Installing a cat flap in your home is an excellent step for any pet owner. If your cat is old and needs extra security or you have kittens who require a vet check, there are plenty of options there for you.

It can be a bit daunting for people who aren't experts in installing a cat flap, but with right instructions it's easy. Planning, preparation and precision are the most important factors.

Choose the Right Door, or Window

There are a variety of cat flaps, some with locks that can be used to keep your pet from going out or in and others with modern features such as microchips or a door entry systems. But, it's important to consider the ease of your cat to train to use the flap before you buy and install one.

It's best to place the cat flap, based on the design of your home, in a window that opens into a garden that is sheltered. This will allow your cat flap Bifold Doors to feel safe when entering or leaving your home. This will also enable them to return inside if they are chased by another animal or human who wants to hurt them.

It's possible to install a double glazing cat flap-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it's not the same as fitting one in a wood door. It's because replacement upvc door panel with cat flap or composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses. This could affect the way holes are cut, and the type of door you can fix to.

If you're installing the flap inside glass doors it is recommended to find a glazier who is experienced in such work to avoid any costly mistakes. If you're fitting the flap on an old wooden door, begin by introduction of your cat to it prior to fitting it so that they can get used to its shape and size, and explore it from all angles.

Measure Your Cat's Belly

In order to put in an appropriate cat flap that is the right size for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat's height. This will ensure that the flap is at the right height for your window or door and that it's big enough to allow them to enter and exit with ease.

Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers over their belly. Feel for any fat pads that are squishy - these may be visible around their lower back, face or legs. The extra padding offers your pet safety and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the acrobatics cats are famous for.

You can also take into account the weight of your pet to determine the size of opening you require. If your cat weighs at or over 5kg, for example that's a 14x12cm flap for the cat is recommended.

Measure Your Door or Window

This type of cat flap, as the name suggests is designed to be installed into a door. It allows your pet to move in and out at their convenience. They are usually made of aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door with the possibility of a swinging door that opens by pushing lightly on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps that offer extra security, so your cat won't be able to simply walk through from the outside.

A window is a common location for a cat flap glass door installation near me's flap, and they're easy enough to fit, although they are usually placed high up as it's difficult for dogs and cats to reach them otherwise. If the window is too high for a cat flap then steps, ramps or purpose built stairs can be utilized to aid the animal in accessing it.

It is possible to insert an egress into brick walls, however it is not recommended for people who are not experienced in brickwork. This could cause the wall to weaken. Before you begin, it's important to ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. You should always consult an expert if you have to create a hole for pipes and cables. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask will allow you to avoid breathing in the sawdust created when cutting through your walls.

Select the Right Cat Flap

There are numerous cat flaps available on the market, and all offer different features. Some cat flaps have security features like magnetic locks or microchip recognition which prevent unauthorised entry. They also stop your pet from letting guests or another animal into the home. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to block out draughts and moisture.

There are various sizes available depending on the breed and size of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, while others are circular or square. The type 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.

Finally, think about the mechanism to open your cat flap fitting near me flap will have. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. However, it won't prevent other cats or pets from gaining access and you could let draughts in as well.

Once you have selected the appropriate cat flap and measured your door or window then it's time to install it. Determine the belly height of the door using a ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is sitting straight on the door and not too low. Use your spirit level to draw a sketch of the flap for cats. Then, using a jigsaw, cut out the outline of the door. When you're satisfied with the result, sand the edges and then drill through the pencil lines to make holes for the screws.

Prepare the Tools

As with all DIY tasks, it's best to have the right tools for the job. You'll require the cat flap along with tape measure and pencil, a spirit-level, a drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the type of window or door.

If you're installing a composite door, consult with the manufacturer prior to making any changes since this could cause the warranty to be invalidated or break the weathertight seal. In this case you'll likely need to fit an additional pane of toughened glass instead.

For wooden or replacement upvc door panel with cat flap doors, you'll need to cut out the shape of your cat flap with the Jigsaw. Follow the directions given by the manufacturer. If possible, use a template to help you determine the size of hole you need to cut.

After you've cut the required hole, you'll need to sand down the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will help prevent any future water damage or rust. You should also seal the holes in your window or door and the back of the cat flap to keep out wind and rain. After the sealant has dried then you're now ready to put in your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

The installation of a flap will allow your cat to come and go whenever it wants. Most people can install the flap themselves. However should you wish to put it in glass or uPVC type door, you might need an expert.

Look at the instructions included with the cat flap. There is a template drawing. This will give you an idea of the location where holes need to be drilled to install the flap in the door. Mark the areas you will need to drill into using pencil.

After you have marked the door on your door, use the jigsaw to cut the shape for the cat flap. It's a relatively easy job however, you'll need to be comfortable with the jigsaw. If you are worried about doing this yourself, there are plenty of companies that can complete this for you at a very low cost.

The next step is to attach the inside of the cat flap to the hole in your door. It may be necessary to seal the flap before you do this to ensure it is waterproof and weatherproof. The outside of your cat flap can be placed on the bolts on top, and then securing them. You must test the cat flap on your cat to make sure that it is working correctly and that it allows them to exit and enter easily.