Installing a cat flap in your home is a fantastic option for any pet owner. If your cat is old and requires extra security, or you have new kittens that require a thorough screening, there are plenty of options out there for you.

Installing a cat flap could be a daunting task for novices, but, with the right instructions, it's not hard to do. The most important thing is planning, preparation and accuracy.

Select the Right Door, or Windows

There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, including some with locks that can be used to keep your pet from leaving or in and others with modern features such as microchips or a door entry systems. But, it's important to think about how easy your cat is to teach to use the flap before you purchase and fit one.

It is recommended to put the cat flap, depending on the design of your home, inside a window that opens into a sheltered garden area. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering or leaving your home. If possible it will also provide them a route back in case they are chased by a cat or by a human intent to harm them.

You can install a cat flap in a uPVC door or glass window however, it's not as simple as putting one in a wooden door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors are available in various thicknesses, which can affect how holes are cut and what you're fixing to.

To avoid costly errors, it is recommended to consult an expert glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you're installing the flap on the door made of wood, start by the cat with it prior to fitting it so that they can be familiar with its shape and size, and explore it from every angle.

Take a look at your cat's belly measurement

In order to put in the right cat flap that's a good fit for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's height. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is at the right height on your window or door and that it's large enough for them to enter and exit easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers across their belly. Feel for any fat pads that are squishy - these may be visible around their lower back, face, and limbs. The padding provides your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics felines are famous for.

Alternately, you could consider your pet's weight as a way to determine the size of an opening you require. If your cat is up to 5Kg in weight for instance, a 14 x 12cm flap for your cat is recommended.

Measure Your Door or Window

Like the name suggests, this type of cat flap is designed to be fixed into an opening and provide the pet with a way to go in or out whenever it wants. The flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door. They have a two-way swinging opening that is opened by gently pushing on either side. These flaps can be locked that offer added security, which means that your cat can't walk through the door from outside.

A window is a common location for a cat's flap, and they're easy enough to install, though they often need to be placed high up as it's difficult for cats and dogs to reach them otherwise. If the window is too high to use a cat flap, then ramps, steps, or specially built stairs can be utilized to help the animal access it.

A cat flap can be incorporated to a brick wall, but it is not recommended unless experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the wall's structure. It is essential to ensure that there aren't any cables or 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 professional advice on. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask will ensure that you don't breathe in the sawdust that is created when cutting through your walls.

Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.

There are numerous cat flaps on the market and they all have different features. Some come with security options such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition to block entry by unauthorized persons and restrict your pet from letting pets or friends into the home. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to block draughts and moisture.

There are different sizes available depending on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular while others are square or circular. The best type of cat flap is determined by the space available and the type of window or door you are fitting it to.

Lastly, think about the opening mechanism that your cat flap will come with. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It won't stop other animals and cats from entering, and you could also be letting in drafts.

Once you have selected the right cat flap and here measured your window or door, it's time to fit it. Make a mark on the belly of the door using a ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is sitting exactly on the door and not too low. Utilize your spirit level to draw a sketch of the flap for cats. Next, use your jigsaw to cut out the outline in the door. When you're satisfied with the results sand down the edges and drill through the pencil marks to create holes for the screws.

Prepare the Tools

As with all DIY get more info tasks, it's recommended to have the appropriate tools for the job. The most essential things you'll need are the cat flap as well as a tape measure, an excellent pencil as well as a spirit level, drill, file and an jigsaw (depending on the windows or doors).

If you're installing in a composite door, it is recommended to consult with the manufacturer before making any changes, because this could invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this instance, you'll probably need to fit an additional pane of toughened glass instead.

You'll require a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions given by the manufacturer. Use a template to mark the size hole you'll need.

After you've cut the hole, you will have to sand off the edges of the opening. This will prevent any water damage or rust from happening in the near future. You should also cover the holes in your window or door and the back of the cat flap to prevent rain and wind. After the sealant has dried it is time to install your cat flap!

Install the Flap

Installing a flap allows your cat to go and come whenever it wants. The majority of people can install the flap by themselves. check here However should you wish to install it on the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you may require a professional.

Look at the cat flap installation cost instructions that came with your cat flap. You will find a template drawing. This will give you an idea of where the holes for the flap need to be drilled in the door. Note the areas you'll have to drill with pencil.

After you've marked here the door's opening then use a jigsaw cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple job however you'll need be comfortable using the saw. If you are worried about doing it yourself, there are many businesses that can handle this for you at a minimal cost.

Then, screw the inner part to the hole of your door. You may have to apply sealant before doing this to ensure that it is weather and water resistant. The outer section of your cat flap could be placed on the bolts on top, and then securing them. It is recommended to test the flap using your cat to ensure that it is working properly and that they can get in and out of it.