Installing a cat flap in to your home can be a major step for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and requires additional security, or you have new kittens who require a vet check, there are a lot of options there for you.
Installing a cat flap may be intimidating for people who aren't professionals, but, with the right instructions, it's not difficult to complete. Planning, preparation and precision are the key to success.
Select the Right Door or Windows
There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, some with locks that can be used to keep your pet from leaving or in, while others have high tech features like microchip door entry systems. But, cat flap installation to think about how easy it is for your cat to train to use the flap prior to making a purchase and install one.
Depending on the design of your house, it's generally best to put the cat flap near a window or door that opens out into an area that is protected from the garden, so that your cat can feel safe when entering and leaving the home. If you can it will also provide them a way back should they get chased by a cat or by humans intent to harm them.
You can put an egress flap inside the form of a uPVC door or glass window however, it's not as simple as putting one in wooden doors. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in different thicknesses. This can impact the way holes are cut, and the type of door you can fix to.
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 in the door made of wood, start by the cat with it before you fit it so that they can get used to its shape and size and explore it from every angle.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
To install a cat flap that's suitable for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat. This will enable you to make sure that the flap is installed at the correct height on the door or window and that it's big enough for him to get in and exit easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Check for any squishy fat pads - these could be visible on their lower back, face and limbs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline acrobatics.
You can also make use of your pet's weight to determine the size of the opening you require. If your cat weighs 5Kg, for example the suggested cat flap opening size is 14x12cm.
Make sure you measure your windows or doors
This kind of cat flap, as the name suggests is designed to be affixed to a door. It lets your pet enter and exit at its convenience. They are usually made of aluminum or plastic and rest in the middle of the door. They come with an open door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps that offer added security so your cat isn't able to walk through from the outside.
Cat flaps are also frequently used in windows. They can be easily installed, but they have to be set at a height where cats and dogs have a difficult time to access them. If the window isn't high enough to use the flap for cats, you can make use of ramps, steps or stairs that are specially designed to aid the animal in getting to it.
It is possible to install an egress into a brickwall, but it is not recommended for people who are not experienced in brickwork. This could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it's important to make sure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. If there are, an opening must be created for them and this is something that you should always seek expert advice on. Wearing protective glasses or a dust mask can help you avoid inhaling the sawdust created when cutting through your walls.
Choose the right cat flap
There are many cat flaps that are available on the market, and they have different features. Certain cat flaps come with security features like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also stop your pet from allowing friends or animals to enter the home. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to keep out water and drafts.
There is also a choice of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, whereas others are circular or square. The type of cat flap you pick will depend on the size of the opening and 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 use. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It won't stop other pets and cats from entering, and you could also be letting in drafts.
It's time to put in your cat flap. Make a mark on the belly of the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure the line is not too low and that it is straight across the door. Create a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, using the Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. Once you are satisfied with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for screws.
Make the Tools
It is essential to have the right tools available when doing any DIY project. You'll require the cat flap, tape measure and pencil along with a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the kind of door or window.
Contact the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal broken. In this case you'll require an entirely new pane of toughened glass instead.
For wooden or uPVC doors, you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap using the jigsaw and follow the instructions given by the manufacturer. If you can, use an example to identify the size of hole you have to cut.
After you've made the hole, you must smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop any rust or water damage from happening in the future. It is also recommended to cover the holes in your door or window and the back of the cat flap to keep out wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry and dry, you can install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
Fitting a flap will allow your cat to go and come whenever it wishes. Most people can install the flap on their own. However, if you want to put it in a glass or uPVC type door, you might need a professional.
Begin by studying the instructions that come with the flap to locate the template. This will give you an idea of where the holes for the flap need to be drilled into the door. Note the areas you'll need to drill into using a pencil.
After you have mapped out the area in your door, use a jigsaw to cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a relatively easy task, but you will need to be comfortable using the Jigsaw. Many companies will complete this for you at a reasonable price If you're not sure how to take on the task yourself.
Next, you will need to attach the interior part of the cat flap to the hole in your door. It is possible to seal the flap prior to you do this in order to keep it waterproof and weatherproof. You can then place the outer portion of the cat flap on the top of the fixing bolts and then tighten the bolts all together. You should test the flap on your cat to ensure that it functions properly and allows the cat to go in and out easily.