 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 on the market and each one comes with different features. Some cat flaps have security features, such as microchip recognition or magnetic locks which prevent unauthorised entry. They also prevent your pet from letting guests or other animals into the home. 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, while others are square or circular. The kind of cat flap you pick will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the kind of door or window you're installing it to.

The last thing to do is think about the opening mechanism your cat flap will use. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is a good alternative and is usually the cheapest. However, it won't prevent other cats or pets from entering your home and you could let draughts in too.

After you've chosen the right cat flap and measured your windows or doors, it's time to fit it. Make a mark on the belly of the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is not too low and is straight on the door. Create a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, using a Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. When you're satisfied with the results sand down the edges and drill through the pencil lines to create holes for the screws.

Make the Tools

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

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 damaged. In this case it's likely you'll have to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass.

You'll need to use an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines given by the manufacturer. Make use of a template to mark the size hole you require.

After you have cut the hole, you'll need to sand the edges of the opening. This will stop future rust and water damage. In the end, you must apply any sealant that is needed to the rear of the cat flap and to the holes in the door or window to keep out rain and wind. When the sealant has dried, you're ready to install your new cat flap installation cost flap!

Install the Flap

The installation of a flap will allow your cat to go and come whenever it pleases. This is a simple process that most people can do themselves, although you'll likely require the help of an expert if you're installing the flap in a glass door or other kind of uPVC door.

Start by looking at the instructions provided with your cat flap to locate the template drawing. This will provide you with an idea of where the holes for the flap need to be drilled into the door. Mark the areas that you'll need to drill with the pencil.

After you've marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw and cut out the the cat flap. It is a relatively simple task, but you'll have to be comfortable using the jigsaw. Many companies will do this for you at a reasonable price If you're not sure how to tackle it yourself.

Next, you will need to attach the inside of the cat flap to the door's hole. It is possible to apply sealant before doing this to ensure that it is weather and water resistant. Then, you can put the outer part of the flap on top of the fixing bolts and tighten the bolts all together. It is recommended to test the flap using your cat to make sure that it functions properly and that they can get in and out of it.