Fitting A Cat Flap

Getting a cat flap installation flap fitted into your home could be a big step for any pet owner. If your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have a new kitten that need to be vetted there are plenty of options there to choose from.

It can be a bit daunting for people who aren't experts in installing an animal flap, but with right instructions it's easy. Planning, preparation and precision are the keys.

Choose the Right Door or Windows

There's a wide selection of cat flaps (visit the following page) to choose from including some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet going out or coming in) and others with advanced features such as microchips for door entry systems. It is important to think about how it is easy to train your cat flap installation to use the flap, before you purchase and install one.

Depending on the style of your house, it's usually best to put the cat flap near an opening or window that opens to an area that is protected from the garden so your cat is secure when entering and leaving the home. This will also allow them to get back inside if they are chased by other animals or human beings who wish to harm them.

It's possible to install a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as simple as installing one into a wood door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors are available in various thicknesses, and this can impact how holes are cut and the material you're fixing it into.

If you're installing the flap on a glass door it is recommended that you seek out a glazier that is skilled in such work to avoid any costly mistakes. If you're installing the flap to an old wooden door, begin by the cat flap in bifold doors with it prior to fitting it to allow them to be familiar with its shape and size and explore it from all angles.

Take a look at your cat's belly measurement

To install an appropriate cat flap that is the right size for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat. This will ensure that the flap is at the right height on your door or window and that it's big enough to allow them to get in and exit with ease.

To do this, place your pet on their back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Look for a fat pad that is squishy around the lower back or face, or around the limbs. The extra padding offers your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics that felines are known for.

You can also take into account the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you need. If your cat weighs 5Kg, for example, the suggested cat flap size is 14x12cm.

Measure Your Door or Window

As the name suggests the cat flap is designed to be fixed into the door, and offers a way for your pet to leave or enter as it pleases. They are usually made of aluminum or plastic and rest in the middle of the door. They come with the possibility of a swinging door that opens by pushing lightly on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps, which provide extra security, so your cat isn't able to walk through from the outside.

Cat flaps are also frequently used on windows. They are able to be easily installed, but they need to be set at a height where cats and dogs have a difficult time to reach them. If the window is too high to use a cat flap then steps, ramps or purpose built stairs can be utilized to aid the animal in accessing it.

Cat flaps can also be fitted into a brick wall but it 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. Always consult an expert when you need to cut a hole in the wall for cables and pipes. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask can help you avoid inhaling the dust that is generated when cutting into your walls.

Select the Right Cat Flap

There are a variety of cat flaps available and all of them offer different features. Some cat flaps have security features like microchip recognition or magnetic locks that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also prevent your pet from letting guests or animals to enter the home. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to block out draughts and moisture.

There are different sizes to choose from based on the breed and size of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are circular or square. The kind of double glazing cat flap flap you select will depend on the size of the opening and the kind of door or window you're fitting it to.

Lastly consider the mechanism for opening your cat flap will have. A simple aluminum or plastic swing-out door is an choice and is typically the cheapest. It will not stop other pets and cats from entering, and you could also be letting in drafts.

Once you've selected the correct cat flap and measured the windows or doors, it's time to fit it. Mark the belly height of the door using a ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is straight against the door and not too low. Create a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, you can use your jigsaw to cut out the outline of the door. When you're satisfied with the results sand down the edges and then drill through the pencil lines to make holes for the screws.

Prepare the Tools

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

If you're installing in a composite door, it is recommended to consult with the manufacturer before making any alterations since this could invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this instance, you'll probably have to install a new pane of toughened glass instead.

For wooden or uPVC doors you'll need to cut out the shape of your cat flap using a jigsaw and follow the instructions given by the manufacturer. Make use of a template to mark out the size hole you need.

After you have cut the hole, you will have to sand off the edges of the opening. This will stop the possibility of water damage and rust. It is also recommended to cover the holes in your window or door and the back of the flap to block wind and rain. When the sealant has dried then you're now ready to put in your new cat flap installation bristol flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to be able to come and go whenever it wants, installing flaps can be helpful. This is a simple process that most people can complete on their own, but you'll likely require the help of a professional if you are installing the flap on an unglazed door or any other kind of uPVC door.

Look at the instructions included with your cat flap. You will find a drawing of the template. This will give an idea of the location where the holes will be made for the flap in the door. Then, mark the areas that you'll have to drill using pencil.

After you have marked the door on your door, use the jigsaw and cut out the shape for the cat flap. It's a relatively easy task however, you'll need to be comfortable using a jigsaw. If you are concerned about doing this yourself, there are many companies that can do this for you at a low cost.

Then, you can screw the inside part to the hole of your door. You may have to apply sealant before making this move to ensure it remains weather-proof and water resistant. You can then put the outer part of the cat flap on the top of the fixing bolts and then tighten the bolts all together. It is recommended that you test the flap using your cat to ensure that it functions properly and that they are able to move easily through it.