Installing a cat flap your home is an excellent option for any pet owner. There are numerous options for you, no matter if your cat is getting older and requires additional security or you have kittens that need to be examined.
Installing a cat flap can be daunting for non-professionals however, with the proper instructions, it's not difficult to complete. 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 going out or in and others with modern features such as microchips or a door entry systems. It is important to think about how easy it will be to train your cat to use the flap, before you buy and install one.
Depending on the style of your house It is recommended to put the cat flap inside a window or door that opens onto an area that is protected from the garden, so that your cat can feel safe when going into and out of the house. If you can this will also allow them a route back in should they get chased by a cat or by humans who are intent on harming them.
It is possible to install a cat flap in the form of a uPVC door or a glass window however it's not as straightforward as putting one in a wooden door. This is because uPVC and composite doors are available in different thicknesses, and this can impact the way holes are cut and what you're fixing into.
To avoid costly errors, it is recommended that you consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a door with a glass front. If you are fitting the flap into the door made of wood, you should introduce your cat first to ensure that it becomes familiar with its dimensions and shape.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
In order to put in an appropriate cat flap that is the right size for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat's height. This will ensure that the flap is the right height on your door or window, and that it's big enough to allow them to enter and exit easily.
To do this, place your pet on their back and gently rub your fingers along their belly. Check for any squishy fat pads - these might be visible around their lower back, face, and legs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline Acrobatics.
Alternately, you could make use of your pet's weight to gauge how big an opening you'll need. If your cat weighs at or above 5kg in weight for instance that's a 14x12cm flap for your cat is advised.
Measure your windows or doors
This kind of cat flap, as its name suggests is made to be fitted into the door. It allows your pet to move in and out at their convenience. They are typically made of plastic or aluminium and simply sit in the centre of the door. They have a two-way swinging door that is opened by pushing lightly on either side. The flaps are available with locking options that provide additional security so your cat cannot simply enter the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also commonly used on windows. They can be easily installed, however they have to be set at an elevated level since cats and dogs have a difficult time to access them. If the window is not sufficient in height to be used as a cat's flap, then you can make use of ramps, steps, or specially designed stairs to assist the animal in reaching it.
A cat flap can be installed into a brick wall, however this is not recommended unless you are experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the structure of the wall. It is essential to ensure that there aren't any cables or pipes inside the wall before you begin. You should always consult a professional if you need to cut a hole in the wall for pipes or cables. Wearing protective glasses or a dust mask can ensure that you don't breathe in the sawdust that is created when cutting into your walls.
Choose the right cat flap
There are many cat flaps available on the market, and they all offer different features. Some are equipped with security features like magnetic locks or microchips that prevent unauthorized entry and also restrict your pet from letting pets or friends into the house. Some have weatherproof seals and insulation to keep out the elements and keep out drafts.
There are also different sizes available depending on the breed and size of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular, while others are square or circular. Selecting cat flap fitters is determined by the space you have available and the kind of window or door you intend to install it on.
Last but not least, take into consideration the kind of opening mechanism your cat flap will use. A simple aluminum or plastic swing-out door is an option and is usually the least expensive. But, it will not stop other pets or cats from entering and you may let draughts through as well.
It's time to install your cat flap. Start by marking the belly's height on the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is straight on the door and not too low. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Next, use your Jigsaw to cut the outline in the door. When you're happy with the results sand down the edges and then drill through the pencil lines to create holes for the screws.
Make the Tools
Like any DIY tasks, it's recommended to have the right tools to complete the task. You'll require the cat flap, an eraser and tape measure along with a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the type of window or door.
If you're installing a composite door, you should check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes, because this could affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this scenario it's likely you'll have to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.
For wooden or uPVC doors will require cutting out the shape of your cat flap with the Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines provided by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to mark out the size hole you need.
After you've made the hole, you should then sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This should prevent any rust or water damage from happening in the near future. Finally, you should apply any sealant that is needed to the back of the cat flap and to the holes in the door or window to block rain and wind. After the sealant has dried and dry, you can install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
Fitting a flap will allow your cat to move around whenever it wishes. The majority of people can install the flap themselves. However, if you want to put it in a glass or uPVC type door, you might need an expert.
Check out the directions included with your cat flap. There is a drawing of the template. This will give you an idea of where holes for the flap have to be drilled into the door. Mark the areas in which you will must drill using pencil.
After you have mapped out the area in your door, use a jigsaw to cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task however, you'll need to be comfortable using the Jigsaw. Numerous companies will perform this task for you for a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to do it yourself.
The next step is to attach the interior part of the flap onto 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 place the outer part of the cat flap on top of the fixing bolts and then tighten the bolts all together. You should test the flap on your cat to ensure that it functions properly and that it allows them to enter and exit easily.