Getting a cat flap fitted in to your home can be a huge step for any pet owner. There are a variety of options for you, no matter if your cat is getting older and needs extra security or if you have kittens that need to be vetted.

Installing a cat flap could be intimidating for people who aren't professionals, but with the right instructions, it's not hard to complete. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and precision.

Choose the Right Door or Windows

There are many different types of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to prevent your pet from going out or in, while others have high tech features like microchip door entry systems. It's important to think about how easy it will be to teach your cat to use the flap before you purchase and install one.

Depending on the style of your house It is recommended to situate the cat flap in an opening or window that opens to an area that is protected from the garden so that your cat is secure when entering and leaving the home. This will also enable them to get back inside if they are pursued by a pet or human beings who wish to harm them.

You can put a cat flap in the case of a uPVC door or glass window however it's not as simple as putting one in a wooden door. This is because uPVC or composite doors come in various thicknesses. This can impact the method of cutting holes, and the type of door you can fix to.

If you're installing the flap in a glass door 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 you must introduce your cat to it at first so that it can become familiar with its dimensions and shape.

Find out the size of your cat's belly

In order to put in an appropriate cat flap that is a good fit for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat's height. This will enable you to make sure that the flap is installed at the correct height on the door or window and that it is large enough to allow him to enter and out easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers across their belly. Look for any fat pads that are squishy that could be visible on their lower back, face, and limbs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline acrobatics.

You can also use the weight of your pet to determine how large opening you require. If your cat weighs more than 5Kg, for example the suggested flap opening size is 14 x 12cm.

Take a measurement of your door or window

As the name suggests this kind of cat flap is designed to be affixed to a door and provides an opportunity for your pet to enter or leave at any time it wishes. These flaps are constructed of aluminum or plastic and are located 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 locking versions of these flaps that provide additional security to ensure that your cat isn't able to traverse through the door from outside.

A window is another common location for a cat flap, and they are simple enough to install, though they are usually placed high up as it's difficult for cats and dogs to access them. If the window isn't sufficient to accommodate a cat's flap, then you can use steps, ramps or stairs that are specially designed to aid the animal in getting to it.

It is possible to insert a cat flap into brick walls, however it is not recommended for those who are not experienced in the masonry industry. This could cause the wall to weaken. It's important to check that there aren't any cables or pipes within the wall before you start. You should always consult a professional if you need to create a hole for pipes or cables. It is also recommended to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust mask to avoid inhaling any sawdust that is created by cutting through the walls of your house.

Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.

There are numerous cat flaps on the market, and they all offer various features. Certain cat flaps come with security features, such as magnetic locks or microchips that prevent unauthorized entry. They also prevent your pet from allowing friends or other animals into the house. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to block water and drafts.

There's also a range of sizes 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 will be determined by the space you have available and the kind of window or door you intend to install it on.

Finally think about the mechanism for opening your cat flap is likely to have. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. It won't prevent other animals and cats from entering, and you could also be letting in drafts.

Once you've selected the correct cat flap and measured the windows or doors then it's time to install it. Mark the belly height of the door with your ruler. Use a spirit-level to make sure the line is not too low and is straight on the door. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, you can use your saw to cut out the door's outline. Once you are satisfied with the result finish sanding the edges and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.

Make sure you have the tools ready

It's essential to have the right tools when performing any DIY project. cat flap installers near me 'll require are the cat flap itself along with a tape measure, a good pencil as well as a spirit level, drill, file, and an Jigsaw (depending on the window or door type).

Check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a door made of composite. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal damaged. In this case it's likely you'll have to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass.

You'll need to use an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow cat flap double glazing provided by the manufacture. If possible, you can use an example to determine the size of the hole you'll have to cut.

After you've made the hole, you should then sand down the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will help prevent the possibility of water damage and rust. Also, you 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 the elements of wind and rain. After the sealant has dried, you can install your cat flap!

Install the Flap

Installing a flap allows your cat to come and go whenever it wants. Most people can put in the flap on their own. However, if you want to install it in glass or uPVC type door, you might need a professional.

Begin by studying the instructions provided with your cat flap to find the template. This will provide you with an idea of where holes for the flap need to be drilled in the door. Note the areas you'll need to drill in using pencil.

Once you have marked out the door's area and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple job, but you'll need to be comfortable using a Jigsaw. Numerous companies will perform this for you for a reasonable price if you are hesitant to take on the task yourself.

The next step is to attach the interior part of the flap onto the hole in your door. It may be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this, in order to ensure it is weatherproof and watertight. You can then place the outer part of the flap on the top of the fixing bolts and then tighten the bolts all together. It is recommended to test the flap using your cat to make sure that it is working properly and that they can move easily through it.
cat flap installers near me