Installing a cat flap in to your home can be a big step for any pet owner. There are numerous options for you, whether your cat is older and requires additional security or if you have kittens that need to be checked.
It can be intimidating for those who aren't professionals to put in a cat flap, but with the proper guidelines, it's easy. The key is preparation, planning and precision.
Select the Right Door or Window
There are many different types of cat flaps, some with locks that can be used to keep your pet from going out or inside, and others that have advanced features like microchips for door entry systems. It is important to think about how easy it is for your cat to teach to use the flap before you purchase and install one.
It is best to place the cat flap, depending on the design of your house, in the form of a window that opens to a garden that is sheltered. This will help your cat feel secure when entering and leaving your home. This will also allow them to get back inside if they are chased by another animal or human beings who wish to harm them.
You can install the cat flap on the form of a uPVC door or a glass window, but it's not as straightforward as putting one in a wooden door. This is because uPVC and composite doors come in different thicknesses, and this can impact the way holes are cut as well as the materials you're fixing them to.
To avoid costly mistakes to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended to consult an expert glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you're fitting the flap on an old wooden door, begin by introduction of your cat to it prior to fitting it so that they can become familiar with its shape and size and explore it from every angle.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
To install an appropriate cat flap that is suitable for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat. This will help you make sure that the flap is at the right height for the door or window and also that it's large enough for him to get in and out easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Look for any squishy fat pads that could be visible on their lower back, face or legs. The padding provides your pet safety and allows them to move more easily, especially 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 opening size is 14x12cm.
Make sure you measure your windows or doors
This type of cat flap, as its name suggests is designed to be affixed to the door. It lets your pet be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. The flaps are made of plastic or aluminum and are placed in the middle of the door. They have a two-way swinging opening that can be opened by gently pushing on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps that provide extra security, so your cat won't be able to simply enter the door from the outside.
A window is a common location for a cat flap and these are easy enough to install, though they often need to be located high enough as it's difficult for dogs and cats to access them. If the window is not sufficient in height to be used as the flap for cats, you can make use of ramps, steps, or stairs that are specially designed to assist the animal in reaching it.
Cat flaps can be incorporated into a brick wall but this is not recommended unless you're experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the wall's structure. It is essential to ensure that there are no cables and pipes within the wall before you begin. If they are, an opening must be made for them. This is something that you should always seek expert advice on. It's also advisable to wear safety goggles and a dust-proof mask to avoid inhaling any of the sawdust created by cutting through the walls of your house.
Choose the right cat flap
There are many different cat flaps on the market and each one comes with various features. Some come with security options such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition to block entry by unauthorized persons and stop your pet allowing guests or other animals to enter the home. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to keep out the elements of moisture and draughts.
There's also a variety of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular while others are square or circular. The kind of cat flap you select will depend on the size of the opening and the kind of door or window you're installing it to.
Finally, think about the opening mechanism that your cat flap is likely to have. The most affordable option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. However, it will not keep other animals or cats from gaining access and you could be letting draughts in too.
After you've chosen the correct cat flap and measured your windows or doors then it's time to install it. Start by marking the belly's height on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit-level to make sure that the line is not too low and is in line with the door. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, use a Jigsaw to cut the outline of the door. When you are satisfied with the result finish sanding the edges and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.
Prepare the Tools
As with all DIY tasks, it's recommended to have the right tools to complete the task. The most important things you'll require are the cat flap along with a tape measure, a good pencil, a spirit level, a file, drill and a Jigsaw (depending on your door or window type).
If you're installing a composite door, it is recommended to check with the manufacturer prior to making any alterations as this may cause the warranty to be invalidated or break the weathertight seal. In this scenario it's likely you will need to replace the glass with a brand new piece of toughened glass.
You'll need an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. If possible, you can use an outline to help mark out the dimensions of the hole you'll have to cut.
After you have cut the hole, you will have to sand off the edges of the opening. This will stop any future water damage or rust. Also, cat flap fitting should apply any sealant you require to the rear of the cat flap and to the holes in the door or window to keep out rain and wind. Once the sealant has dried, you can install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to go and come at will, installing flaps can be helpful. This is a simple process that most people can complete themselves, although you will likely require the assistance of a professional if you are 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 locate the template drawing. This will give you an idea of where holes need to be drilled for the flap to be placed in the door. Note the areas you'll have to drill with a 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, but you'll need to be comfortable using a saw. If you are concerned about doing this yourself, there are a lot of companies that can do this for you at a very low cost.
Then, screw the inner part to the hole in your door. It may be necessary to seal the flap before you do this to ensure it is waterproof and weatherproof. Then, you can put the outer section of the flap on the top of the fixing bolts and then tighten them all. It is recommended that you test the cat flap with your cat to make sure that it functions properly and that they are able to get in and out of it.