Notes

Fitting a Cat Flap
Getting a cat flap fitted in to your home can be a major 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 there to choose from.

It can be intimidating for people who aren't experts in installing a cat flap, but with the proper guidelines, it's easy. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and precision.

Select the Right Door or Windows

There are a variety of cat flaps, some with locks that can be used to keep your pet from leaving or in, while others have high tech features like microchip door entry system. It is important to consider how it is easy to teach your cat to use the flap before you buy and install one.

Depending on the style of your home, it's usually best to situate the cat flap in a window or door that opens onto an area that is protected from the garden, so that your cat is secure when leaving and entering the home. If you can, this will also give them a route back in should they be pursued by a different cat or by a human intent to hurt them.

It is possible to install a cat flap in the case of a uPVC door or a glass window however it's not as easy as putting one in wooden doors. It's because uPVC or composite doors come in different thicknesses. This could affect the way holes are cut, and the type of door you can fix into.

To avoid costly errors, it is recommended that you consult an expert glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you're installing the flap to the door made of wood you must introduce your cat to it at first to make sure it is familiar with its dimensions and shape.

Take upvc cat flap door panels at your cat's belly measurement

In order to put in a cat flap that's the right size for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat's height. This will help you ensure that your cat flap is at the right height on the door or window, and also that it's large enough for him to enter and out easily.

To do this, lay 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, face or legs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline circus skills.

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

Take a measurement of your window or door

Like the name suggests the cat flap is made to be attached to a door and provides the pet with a way to go in or out whenever it wants. These flaps are made of plastic or aluminum and are located in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that is opened by gently pressing on either side. There are locks on some of these flaps that provide extra security, so your cat can't simply traverse through the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also often used on windows. They are easy to be installed, however they have to be placed at a height where cats and dogs find it difficult to reach them. If the window is too high for a cat flap, steps, ramps or purpose built stairs can be utilized to help the animal access it.

It is possible to put the cat flap onto a brickwall, but it is not recommended for those who aren't familiar with the masonry industry. This could cause the wall to weaken. Before you begin, it's important to ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. It is recommended to consult a professional if you need to create a hole for pipes or cables. It's also advisable to wear safety goggles and a dust protection mask to prevent inhaling any sawdust generated by cutting into the walls of your house.

Select the Right Cat Flap

There are many cat flaps available on the market, and they come with various features. Some are equipped with security features like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by unauthorized persons and prevent your pet from allowing guests or other animals to enter the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to block draughts and moisture.

There are different sizes available depending on the breed and size of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are square or circular. Selecting the best cat flap will be dictated by the space you have available as well as the type of window or door you are fitting it to.

The last thing to do is think about the opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is an alternative and is usually the cheapest. It will not stop other cats and pets from entering, and you could also be letting in draughts.

It's time to put in your cat flap. Determine the belly height of the door using a ruler. Use a spirit-level to make sure that the line is not too low and is straight on the door. Utilize your spirit level to draw a template for the flap for cats. Then, using the saw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you are satisfied with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil markings to create holes for screws.

Make the Tools


It is essential to have the right tools when undertaking any DIY project. The most important things you'll require are the cat flap, a tape measure and a good pencil as well as a spirit level, drill, file and a Jigsaw (depending on your door or window type).

If you're installing a composite door, it is recommended to consult with the manufacturer prior to making any alterations because this could invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this scenario, it's likely that you'll need to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.

You'll need to use an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions provided by the manufacture. If you can, use an example to determine the size of hole you have to cut.

After you've cut the hole, you will need to sand the edges of the opening. This will stop the possibility of water damage and rust. In the end, you must apply any necessary sealant to the rear of the cat flap, and to the holes in the door or window to block the elements of wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry then you can put up your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

The installation of a flap will allow your cat to come and go whenever it wishes. Most people can put in the flap themselves. However, if you want to install it in glass or uPVC type door, you may need an expert.

Begin by studying the instructions included with your cat flap to locate the template. This will provide you with an idea of where holes for the flap have to be drilled into the door. Mark the areas you'll have to drill with a pencil.

Once you have marked out the door's area, use a jigsaw to cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a relatively easy job, but you'll require a good understanding of a Jigsaw. Many companies will complete this task for you at a reasonable price If you're not sure how to tackle it yourself.

The next step is to attach the inside of the cat flap to the door's hole. It is possible to apply sealant before doing this to ensure it remains weather-proof and water resistant. Then, you can put the outer portion of the flap on the top of the fixing bolts and then tighten them all. It is recommended to test the flap using your cat to make sure that it is working properly and that they are able to get in and out of it.

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