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Installing a cat flap your home is a fantastic step for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and requires extra security, or you have kittens that require a thorough screening there are plenty of options there to choose from.

Installing a cat flap may be a daunting task for novices, however, with the proper instructions, it's easy to complete. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and precision.

Choose the Right Door or Windows

There are a variety of cat flaps, some with locks that can be used to stop your pet from leaving or in and others with advanced features like microchips for door entry system. cat flap fitters to think about how it is easy to teach your cat how to use the flap, before you purchase and install one.

It is best to place the cat flap, depending on the style of your home, inside an opening that leads into a garden that is sheltered. This will help your cat feel safe when entering or leaving your home. If possible this will also allow them a way back should they be pursued by a different cat or by humans who are intent to harm them.

It is possible to install a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as simple as installing one in a wood door. It's because uPVC or composite doors come in different thicknesses. This can impact the method of cutting holes, and what you fix to.

If you're installing the flap inside glass doors, it's recommended that you consult a glazier who specialises in such work to avoid any costly errors. If you're fitting the flap to a wooden door it is recommended that you introduce your cat to it first so that it can become familiar with its dimensions and shape.





Measure Your Cat's Belly

You'll need the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you install is the perfect fit. This will help you ensure that your cat flap is at the right height on the door or window, and that it is large enough to allow him to enter and exit easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Look for any squishy fat pads - these may be visible around their lower back, face and legs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline acrobatics.

You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you need. If your cat is up to 5Kg in weight, for example an opening of 14 x 12cm cat flap opening is advised.

Make sure you measure your window or door

This kind of cat flap, as its name suggests is made to be fitted into a door. It allows your pet to enter and exit at its convenience. They are usually made of plastic or aluminium and simply rest in the middle of the door. They come with an open door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. These flaps are available in locking versions that provide additional security which means that your cat can't walk through the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also commonly employed in windows. They are able to be easily installed, however they have to be placed at an elevated level since cats and dogs have a difficult time to reach them. If the window isn't sufficient to accommodate a cat's flap, then you can opt for ramps, steps, or specially designed stairs to help the animal reach it.

A cat flap can be installed into a brick wall but this is not recommended unless you are familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's essential to ensure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. Always consult a professional if you need to cut a hole in the wall for cables and pipes. It's also advisable to wear safety goggles and a dust mask to avoid breathing in any of the sawdust created by cutting holes in the walls of your house.

Select the Right Cat Flap

There are many different cat flaps available and each one comes with various features. Certain cat flaps come with security features such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also stop your pet from letting friends or animals to enter the house. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to keep out moisture and draughts.

There is also a choice of sizes, based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are available in rectangular shapes, while others are square or circular. Selecting the best cat flap is determined by the space you have available and the kind of window or door you are fitting it to.

Lastly consider the mechanism to open your cat flap will come with. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. But, it will not keep other animals or cats from gaining access and you could let draughts through too.

Once you have selected the appropriate cat flap and measured your windows or doors, it's time to fit it. Mark the belly height of the door using your ruler. Make use of a spirit-level to make sure the line is not too low and is straight on the door. Utilize your spirit level to draw a sketch of the flap for cats. Then, you can use your jigsaw to cut out the door's outline. When you are satisfied with the result finish sanding the edges and drill through the pencil markings to create holes for screws.

Make the Tools

It is essential to have the right tools when doing any DIY project. You'll need a cat flap as well as an eraser and tape measure as well as a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the type of door or window.

If you're installing a composite door, you should check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes, since this could invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this instance it's likely you'll need to replace the glass with a brand new piece of toughened glass.

For wooden or uPVC doors will require cutting out the shape of your cat flap with the Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines given by the manufacturer. Make use of a template to mark out the size hole you'll need.

After you have cut the hole, you'll have to sand off the edges of the opening. This will prevent any water damage or rust from happening in the future. Also, you should apply any necessary sealant to the rear of the cat flap and to the holes in the door or window to block rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry, you're ready to install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to go and come at will, installing flaps can be helpful. This is a straightforward process that most people can do themselves, although you'll likely need to hire an expert if you're installing the flap on an unglazed door or any other type of uPVC door.

Begin by reading the instructions provided with your cat flap to locate the drawing template. This will give you an idea of where the holes for the flap have to be drilled in the door. Mark the areas you'll need to drill in with a pencil.

Once you have marked out the area in your door and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a relatively simple job however, you'll need to be comfortable with the saw. Many companies will complete this work for you for a reasonable price if you are hesitant to tackle it 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 to keep it waterproof and weatherproof. The outer part of your cat flap can be placed on the bolts on top, and then tightened together. You should test the flap on your cat to make sure that it is working correctly and that it allows them to exit and enter easily.