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Fitting a Cat Flap
Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is an excellent step for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have kittens who require a vet check There are plenty of options out there for you.

It can be intimidating for people who aren't experts in installing an animal flap, but with proper guidelines, it's easy. Planning, preparation and precision are the most important factors.

Select the Right Door or Windows

There are a wide variety of cat flaps to choose from, some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from going out or coming in) and others with high-tech features such as microchips for door entry systems. However, it's important to think about the ease of your cat to teach to use the flap before you purchase and fit one.

It is best to place the cat flap, based on the design of your home, inside a window that opens into a sheltered garden area. This will allow your cat to feel safe when entering or leaving your home. This will also allow them to get back inside if they're chased by another animal or humans who want to harm them.

It is possible to install a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as simple as installing one into a wood door. It's because uPVC or composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses. This can affect the way holes are cut, and the type of door you can fix to.

If window with cat flap installing the flap on the glass of a door it is recommended to find a glazier who is experienced in such work to avoid costly errors. If you're fitting the flap to a wooden door you must introduce your cat to it first to make sure it is familiar with its dimensions and shape.

Find out the size of your cat's belly

To install an appropriate cat flap that is the right size for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's height. This will help you ensure that the flap is the correct height on your window or door and that it's big enough for them to enter and out easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Check for any squishy fat pads - these may be visible around their lower back, face, and the limbs. The extra padding offers your pet safety and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics felines are famous for.

Alternatively, you can also consider your pet's weight as a way to determine the size of the opening you require. If your cat weighs 5kg, for instance the suggested flap size is 14 x 12cm.


Measure your door or window

Like the name suggests, this type of cat flap is designed to be fixed into a door and provides an opportunity for your pet to enter or leave at any time it wishes. These flaps are constructed of aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that opens by gently pressing on either side. These flaps are available with locking options that offer added security, so that your cat is not able to enter the door from outside.

A window is another common location for a cat flap and these are easy enough to put in, but they often need to be set up high as it is difficult for dogs and cats to reach them otherwise. If the window isn't sufficient in height to be used as a cat's flap, then you can opt for ramps, steps or stairs that are specially designed to aid the animal in getting to it.

Cat flaps can be installed into 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 or pipes in the wall prior to you start. If there are, a hole needs to be created for them and this is something you should always seek expert advice on. It is also recommended to wear safety goggles and a dust protection mask to avoid breathing in any of the sawdust created by cutting holes in your home's walls.

Select the Right Cat Flap

There are a variety of cat flaps available and each one comes with various features. Some come with security options such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition to prevent unauthorized entry and also stop your pet allowing guests or other animals to enter the home. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to block out moisture and draughts.

There are also different sizes available depending on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are available in rectangular shapes, whereas others are circular or square. The best type of cat flap is determined by the space you have available and the type of window or door you intend to install it on.

Last but not least, consider the type of opening mechanism your cat flap will use. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is an choice and is typically the least expensive. However, it will not stop other pets or cats from entering your home and you could let draughts in too.

It's time to install your cat flap. Begin by marking the belly height on the door with your ruler. Make use of a spirit-level to make sure that the line isn't too low and that it is straight across the door. Utilize your spirit level to draw a template of the cat flap. Then, using your Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. When you are satisfied with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil lines to create holes for screws.

Prepare the Tools

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

If you're installing a composite door, you should consult with the manufacturer prior to making any changes, since this could affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this case it's likely that you will need to replace the glass with a brand new piece of toughened glass.

You'll require the jigsaw to cut your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines provided by the manufacture. If you can, use an outline to help determine the size of hole you have to cut.

After you've made the hole, you'll have to sand the edges of the opening. This will prevent any water damage or rust from happening in the near future. It is also recommended to seal the holes in your window or door and the back of the cat flap to block wind and rain. After the sealant has dried it is time to install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

Fitting a flap will allow your cat to go and come whenever it wants. Most people can install the flap on their own. However, if you want to install it in the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you might need an expert.

Begin by reading the instructions that come with the flap to locate the drawing template. This will give an idea of the location where the holes are to be drilled for the flap in the door. Mark the areas that you'll must drill using the pencil.

After you've marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw and cut out the shape for the cat flap. This is a relatively simple task however you'll need be comfortable with the saw. If you are concerned about doing it yourself, there are a lot of companies that can complete this for you at a low cost.

Then, attach the outer part to the hole of your door. You may need to seal it prior to making this move to ensure it remains weather-proof and water resistant. The outer section of your cat flap could be placed on the bolts on top, and then securing them. It is recommended to test the cat flap with your cat to make sure that it works correctly and that they are able to enter and leave easily through it.

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