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Fitting a Cat Flap
Installing a cat flap your home is a great step for any pet owner. There are numerous options for you, no matter if your cat is older and requires extra security or you have kittens that require to be vetted.

It can be a bit daunting for people who aren't experts in installing the cat flap, but with the proper instructions, it's simple. The key is preparation, planning and precision.

Select upvc door panel replacement cat flap or Windows

There's a wide selection of cat flaps to choose from including 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. But, it's important to think about how easy your cat is to teach to use the flap prior to making a purchase and fit one.

Based on the style of your home It is recommended to place the cat flap in an opening or window that opens out into a sheltered area of the garden, so that your cat is secure when going into and out of the house. If possible this will also allow them a route back in should they be chased by a cat or by humans intent on harming them.

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

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

Find out the size of your cat's belly

You'll need the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you put in is a good fit. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is the right height on your window or door and that it's wide enough to allow them to get in and exit with ease.

Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers over their belly. Look for any fat pads that are squishy which may be visible around their lower back, face or legs. The padding gives your pet with protection 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 gauge how big an opening you need. If your cat is at or over 5kg, for example that's a 14x12cm flap for the cat is advised.

Take a measurement of your door or window

As the name suggests, this type of cat flap is designed to be affixed to the door, and offers a way for your pet to leave or enter as it pleases. They are typically made of plastic or aluminium and simply are placed in the middle of the door with the possibility of a swinging door that opens by pressing lightly on either side. These flaps are available in locking versions that offer added security, so that your cat is not able to traverse the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also often used on windows. They are able to be easily installed, however they have to be placed at an elevated level since cats and dogs find it difficult to get them. If the window is too high for a cat flap, ramps, steps, or specially constructed stairs can be used to aid the animal in accessing it.

It is possible to put the cat flap onto brick walls, however it is not recommended for people who aren't experienced in the masonry industry. This could weaken the structure of the wall. 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 pipes and cables. It's also advisable to wear protective goggles and a dust-proof mask to avoid inhaling any sawdust that is created by cutting through the walls of your home.

Choose the right cat flap

There are numerous cat flaps available and all of them offer various features. Some have security options like magnetic locks or microchip recognition to prevent unauthorized entry and also restrict your pet from letting pets or friends 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. Certain cat flaps are rectangular while others are circular or square. The best type of cat flap is determined by the space you have available and the kind of door or window you intend to install it on.

Also consider the opening mechanism that your cat flap will have. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. However, it won't stop other pets or cats from entering your home and you could let draughts through too.

After you've chosen the right cat flap and measured the door or window then it's time to install it. Mark the belly height of the door using a ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is not too low and that it is straight across the door. Utilize your spirit level to draw a sketch of the cat flap. Then, use a saw to cut out the outline of the door. When you are satisfied with the result finish sanding the edges and drill through the pencil markings to create holes for screws.

Prepare the Tools


As with any DIY jobs, it's always recommended to have the right tools for the job. You'll need the cat flap, a pencil and tape measure as well as a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the type of window or door.

If you're installing a composite door, check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes, since this could cause the warranty to be invalidated or break the weathertight seal. In this case it's likely that you'll have to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass.

You'll require a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines given by the manufacturer. If possible, you can use a template to help you identify the dimensions of the hole you'll will need to cut.

After you have cut the hole, you'll have to sand the edges of the opening. This will stop any water damage or rust from happening in the near future. Also, you should apply any sealant you require to the rear of the cat flap and to the holes in the window or door to block the elements of wind and rain. After the sealant has dried and dry, you can install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to be able to come and go at will, installing a flap can help. It's a simple procedure that most people can accomplish on their own, but you may require the help of an expert for installing the flap on an unglazed door or any other kind of uPVC door.

Check out the directions that came with your cat flap. There is an illustration of the template. This will provide you with an idea of where the holes for the flap need to be drilled in the door. Note the areas you'll need to drill in using pencil.

After you've marked the door's opening then use a jigsaw cut out the shape of the cat flap. It is a relatively simple job, but you'll need to be comfortable using the Jigsaw. If you are concerned about doing it yourself, there are a lot of businesses that can handle this for you at a minimal cost.

The next step is to attach the inside of the flap onto the hole in your door. You may need to apply sealant before doing this to ensure that it stays watertight and weather resistant. You can then place the outer section of the cat flap on the top of the fixing bolts, and tighten them all together. You should test the cat flap on your cat to ensure that it functions properly and allows the cat to go in and out easily.

Read More: https://www.openlearning.com/u/guldbrandsenmichelsen-slt1cu/blog/CatFlapDoubleGlazing