Fitting A Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in your home is a fantastic step for any pet owner. There are many options available for you, whether your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have kittens that require to be vetted.

It can be intimidating for people who aren't experts in installing a cat flap, but with proper instructions, it's simple. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and accuracy.

Choose the Right Door or Windows

There's a wide selection of cat flaps available, some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from leaving or entering) and others with advanced features such as microchips for door entry systems. It is important to consider how easy your cat is to train to use the flap prior to making a buy and install one.

It is recommended to put the cat flap, based on the style of your house, in an opening that leads into a garden that is sheltered. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering and leaving your home. This will also enable them to go back inside in the event of being pursued by a pet or human who wants to hurt them.

It is possible to install a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't the same as fitting cat flap in upvc door panel one into a wood door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors are available in a variety of thicknesses, and this can impact the way holes are cut and what you're fixing to.

To avoid costly errors, it is recommended that you consult a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a door with a glass front. If you're fitting the flap into the door made of wood you must introduce your cat to it first so that it can become familiar with its size and shape.

Measure Your Cat Flap Step's Belly

You'll need the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap installation cost flap you put in is the perfect fit. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is the right height for your door or window and that it's large enough for them to enter and out easily.

To do this, lay your pet on their back and run your fingers gently along their belly. Look for a fat pad that is squishy around the lower back or face, or around the legs. The extra padding offers your pet safety and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the acrobatics cats are famous for.

You can also use your pet's weight to determine the size of the opening you require. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg, for example the suggested cat flap size is 14 x 12cm.

Make sure you measure your door or window

This kind of cat flap, as its name suggests is designed to be installed into the door. It allows your pet to enter and exit at its convenience. They are usually made from aluminum or plastic and rest in the middle of the door with a two-way swinging door that is opened by pushing lightly on either side. They are available in locking versions that provide additional security so your cat cannot simply walk through the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also commonly used on windows. They can be easily installed, but they need to be set at a height where cats and dogs find it difficult to get them. If the window is too high to use a cat flap then steps, ramps or purpose built stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it.

Cat flaps can also be fitted into a brick wall but this is not recommended unless you are familiar with masonry work since 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. If there are, then an opening must be made for them. This is something you should always seek expert advice on. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask can allow you to avoid breathing in the sawdust created when cutting through your walls.

Choose the right cat flap

There are a variety of cat flaps available and each one comes with different features. Some come with security options such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by unauthorized persons and prevent your pet from allowing pets or friends into the house. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to block draughts and moisture.

There are different sizes available depending on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular while others are circular or square. The kind of cat flap you choose will depend on the size of the opening and the kind of door or window you're installing it to.

Last but not least, take into consideration the kind of opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. A simple aluminium or plastic swing-out door is one option and is usually the least expensive. However, it won't stop other pets or cats from gaining access and you could let draughts through too.

Once you have selected the right cat flap and Cat flap step measured your window or door then it's time to install it. Determine the belly height of the door using a ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line isn't too low and that it is straight across the door. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, use a saw to cut out the door's outline. Once you are satisfied with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.

Prepare the Tools

It's important to have the right tools available when undertaking any DIY project. The main things you'll need are the cat flap along with a tape measure, an excellent pencil as well as a spirit level, drill, file and the Jigsaw (depending on your window with cat flap or door type).

If you're installing in a composite door, it is recommended to consult with the manufacturer prior to making any changes as this may affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this instance, you'll probably have to install an entirely new pane of toughened glass instead.

You'll require the jigsaw to cut your cat flap installation in glass doors near me flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions that are provided by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to mark the size hole you need.

After you've made the hole, you'll need to smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop any rust or water damage from happening in the future. You should also seal the holes in your door or window and the back of the flap to keep out rain and wind. Once the sealant has dried it is time to install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

Installing a flap allows your cat to come and go whenever it wishes. Most people can install the flap by themselves. However, Cat flap step if you want to put it in glass or uPVC type door, you may require an expert.

Begin by reading the instructions provided with your cat flap to find the template drawing. This will give an idea of the location where the holes will be drilled for the flap on the door. Mark the areas you'll have to drill using a pencil.

Once you have marked out the door's opening then use a jigsaw cut out the shape of the cat flap. It is a relatively simple task, but you'll have to be comfortable using a saw. If you are concerned about doing this yourself, there are many companies that can do this for you at a very low cost.

Then, attach the outer part to the hole of your door. You may have to apply sealant before doing this to ensure it stays watertight and weather resistant. The outer part of your cat flap may be placed on the bolts on top, and then securing them. It is recommended to test the flap with your cat to make sure that it works correctly and that they are able to enter and leave easily through it.