Installing a cat flap in your home is a great option for any pet owner. There are many options available to you, regardless of whether your cat is older and requires extra security, or you have kittens that need to be examined.

Installing a cat flap can be a daunting task for novices, but, with the right instructions, it's not hard to complete. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the keys.

Choose the Right Door or Windows

There are a variety of cat flaps available that come with locks (which can be used to stop your pet going out or entering) and others that have high-tech features such as microchip door entry systems. It is important to think about how it is easy to train your cat to use the flap before you buy and install one.

It is best to place the cat flap, depending on the style of your house, in 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, this will also give them a route back in should they be pursued by a different cat or by humans intent to hurt them.

You can put the cat flap on the form of a uPVC door or glass window, but it's not as easy as fitting one into a wooden door. This is because uPVC and composite doors are available in different thicknesses, which affect the way holes are cut and the materials you're fixing them into.

If you're installing the flap on the glass of a door, it's recommended that you seek out a glazier that is skilled in this type of work to avoid costly errors. If you're installing the flap to an existing wooden door, you should introduce your cat first to make sure it is familiar with its dimensions and shape.

Measure Your Cat's Belly

It is important to know the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap you choose to install is the perfect fit. This will help you ensure that the flap is the right height on your door or window, and that it's large enough to allow them to get in and exit easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers over their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back, face or legs. The padding provides your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics felines are famous for.

Alternatively, you can also consider your pet's weight as a way to gauge how big an opening you'll need. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg, for example the suggested flap opening size is 14x12cm.

Make sure you measure your door or window

This type of cat flap, as its name suggests is made to be fitted into the door. It lets your pet be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. These flaps are made of plastic or aluminum and are located in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that can be opened by gently pushing on either side. These flaps are available in locking versions that offer added security, which means that your cat can't traverse the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also commonly employed in windows. They are easy to be installed, but they have to be placed at a high level as cats and dogs find it difficult to reach them. If the window is too high for a cat flap, then ramps, steps or specially built stairs can be used to get more info assist the animal get access to it.

It is possible to install a cat flap into the brick wall, however it is not recommended for people who aren't experienced in brickwork. This could weaken the wall's structure. It's important to check that there are no cables and pipes in the wall prior to you begin. If they are, a hole needs to be created for them and this is something you should always seek professional advice on. Wearing protective glasses or a dust mask can read more ensure that you don't breathe in the dust that is generated when cutting through your walls.

Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.

There are many different cat flaps available and all of them offer various features. Some cat flaps have security features, such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block check here entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also keep your pet from letting friends or another animal into the home. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to keep out the elements of moisture and draughts.

There is also a choice of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, while others are circular or square. The kind of cat flap you choose will depend on the size of the opening and the kind of door or window you're fixing it to.

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

It's read more time to install your cat flap. Mark the belly height of the door using a ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is straight on the door and not too low. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, use a saw to cut out the door's outline. When you are satisfied with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil markings to create holes for screws.

Make the Tools

Like any DIY jobs, it's always best to have the appropriate tools for the job. The most important things you'll require are the cat flap along with a tape measure, an excellent pencil and a spirit level drill, file and the jigsaw (depending on your window or door type).

If you're installing in a composite door, check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes, because this could affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this case it's likely that you'll have 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 directions that are provided by the manufacturer. If click here you can, use an example to identify the dimensions of the hole you have to cut.

After you've cut the hole, you will need to sand the edges of the opening. 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 side of the flap to prevent wind and rain. After the sealant has dried then you can put up your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

The installation of a flap will allow your cat to come and go whenever it wishes. This is a straightforward process that most people can accomplish on their own, but you'll likely require the assistance of an expert for installing the flap on a glass door or other kind of uPVC door.

Begin by reading the instructions that come with your cat flap to locate the template. This will give you an idea of the location where the holes are to be made for the flap to be placed in the door. Then, mark the places where you need to drill with pencil.

After you have marked the door on your door, you can use the jigsaw to cut the the cat flap. It's a relatively easy task however you'll need be comfortable with a saw. Numerous companies will perform this for you for a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to do it yourself.

Next, you will need to attach the interior part of the flap onto the door's hole. It is possible to apply sealant prior to making this move to ensure it stays watertight and weather resistant. You can then put the outer part of the cat flap on the top of the fixing bolts and then tighten them all together. It is recommended that you test the cat flap with your cat to make sure that it works correctly and that they can move easily through it.