Getting a cat flap fitted inside your home can be a major step for any pet owner. There are a variety of options to you, regardless of whether your cat is old and requires extra security or if you have kittens who need to be vetted.

Installing a cat flap may be daunting for non-professionals but with the right instructions, it's not hard to complete. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and accuracy.

Select the Right Door, or Windows

There's a wide selection of cat flaps to choose from including some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from leaving or entering) and others with high-tech features such as microchip door entry systems. However, it's important to consider how easy your cat is to train to use the flap prior to making a purchase and install one.

Based on the style of your house, it's usually best to put the cat flap near the form of a door or window that opens to an area of protection in the garden so that your cat can feel safe when entering and leaving the home. This will also allow them to go back inside in the event of being chased by another animal or human beings who wish to harm them.

You can put an egress flap inside the form of a uPVC door or a glass window however, it's not as easy as putting one in a wooden door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors come in various thicknesses, which affect the way holes are cut and the materials you're fixing them to.

If you're installing the flap inside a glass door it is recommended that you seek out a glazier that is skilled in this type of work to avoid any costly errors. If you're fitting the flap to the door made of wood it is recommended that you introduce your cat to it first to ensure that it becomes familiar with its dimensions and shape.

Take a look at your cat's belly measurement

You'll need your cat's measurements to ensure that the cat flap you put in is the perfect fit. This will ensure that the flap is the right height for your door or window, and that it's big enough for them to enter and exit with ease.

To do this, place your pet on their back and run your fingers gently along their belly. Check for any fat pads that are squishy - these might be visible around their lower back, face or limbs. The extra padding offers your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the acrobatics cats are known for.

You can also take into account the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you require. If your cat weighs more than 5kg, for instance, the suggested cat flap size is 14 x 12cm.

Measure your window or door

The name implies the cat flap is made to be attached to a door and provides an opportunity for your pet to leave or enter at any time it wishes. They are usually made of plastic or aluminium and simply sit in the centre of the door. They have an open door that opens by pushing lightly on either side. These flaps are available in locking versions that provide additional security so that your cat is not able to walk through the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also frequently used on windows. They can be easily installed, but they have to be placed at a height where cats and dogs find it difficult to reach them. If the window is too high to use a cat flap, then ramps, steps, or specially built stairs can be utilized to assist the animal get access to it.

It is possible to install the cat flap onto a brickwall, but it is not recommended for people who aren't familiar with the masonry industry. This could weaken the wall's structure. It's important to check that there aren't any cables or pipes within the wall before you start. You should always consult a professional if you need to make a hole for cables and pipes. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask can ensure that you don't breathe in the dust that is generated when cutting into your walls.

Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.

There are a variety of cat flaps on the market and they all have various features. Some come with security options like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry and also stop your pet allowing pets or friends into the home. Some have weatherproof seals and insulation to keep out draughts and moisture.

There is also a choice of sizes, based on the size website and breed of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, while others are circular or square. Selecting the best cat flap will be determined by the space available and the type of here door or window you are fitting it to.

The last thing to do is take into consideration the kind of opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. read more However, it won't stop other pets or cats from entering your home and you could let draughts through too.

It's time to install your cat flap. Mark the belly height of more info the door using your ruler. Make use of a spirit-level to ensure that the line isn't too low and is in line with the door. Utilize your spirit level to draw a template of the flap for cats. Next, use your saw to cut out the outline in the door. When you're satisfied with the result, sand the edges and then drill through the pencil marks to create holes for the screws.

Make sure you have the tools ready

It is essential to have the right tools for performing any DIY project. The main things you'll need are the cat flap itself, a tape measure and an excellent pencil and a spirit level drill, file, and the Jigsaw (depending on the window or door type).

If you're installing a composite door, it is recommended to consult with the manufacturer before making any changes, as this may invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this case, you'll probably have to install an additional pane of toughened glass instead.

For wooden or uPVC doors will require cutting out the design of your cat flap using a Jigsaw. Follow the directions given by the manufacturer. If you can, use a template to help you determine the size of the hole you will need to cut.

After you've made the hole, you'll need to sand the edges of the opening. This will stop the possibility of water damage and rust. It is also recommended to cover the holes in your window or door and the back of the cat flap to block wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry, you're ready to install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to come and go at will, installing flaps can aid. It's a simple procedure that most people can complete themselves, although you will likely require the assistance of a professional if you are installing the flap on a glass door or other type of uPVC door.

Check out the directions that came with the cat flap. You will find an illustration of the template. This will here give you an idea of where holes need to be drilled for the flap to be placed in the door. Then, mark the areas where you need to drill with the pencil.

Once you have marked out the area in your door then use a jigsaw cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a relatively easy job, but you'll need to be comfortable using a Jigsaw. If you are concerned about doing this yourself, there are many companies that can complete this for you at a very low cost.

Next, you will need to attach the inside of the cat flap to the hole in your door. It might be necessary to seal the flap before you do this in order to ensure it is waterproof and weatherproof. The outer section of your cat flap can be placed on the bolts' tops and then tacked together. You should test the flap on your cat to make sure that it's working properly and allows the cat to go in and out easily.