Installing a cat flap in your home is an excellent step for any pet owner. If your cat is old and needs extra security or you have kittens who require a vet check there are a lot of options there to choose from.
It can be intimidating for those who aren't professionals to put in a cat flap, but with the proper guidelines, it's easy. Planning, preparation and precision are the most important factors.
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 getting out or in and others with modern features such as microchips or a door entry system. It is important to consider how easy it will be to teach your cat how to use the flap before you purchase and install one.
Based on the style of your house It is recommended to put the cat flap in a window or door that opens to a sheltered area of the garden so your cat will feel secure leaving and entering the home. This will also allow them to return inside if they are chased by other animals or humans who want to hurt them.
It's possible to install the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it's not as easy as putting one on a wooden door. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in different thicknesses. This can impact the how holes are cut and what you fix 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 onto an existing wooden door you must introduce your cat first to ensure that it becomes familiar with its size and shape.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
In order to put in an appropriate cat flap that is a good fit for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat's size. This will allow you to ensure that the cat flap is at the correct height on the window or door, and also that it's large enough for him to get in and exit easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back, face or legs. The extra padding offers your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics that felines are famous for.
You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine the size of opening you require. If your cat weighs more than 5Kg, for example the suggested cat flap size is 14x12cm.
Measure your windows or doors
Like the name suggests, this type of cat flap is designed to be affixed to a door and provides the pet with a way to go in or out as it pleases. They are usually made of aluminum or plastic and sit in the centre of the door. They come with an open door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. The flaps are available in locking versions that provide additional security so that your cat is not able to traverse the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also commonly employed in windows. They can be easily installed, however they have to be installed at a height where cats and dogs find it difficult to get them. If the window is too high to use a cat flap, then ramps, steps, or specially constructed stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it.
Cat flaps can be installed to a brick wall, but it is not recommended unless familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the wall's structure. It is important to make sure there are no cables and pipes inside the wall before you begin. You should always consult an expert when you need to make a hole for cables and pipes. It is also recommended to wear protective goggles and a dust-proof mask to prevent inhaling any sawdust that is created by cutting holes in the walls of your home.
Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.
There are a variety of cat flaps on the market and each one comes with different features. Some come with security options like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry and also prevent your pet from allowing friends or other animals into the home. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to block out draughts and moisture.
There are also different sizes that are available based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are available in rectangular shapes, whereas others are circular or square. The type of cat flap you select will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the type of window or door you're fixing it to.
The last thing to do is consider the type of opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. It won't prevent other cats and pets from entering, and you could also let in draughts.
It's time to put in your cat flap. Begin by marking the height of the belly 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. Utilize your spirit level to draw a template of the cat flap. Then, using the Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. Once you're happy with the result, sand the edges and drill through the pencil lines to create holes for the screws.
Prepare the Tools
It's important to have the right tools available when undertaking any DIY project. You'll require the cat flap as well as tape measure and pencil as well as a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the type of door or window.
Check with the manufacturer prior to making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to be broken. In this scenario you'll likely require an additional pane of toughened glass instead.
You'll need a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. If possible, use a template to help you identify the size of hole you'll have to cut.
After you've cut the required hole, you should then sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will help prevent any future water damage or rust. Finally, you should apply any necessary sealant to the rear of the cat flap and to the holes in the window or door to block the elements of wind and rain. Once the sealant has dried, you can install your new cat flap!
Install cat flap insulation
If you want your cat to be able to come and go at will, installing flaps can be helpful. This is a simple process that most people can complete themselves, although you will likely require the help of an expert if you're installing the flap in a glass door or other type of uPVC door.
Start by looking at the instructions provided with your cat flap to find the template drawing. This will give you an idea of where holes for the flap have to be drilled into the door. Then, mark the areas that you'll need to drill with pencil.
After you have mapped out the door's area, use a jigsaw to cut out the design of the cat flap. It is a relatively simple task, but you will need to be comfortable using the saw. Many companies will complete this for you at a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to take on the task yourself.
Next, you will need to screw the inner part of the flap onto the door's hole. It might be necessary to seal the flap before you do this, in order to keep it weatherproof and watertight. The outer section of your cat flap can be placed on the bolts' tops and then securing them. It is recommended to test the flap using your cat to make sure that it functions properly and that they are able to enter and leave easily through it.