Getting a cat flap fitted into your home could be a major step for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and requires extra security, or you have new kittens who require a vet check There are plenty of options out there to choose from.
Installing a cat flap could be daunting for non-professionals but, with the right instructions, it's not difficult to complete. Preparation, planning and precision are the most important factors.
Choose the Right Door or Window
There are a variety of cat flaps, including some with locks that can be used to prevent your pet from getting out or in and others with modern features such as microchips or a door entry system. But, it's important to think about how easy it is for your cat to train to use the flap before you purchase and install one.
It's best to place the cat flap, based on the style of your home, inside the form of a window that opens to a garden that is sheltered. This will allow your cat to feel safe when entering or leaving your home. This will also allow them to go back inside if they are pursued by a pet or humans who want to harm them.
It is possible to install a cat flap in a uPVC door or glass window, but it's not as easy as putting one in the door made of wood. This is because uPVC and composite doors come in various thicknesses, which affect the way holes are cut and what you're fixing into.
If you're installing the flap on a glass door it is recommended to find a glazier who is experienced in this kind of work to avoid any costly mistakes. If through wall cat flap installing the flap into a wooden door it is recommended that you introduce your cat first to make sure it is familiar with its dimensions and shape.
Find out the size of your cat's belly
You'll need the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap you install is a perfect fit. This will help you ensure that the flap is the correct height on your door or window and that it's large enough to allow them to get in and exit easily.
To do this, lay your pet on their back and run your fingers gently across their belly. Check for any squishy fat pads which might be visible around their lower back, face or limbs. The padding provides your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the acrobatics cats are famous for.
You can also consider your pet's weight as a way to determine the size of an opening you need. If your cat weighs more than 5Kg, for example the suggested cat flap size is 14 x 12cm.
Make sure you measure your door or window
Like the name suggests, this type of cat flap is designed to be fixed into a door and provides a way for your pet to leave or enter at any time it wishes. The flaps are made of plastic or aluminum and sit in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that opens by gently pushing on either side. There are locks on some of these flaps, which provide additional security to ensure that your cat won't be able to simply traverse through the door from outside.
A window is another common place to put a cat flap and these are easy enough to put in, but they usually need to be placed high up as it's difficult for dogs and cats to access them. If the window is not high enough to use a cat's flap, then you can opt for ramps, steps or specially designed stairs to help the animal reach it.
A cat flap can be installed into a brick wall but this is not recommended unless you are experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's essential to make sure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. You should always consult a professional if you need to cut a hole in the wall for pipes and cables. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask will help you avoid inhaling the sawdust that is created when you cut into your walls.
Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.
There are many cat flaps available on the market, and all offer different features. Certain cat flaps come with security features like magnetic locks or microchips which prevent unauthorised entry. They also keep your pet from letting friends or animals to enter the house. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to keep out moisture and draughts.
There are different sizes that are available based on the breed and size of your pet. Certain cat flaps are available in rectangular shapes, while others are square or circular. Choosing the right type of cat flap will be determined by the space available as well as the type of window or door you want to attach it to.
Lastly consider the mechanism to open your cat flap will have. A simple aluminium or plastic swing-out door is one alternative and is usually the least expensive. It won't stop other animals and cats from entering, and you could also be letting in draughts.
It's time to install your cat flap. Determine the belly height of the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is not too low and that it is straight across the door. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Next, use your jigsaw to cut out the outline of the door. Once you're happy with the results sand down the edges and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for the screws.
Prepare the Tools
As with all DIY tasks, it's recommended to have the appropriate tools to complete the task. The most essential things you'll need are the cat flap itself as well as a tape measure, an excellent pencil, a spirit level, a file, drill and a jigsaw (depending on the windows or doors).
Check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to become damaged. In this instance you'll likely require an entirely new pane of toughened glass instead.
You'll require the jigsaw to cut your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions given by the manufacturer. Make use of a template to mark the size hole you require.
After you've made the hole, you'll need to sand the edges of the opening. This will prevent any rust or water damage from occurring in the future. Also, you should apply any sealant that is needed to the rear of the cat flap as well as to the holes in the window or door to block rain and wind. When the sealant has dried, you're ready to install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to move around as it pleases, fitting a flap can help. Most people can put in the flap by themselves. However should you wish to put it in the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you may need a professional.
Begin by reading the instructions that come with the flap to locate the template. This will give you an idea of where the holes are to be drilled to install the flap on the door. Then, mark the places that you'll must drill using pencil.
After you have marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw to cut the design for the cat flap. It's a relatively easy task however, you'll need to be comfortable with the jigsaw. Many companies will do this work for you for a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to tackle it yourself.
Then, you can screw the inside part to the hole of your door. It may be necessary to seal the flap before you do this, in order to ensure it is weatherproof and watertight. You can then put the outer portion of the cat flap on the top of the fixing bolts, and tighten them all. You must test the cat flap on your cat to make sure that it is working correctly and allows them to exit and enter easily.