Installing a cat flap in your home is a great option for any pet owner. If your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have a new kitten who require a vet check, there are plenty of options out there to choose from.

It can be difficult for people who aren't experts in installing an animal flap, but with proper instructions, it's simple. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and precision.

Choose the Right Door or Window

There are many different types of cat flaps, including some with locks that can be used to prevent your pet from leaving or in, while others have advanced features like microchips for door entry system. But, 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's best to place the cat flap, depending on the design of your home, in a window that opens into an area of the garden that is protected. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering or leaving your home. This will also allow them to get back inside if they're pursued by a pet or human who wants to harm them.

It's possible to put a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it's not the same as fitting one in a wood door. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in various thicknesses. This can affect the way holes are cut, and the type of door you can fix into.

To avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended that you consult a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you're installing the flap in a wooden door, start by introduction of your cat to it before you fit it, so that they get used to its shape and size and explore it from all angles.

Measure Your Cat's Belly

You'll need your cat's measurements to make sure that the cat flap you install is the perfect fit. This will allow you to ensure that your cat flap is at the correct height on the window or door, and that it's big enough for him to get in and leave easily.

To do this, place your pet on their back and gently rub your fingers across their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back and face, as well as the limbs. The padding gives your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the acrobatics cats are famous for.

You can also make use of your pet's weight to determine the size of the opening you need. If your cat is at or above 5kg in weight for instance, a 14 x 12cm flap for the cat is recommended.

Make sure you measure your door or window

This type of cat flap, as the name suggests, is designed to be affixed to the door. It allows your pet to enter and exit at its convenience. These flaps are constructed of aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door. They have a two-way swinging opening that is opened by lightly pushing on either side. They are available with locking options that offer added security, so that your cat is not able to traverse the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also often employed in windows. They are able to be easily installed, however they have to be placed at a high level as cats and dogs find it difficult to get them. If the window is too high to use a cat flap, ramps, steps, or specially built stairs can be utilized to help the animal access it.

A cat flap can also be fitted into a brick wall but this is not recommended unless you are skilled in masonry work as it could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's essential to ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. If they are, a hole needs to be made for them. This is something that you should always seek expert advice on. Wearing protective glasses or a dust mask can allow you to avoid breathing in the dust that is generated when cutting into your walls.

Choose the right cat flap

There are numerous cat flaps available and all of them offer different features. Some come with security options like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that stop unauthorized entry and restrict your pet from letting friends or other animals into the house. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to block out draughts and moisture.

There are different sizes that are available based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are available in rectangular shapes, whereas others are circular or square. Choosing the right type of cat flap will be dictated by the space available and the type of door or window you want to attach it to.

Finally, think about the mechanism to open your cat flap will have. A simple aluminum or plastic swing-out door is one option and is usually the least expensive. However, it will not prevent other cats or pets from entering and you may let draughts in as well.

After you've chosen the right cat flap and measured the door or window and window, it's now time to put it in place it. Begin by marking the height of the belly on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit-level to make sure the line isn't too low and is straight on the door. Utilize your spirit level to draw a sketch of the flap for cats. Then, using the saw, cut out the outline of the door. When you're satisfied with the results sand down the edges and then drill through the pencil lines to create holes for the screws.

Prepare the Tools

As with all DIY jobs, it's always recommended to have the proper tools to complete the task. You'll require the cat flap along with an eraser and tape measure along with a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the type of door or window.

Consult the manufacturer before making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal to become broken. In this case it's likely you will need to replace the glass with a brand new piece of toughened glass.

You'll require an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines provided by the manufacture. If cat flap install can, use an example to identify the size of hole you have to cut.

After you've made the hole, you'll need to sand the edges of the opening. This will stop any water damage or rust from happening in the future. In the end, you must apply any sealant that is needed to the back of the cat flap and to the holes in the door or window to block rain and wind. After the sealant has dried it is time to install your new cat-flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to go and come as it pleases, fitting a flap can help. Most people can put in the flap themselves. However, if you want to put it in the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you may require an expert.

Look at the instructions that came with the cat flap. There is a template drawing. This will give an idea of the location where holes need to be drilled for the flap to be placed in the door. Then, mark the places where you must drill using pencil.

After you've marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw and cut out the the cat flap. This is a fairly simple job however you'll need be comfortable using the jigsaw. If you're worried about doing this yourself, there are plenty of companies that can complete this for you at a low cost.

The next step is to screw the inner part of the flap onto the hole in your door. You may need to apply sealant prior to doing this to ensure that it stays watertight and weather resistant. Then, you can put the outer portion of the cat flap on top of the fixing bolts, and tighten them all together. It is recommended to test the flap with your cat to ensure that it functions properly and that they are able to enter and leave easily through it.
cat flap install