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 a new kitten that need to be vetted, there are plenty of options out there for you.
It can be intimidating for people who aren't experts in installing an animal flap, but with right instructions it's easy. The key is preparation, planning and precision.
Select the Right Door, or Windows
There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to prevent your pet from leaving or inside, and others that have modern features such as microchips or a door entry system. It is important to consider how it is easy to train your cat to use the flap, before you purchase and install one.
Based on the style of your house, it's generally best to put the cat flap near a window or door that opens onto an area that is protected from the garden so your cat is secure when going into and out of the house. If possible it will also provide them a way back should they get pursued by a different cat or by humans intent to harm them.
You can install a cat flap in the form of a uPVC door or a glass window however it's not as straightforward as fitting one into the door made of wood. This is because uPVC and composite doors are available in a variety of thicknesses, which affect how holes are cut and what you're fixing into.
If you're installing the flap in a glass door it is recommended to consult a glazier who specialises in this kind of work to avoid any costly mistakes. If you're installing the flap to an old wooden door, begin by the cat with it prior to fitting it, so that they be familiar with its shape and size and explore it from every angle.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
To install the right cat flap that's the right size for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat's size. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is at the right height for your door or window and that it's big enough for them to enter and out easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Feel for any fat pads that are squishy that may be visible around their 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.
You can also take into account the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you require. If your cat weighs up to 5kg, for instance, the suggested cat flap opening size is 14 x 12cm.
Make sure you measure your window or door
As the name suggests this kind of cat flap is made to be attached to an opening and provide the pet with a way to go in or out as it pleases. They are usually made of aluminum or plastic and sit in the centre of the door with an open door that is opened by pushing lightly on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps that provide added security so your cat won't be able to simply enter the door from the outside.
Cat flaps are also frequently used in windows. They are easy to be installed, but they have to be placed at an elevated level since cats and dogs have a difficult time to reach them. If the window is not high enough to use a cat's flap, then you can opt for ramps, steps, or specially designed stairs to assist the animal in reaching it.
It is possible to put a cat flap into brick walls, however it is not recommended for people who are not experienced in masonry. This could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it is important to make sure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. Always consult an expert if you have to create a hole for pipes or cables. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask can ensure that you don't breathe in the sawdust created when cutting into your walls.
Choose the right cat flap
There are numerous cat flaps that are available on the market, and come with various features. Some come with security options like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that stop unauthorized entry and restrict your pet from letting pets or friends into the home. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to keep out moisture and draughts.
There's also a variety of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are circular or square. The kind of cat flap you pick will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the type of window or door you're fitting it to.
Lastly consider the mechanism to open your cat flap is likely to have. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is a good alternative and is usually the least expensive. However, it will not stop other pets or cats from entering and you may be letting draughts in as well.
It's time to put in your cat flap. Make a mark on the belly of the door using your ruler. Make use of a spirit-level to make sure that the line is not too low and is in line with the door. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, using your Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. Once you're happy with the result, sand the edges and then drill through the pencil lines to create holes for the screws.
Make sure you have the tools ready
It's important to have the right tools for doing any DIY project. You'll need the cat flap along with a pencil and tape measure along with a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the kind of door or window.
Consult the manufacturer before making any changes to a door made of composite. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal to become broken. In this scenario it's likely that you will need to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.
For wooden or uPVC doors you'll need to cut out the shape of your cat flap using the jigsaw and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. If you can, use a template to help you determine the size of hole you need to cut.
After you've made the hole, you must sand down the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will prevent any future water damage or rust. It is also recommended to seal the holes in your window or door and the back of the cat flap to prevent rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry and dry, you can install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to come and go as it pleases, fitting flaps can be helpful. The majority of people can install the flap on their own. However, if you want to put it in glass or uPVC type door, you may require an expert.
Take a look at the instructions included with the cat flap. You will find an illustration of the template. This will provide you with an idea of where the holes for the flap need to be drilled into the door. Mark the areas in which you will need to drill with a pencil.
After you have marked the area on your door, you can use the jigsaw and cut out the shape for the cat flap. It's a relatively easy task however you'll need be comfortable with the saw. If you are concerned about doing this yourself, there are many companies that can do this for you at a very low cost.
Then, you can screw the inside part of the door to the hole in your door. You may need to seal it prior to doing this to ensure it is weather and water resistant. The outside of your cat flap could be placed on the bolts on top, and then securing them. You should test the flap on your cat to confirm that it is working correctly and allows them to exit and enter easily.