Getting a cat flap fitted inside your home can be a big step for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and needs extra security or you have kittens that need to be vetted there are plenty of options out there to choose from.
Installing a cat flap could be a daunting task for novices, but with the right instructions, it's easy to do. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and precision.
Choose the Right Door or Windows
There's a wide selection of cat flaps to choose from, some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet going out or entering) and others with advanced features such as microchip door entry systems. However, it's important to consider the ease of your cat to train to use the flap prior to making a purchase and install one.
Depending on the design of your house, it's generally best to put the cat flap near a window or door that opens onto an area of protection in the garden so that your cat can feel safe when going into and out of the house. This will also enable them to return inside if they are chased by another animal or human beings who wish to hurt them.
It is possible to install a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it's not the same as fitting one into a wood door. This is because uPVC and composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses, which affect how holes are cut and the materials you're fixing them into.
If you're installing the flap in the glass of a door it is recommended that you seek out a glazier that is skilled in such work to avoid costly mistakes. If you're fitting the flap onto the door made of wood, you should introduce your cat to it first so that it can become familiar with its dimensions and shape.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
It is important to know the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap you choose to install is the perfect fit. This will allow you to ensure that the cat flap is at the correct height on the door or window and that it is large enough for him to enter and out easily.
To do this, place your pet on their back and gently rub your fingers along their belly. Check for any squishy fat pads that may be visible around their lower back, face or the limbs. 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 the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you need. If your cat weighs at or above 5kg in weight for instance that's a 14x12cm cat flap opening is advised.
Take a measurement of your door or window
This kind of cat flap, as its name suggests is made to be fitted into a door. It lets your pet enter and exit at its convenience. These flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and sit in the middle of the door. They have a two-way swinging opening that is opened by gently pressing on either side. The flaps are available with locking options that provide additional security so that your cat is not able to traverse the door from outside.
A window is another popular location for a cat's flap, and they're easy enough to put in, but they usually need to be located high enough as it's difficult for cats and dogs to access them. If the window isn't high enough to use a cat's flap, then you can opt for steps, ramps or stairs that are specially designed to assist the animal in reaching it.
It is possible to install a cat flap into a brickwall, but it is not recommended for people who aren't familiar with masonry. This could weaken the structure of the wall. It is essential to ensure that there are no cables and pipes inside the wall before you start. It is recommended to consult a professional if you need to cut a hole in the wall for pipes and cables. It's also advisable to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust-proof mask to avoid inhaling any sawdust generated by cutting through your home's walls.
Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.
There are a variety of cat flaps on the market, and they have different features. Some are equipped with security features like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by unauthorized persons and stop your pet allowing friends or other animals into the house. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals that keep out water and drafts.
There's also a variety of sizes, based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular while others are square or circular. The kind of cat flap you choose 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 consider the type of opening mechanism your cat flap will use. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is a good choice and is typically the cheapest. It won't prevent other animals and cats from entering however, and you could let in draughts.
It's time to put in your cat flap. Begin by marking the belly height on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is sitting exactly on the door and not too low. Draw 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 happy with the results sand down the edges and then drill through the pencil lines to make holes for the screws.
Prepare the Tools
It is essential to have the right tools for performing any DIY project. You'll require the cat flap, an eraser and tape measure along with a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the type of window or door.
If you're installing in a composite door, it is recommended to consult with the manufacturer before making any changes, because this could affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this instance you'll likely require a new pane of toughened glass instead.
For wooden or uPVC doors, you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap with the Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines given by the manufacturer. If possible, you can use an outline to help determine the dimensions of the hole you'll need to cut.
After you've cut the required hole, you'll need to sand down the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will prevent any water damage or rust from happening in the future. Finally, you should apply any sealant you require to the rear of the cat flap and to the holes in the door or window to block the elements of wind and rain. After the sealant has dried and dry, you can install your new cat flap!
Install cat flap installation
Fitting a flap will allow your cat to move around whenever it wishes. Most people can put in the flap on their own. However, if you want to put it in a glass or uPVC type door, you may require an expert.
Check out the directions included with the cat flap. You will find a template drawing. This will provide you with an idea of where holes for the flap need to be made in the door. Mark the areas you'll need to drill into with pencil.
After you have mapped out the door's area, use a jigsaw to cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a relatively easy task, but you'll require a good understanding of a jigsaw. Numerous companies will perform this for you for a reasonable price If you're not sure how to do it yourself.
Then, screw the inner part to the hole in your door. It is possible to apply sealant before doing this to ensure it is weather and water resistant. You can then place the outer part of the cat flap on top of the fixing bolts and then tighten the bolts all together. It is recommended to test the flap with your cat to ensure that it works correctly and that they can get in and out of it.