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Fitting a Cat Flap
Installing a cat flap inside your home can be a huge step for any pet owner. There are numerous options for you, whether your cat is getting older and requires additional security or you have kittens that require to be checked.

It can be a bit daunting for those who aren't professionals to put in the cat flap, but with the right instructions it's easy. Preparation, planning and precision are the most important factors.

Choose the Right Door, or Window

There's a wide selection of cat flaps available including some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet going out or entering) and others that have high-tech features like microchip door entry systems. However, it's important to think about the ease of your cat to train to use the flap prior to making a buy and install one.

It's best to place the cat flap, depending on the style of your home, in an opening that leads into an area of the garden that is protected. This will allow your cat to feel safe when entering or leaving your home. This will also allow them to go back inside if they're chased by other animals or human who wants to harm them.

It's possible to put the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as simple as installing one in a wood door. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in different thicknesses. This can affect the how holes are cut and the material you put to.

To avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended that you consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you're installing the flap to the door made of wood, start by the cat with it prior to fitting it, so that they become familiar with its size and shape and explore it from all angles.

Take a look at your cat's belly measurement

It is important to know the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you choose to install is a perfect fit. This will help you ensure that the flap is at the right height on your window or door and that it's wide enough to allow them to get in and exit with ease.

To do this, lay your pet on their back and run your fingers gently across their belly. Feel for any fat pads that are squishy which might be visible around their lower back, face or the limbs. The padding provides your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics that felines are known for.

You can also use your pet's weight to determine the size of an opening you'll need. If your cat weighs 5kg, for instance, the suggested cat flap opening size is 14x12cm.

Make sure you measure your door or window

This type of cat flap, as the name suggests, is made to be fitted into a door. It allows your pet to move in and out at their convenience. These flaps are constructed 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. These flaps can be locked which provide extra security so your cat cannot simply walk through the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also often used in windows. They can be easily installed, but they have to be set at a height where cats and dogs have a difficult time to get them. If the window is not high enough to use a cat's flap, you can make use of steps, ramps or specially designed stairs to aid the animal in getting to it.

A cat flap could also be fitted to a brick wall, but this is not recommended unless you are skilled in masonry work as it could weaken the structure of the wall. It's important to check that there aren't any cables and pipes within the wall before you begin. It is recommended to consult an expert if you have to cut a hole in the wall for cables and pipes. It is also recommended to wear protective goggles and a dust mask to prevent inhaling any sawdust generated by cutting holes in your home's walls.

Select the Right Cat Flap

There are many different cat flaps available and they all have different features. Some have security options like magnetic locks or microchips that prevent unauthorized entry and also prevent your pet from allowing pets or friends into the house. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals that keep out water and drafts.

There is also a choice of sizes, based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular, while others are circular or square. The type 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.

Also, think about the mechanism to open your cat flap will have. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is one option and is usually the cheapest. However, it will not stop other pets or cats from entering and you may let draughts through too.

After you've chosen the appropriate cat flap and 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 is straight against the door and not too low. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, you can use your Jigsaw to cut the outline of the door. Once you are happy with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil markings to make holes for screws.

Prepare the Tools


It's important to have the right tools for undertaking any DIY project. You'll need a cat flap along with a pencil and tape measure as well as a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the kind of window or door.

If you're installing a composite door, it is recommended to consult with the manufacturer before making any changes since this could invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this case it's likely you'll 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 the Jigsaw. Follow the directions provided by the manufacturer. If possible, use a template to help you mark out the size of the hole you have to cut.

After you've made the hole, you must sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop future rust and water damage. It is also recommended to cover the holes in your door or window and the back of the flap to keep out rain and wind. After the sealant has dried, you can install your cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to come and go as it pleases, fitting flaps can aid. The majority of people can install the flap by themselves. However when you plan to install it on a glass or uPVC type door, you might need a professional.

Check out the directions that came with the cat flap. There is a drawing of the template. This will provide you with an idea of where holes for the flap will need to be drilled into the door. upvc door panel with cat flap 'll need to drill into with pencil.

After you've marked the area in your door then use a jigsaw cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task however, you'll need to be comfortable using a saw. Many companies will do this for you at a reasonable cost If you're not sure how to take on the task yourself.

Then, attach the outer part to the hole in your door. You may have to seal it prior to doing this to ensure that it stays watertight and weather resistant. You can then put the outer section of the cat flap on top of the fixing bolts and tighten the bolts all together. It is recommended to test the flap with your cat to ensure that it works correctly and that they are able to enter and leave easily through it.

Read More: https://stairways.wiki/wiki/Cat_Flap_Glass_Door_Installation_Near_Me