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Fitting a Cat Flap
Installing a cat flap in your home is a great option for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and needs extra security or you have a new kitten that require a thorough screening, there are plenty of options out there to choose from.

It can be difficult for those who aren't professionals to put in a cat flap, but with right instructions it's easy. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the keys.

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 stop your pet from going out or entering) and others with high-tech features such as microchips for door entry systems. But, it's important to think about how easy your cat is to train to use the flap before you purchase and install one.

Based on the style of your house, it's generally best to put the cat flap inside an opening or window that opens out into an area that is protected from the garden so that your cat will feel secure entering and leaving the home. If you can this will also allow them a route back in should they be chased by a cat or by humans intent to harm them.


It's possible to install the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't the same as fitting one on a wooden door. This is because uPVC and composite doors are available in various thicknesses, and this can impact the way holes are cut as well as what you're fixing into.

To avoid costly errors, it is recommended that you consult a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you're fitting the flap on a wooden door, start by the cat with it prior to fitting it to allow them to become familiar with its shape and size, and explore it from all angles.

Measure Your Cat's Belly

In order to install the right cat flap that's the right size for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's size. This will help you ensure that the flap is at the correct height on your door or window and that it's wide enough to allow them to get in and out easily.

To do this, put your pet on their back and run your fingers gently along their belly. Check for any squishy fat pads - these could be visible on their lower back, face, and limbs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline circus skills.

You can also consider your pet's weight as a way to determine the size of an opening you require. If your cat weighs at or above 5kg in weight for instance, a 14 x 12cm flap for the cat is recommended.

Make sure you measure your door or window

This kind of cat flap, as its name suggests, is designed to be installed into a door. It lets your pet be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. These flaps are constructed 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 locking versions of these flaps, which provide extra security, so your cat can't simply traverse through the door from outside.

A window is another popular location for a cat's flap, and they are simple enough to fit, although they often need to be located high enough as it's difficult for cats and dogs to access them. If the window is not high enough to use the flap for cats, you can use ramps, steps, or specially designed stairs to aid the animal in getting to it.

Cat flaps can also be fitted into a brick wall but it is not recommended unless experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the wall's structure. It is important to make sure there are no cables and pipes within the wall before you start. You should always consult an expert if you have to cut a hole in the wall for pipes and cables. Wearing protective glasses or a dust mask can ensure that you don't breathe in the sawdust created when cutting through your walls.

Choose the right cat flap

There are a variety of cat flaps available and all of them offer various features. Some cat flaps have security features, such as magnetic locks or microchips that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also stop your pet from allowing friends or another animal into the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to block water and drafts.

There's also a range of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, while others are circular or square. The kind of cat flap you pick will depend on the size of the opening and the kind of door or window you're installing it to.

Lastly consider the opening mechanism that your cat flap will have. A simple aluminium or plastic swing-out door is a good option and is usually the least expensive. It will not stop other animals and cats from entering the room, and you could be letting in drafts.

It's time to put in your cat flap. Begin by marking the height of the belly on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is not too low and is straight on the door. Use your spirit level to draw a sketch of the cat flap. Then, using cat flap in upvc door panel , cut the outline of the door. When you are satisfied with the result finish sanding the edges and drill through the pencil markings to make holes for screws.

Prepare the Tools

It is essential to have the right tools available when performing any DIY project. You'll require the cat flap, 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 check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes because this could cause the warranty to be invalidated or break the weathertight seal. In this case, you'll probably need to fit an entirely 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 provided by the manufacturer. If possible, you can use a template to help you determine the size of the hole you need to cut.

After you've made the hole, you should then sand down the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop any water damage or rust from happening in the future. It is also recommended to cover the holes in your door or window and the side of the flap to keep out wind and rain. After the sealant has dried then you can put up your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

Fitting a flap will allow your cat to go and come whenever it pleases. This is a simple process that most people can complete by themselves, though you will likely require the assistance of an expert if you're installing the flap on the form of a glass door or another kind of uPVC door.

Take a look at the instructions included with your cat flap. You will find a drawing of the template. This will give you an idea of where holes need to be drilled for the flap in the door. Then, mark the places in which you will must drill using pencil.

After you have mapped out the door's opening then use a jigsaw cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a relatively easy task, but you will require a good understanding of the jigsaw. If you are concerned about doing this yourself, there are a lot of companies that can complete this for you at a minimal cost.

The next step is to attach the inside of the cat flap to the door's hole. You may need to apply sealant before doing this to ensure it remains weather-proof and water resistant. You can then put the outer portion of the cat flap on the top of the fixing bolts and then tighten them all. It is recommended to test the cat flap with your cat to ensure that it functions properly and that they can move easily through it.

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