Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap your home is a fantastic step for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have kittens that need to be vetted, there are plenty of options there to choose from.

It can be a bit daunting for non-professionals to install a cat flap in bifold doors flap, but with the proper guidelines, it's easy. The key is preparation, planning and precision.

Choose the Right Door or Windows

There are a wide variety of cat flap installers near me flaps that are available that come with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet going out or coming in) and others that have high-tech features like microchip door entry systems. However, it's important to think about the ease of your cat to train to use the flap prior to making a buy and install one.

It is recommended to put the cat flap, based on the style of your house, in a window that opens into a sheltered garden area. This will allow your cat to feel safe when entering or leaving your home. This will also enable them to get back inside if they're chased by another animal or human beings who wish to hurt them.

You can put an egress flap inside a uPVC door or glass window however it's not as straightforward as fitting one into wooden doors. It's because uPVC or composite doors come in various thicknesses. This could affect the way holes are cut, and the material you put into.

If you're installing the flap inside glass doors it is recommended to find a glazier who is experienced in this kind of work to avoid any costly errors. If you're fitting the flap to the door made of wood, start by the cat with it before you fit it to allow them to get used to its shape and size, and explore it from all angles.

Take a look at your cat's belly measurement

You'll need your cat's measurements to ensure that the cat flap you choose to install is a perfect fit. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is at the right height for your door or window and that it's big enough to allow them to enter and exit with ease.

To do this, lay your pet on their back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Check for any fat pads that are squishy which could be visible on their lower back, face or limbs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline Acrobatics.

You can also take into account the weight of your pet to determine the size of opening you require. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg, for example, the suggested cat flap size is 14 x 12cm.

Make sure you measure your door or window

This type of cat flap, as the name suggests, is designed to be affixed to a door. It allows your pet to enter and exit at its convenience. They are usually made of aluminum or plastic and rest in the middle of the door. They have a two-way swinging door that opens by pressing lightly on either side. They can be locked that provide additional security so that your cat is not able to walk through the door from outside.

cat flap installation cost near me flaps are also commonly used on windows. They are easy to be installed, however they have to be set at a high level as cats and dogs find it difficult to get them. If the window is too high to be used as 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 into a brick wall, however it is not recommended unless you're skilled in masonry work as it could weaken the structure of the wall. It is essential to ensure that there are no cables and pipes within the wall before you begin. You should always consult an expert when you need to create a hole for pipes or cables. It's also advisable to wear protective goggles and a dust-proof mask to prevent inhaling any sawdust generated by cutting through the walls of your home.

Choose the right cat flap

There are many different cat flaps available and they all have various features. Some cat flaps have security features such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition which prevent unauthorised entry. They also prevent your pet from allowing friends or another animal into the home. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to block the elements of moisture and draughts.

There are various sizes available depending on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular while others are square or circular. Selecting the best cat flap cost near me flap will be determined by the space available as well as the type of window or door you intend to install it on.

Finally, think about the opening mechanism that your cat flap will come with. The most affordable option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. However, it will not stop other pets or cats from entering your home and you could be letting draughts in as well.

Once you've selected the right cat flap and measured the door or window, it's time to fit it. Determine the belly height of the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is sitting exactly on the door and not too low. Create a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Next, use your Jigsaw to cut the outline of the door. Once you are satisfied with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil markings to create holes for screws.

Make the Tools

Like all DIY tasks, it's recommended to have the appropriate tools to complete the task. You'll need the cat flap along with a pencil and tape measure, a spirit-level, a drill and a jigsaw depending on the kind of door or window.

Check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal broken. In this scenario you'll likely need to fit an additional pane of toughened glass instead.

You'll require a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions given by the manufacturer. If possible, use a template to help you mark out the size of the hole you'll have to cut.

After you've cut the required hole, you must sand down the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop any rust or water damage from occurring in the future. It is also recommended to seal the holes in your door or window and the side of the flap to keep out wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry it is time to install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

Installing a flap allows your cat to come and go whenever it wants. This is a simple process that most people can complete themselves, although you may require the help of an expert for installing the flap in a glass door or other kind of upvc door panels cat flap door.

Look at the instructions included with the cat flap. You will find a drawing of the template. This will give an idea of the location where the holes will be drilled to install the flap to be placed in the door. Mark the areas you'll need to drill into with a pencil.

After you have marked the door on your door, use the jigsaw to cut the design for the cat flap. It is a relatively simple task, but you'll have to be comfortable using the Jigsaw. Numerous companies will perform this for you for a reasonable price if you are hesitant to tackle it yourself.

Then, screw the inner part to the hole of your door. You may need to seal it prior to making this move to ensure it remains weather-proof and water resistant. The outer section of your cat flap may be placed on the bolts on top, and then securing them. It is recommended to test the flap using your cat to make sure that it works correctly and that they can get in and out of it.