Fitting A Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap into your home could be a huge step for any pet owner. Whether your cat flap double glazing is old and requires extra security, or you have new kittens that require a thorough screening there are plenty of options out there for you.

Installing a cat flap could be a daunting task for novices, however, with the proper instructions, it's easy to complete. Planning, preparation and precision are the most important factors.

Select the Right Door or Windows

There are a variety of cat flaps that are available, some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from leaving or coming in) and others with high-tech features like microchip door entry systems. It is important to consider how easy your cat is to teach to use the flap before you purchase and fit one.

Depending on the style of your home It is recommended to place the cat flap near a window or door that opens to an area of protection in the garden, so that your cat will feel secure entering and leaving the home. If you can it will also provide them a route back in case they are chased by another cat or by humans who are intent to hurt them.

It is possible to install a cat flap in the form of a uPVC door or a glass window, but it's not as straightforward as fitting one into a wooden door. This is because uPVC and composite doors come in various thicknesses, which affect how holes are cut and the materials you're fixing them to.

If you're installing the flap inside glass doors it is recommended to find a glazier who is experienced in such work to avoid any costly mistakes. If you're installing the flap into a wooden door it is recommended that you introduce your cat to it first to ensure that it becomes familiar with its dimensions and shape.

Measure Your Cat's Belly

It is important to know the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you choose to install is the perfect fit. This will allow you to make sure that the flap is placed at the correct height on the window or door, and that it is large enough for him to get in and out easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Feel for any fat pads that are squishy which could be visible on their lower back, face or the limbs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline acrobatics.

Alternately, you could use your pet's weight to determine the size of an opening you require. If your cat weighs at or over 5kg for instance, a 14 x 12cm cat flap opening is recommended.

Make sure you measure your windows or doors

Like the name suggests, this type of cat flap is designed to be fixed into an opening and provide a way for your pet to enter or leave as it pleases. They are usually made from aluminum or plastic and rest in the middle of the door with the possibility of a swinging door that opens by pushing lightly on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps that provide extra security, so your cat can't simply traverse through the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also frequently employed in windows. They are able to be easily installed, but they need to be placed at a high level as cats and dogs find it difficult to get them. If the window is too high to be used as a cat flap, ramps, steps, or specially built stairs can be utilized to help the animal access it.

Cat flaps can be incorporated to a brick wall, but it is not recommended unless you're familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the structure of the wall. It is essential to ensure that there aren't any cables and pipes in the wall prior to you start. It is recommended to consult a professional if you need to cut a hole in the wall for pipes or cables. It's also advisable to wear safety goggles and a dust protection mask to avoid inhaling any sawdust generated by cutting holes in the walls of your house.

Choose the right cat flap

There are numerous cat flaps on the market and all of them offer various features. Some cat flaps have security features such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition which prevent unauthorised entry. They also stop your pet from letting friends or another animal into the house. Some have weatherproof seals and insulation to keep out the elements and keep out drafts.

There's also a variety of sizes, based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular, while others are square or circular. Selecting the best cat flap will be dictated by the space you have available as well as the type of window or door you are fitting cat flap in upvc door panel it to.

The last thing to do is consider the type of opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. A simple aluminum or plastic swing-out door is an choice and is typically the cheapest. It won't stop other cats and pets from entering, and you could also be letting in drafts.

It's time to install your cat flap. Begin by marking the height of the belly on the door using your ruler. Make use of a spirit-level to ensure that the line is not too low and is straight on the door. Use your spirit level to draw a sketch of the flap for cats. Then, use a saw to cut out the door's outline. Once you are satisfied with the result finish sanding the edges and drill through the pencil marks to create holes for screws.

Prepare the Tools

As with all DIY jobs, it's always best to have the appropriate tools to complete the task. The most essential things you'll need are the cat flap, a tape measure and a good pencil as well as a spirit level, drill, file, and an jigsaw (depending on your windows or doors).

If you're installing in a composite door, it is recommended to check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes, because this could cause the warranty to be invalidated or break the weathertight seal. In this case, it's likely that you will need to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.

For wooden or uPVC doors, you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap using a jigsaw and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. If possible, use an example to mark out the dimensions of the hole you need to cut.

After you've cut the hole, you'll have to sand the edges of the opening. This will prevent any rust or water damage from happening in the near future. It is also recommended to seal the holes in your window or door and the side of the flap to block wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry and dry, you can install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

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

Check out the directions that came with your cat flap. You will find a template drawing. This will give you an idea of the location where holes need to be made for the flap on the door. Note the areas you'll need to drill in with a pencil.

After you've marked the door's area and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the shape of the cat flap double glazing flap. It's a relatively easy task, but you'll need to be comfortable with the jigsaw. If you are concerned about doing it yourself, there are plenty of companies that can do this for you at a very low cost.

Next, you will need to attach the inside of the cat flap to the door's hole. You may need to seal it prior to making this move to ensure it is weather and water resistant. The outer section of your cat flap can be placed on the bolts' tops and then securing them. It is recommended that you test the flap with your cat to ensure that it is working properly and that they can get in and out of it.