Installing a cat flap in to your home can be a big step for any pet owner. There are a variety of options for you, whether your cat is getting older and needs extra security or you have kittens that need to be examined.

Installing a cat flap could be daunting for non-professionals but, with the right instructions, it's not hard to do. Preparation, planning and precision are the most important factors.

Choose 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 going out or entering) and others that have high-tech features like microchip door entry systems. However, it's important to think about how easy your cat is to train to use the flap prior to making a buy and install one.

It's best to place the cat flap, based on the style of your home, inside the form of a window that opens to an area of the garden that is protected. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering or leaving your home. If you can it will also provide them a route back in case they are chased by a cat or by humans intent to hurt them.

You can put a cat flap in a uPVC door or a glass window, but it's not as straightforward as putting one in wooden doors. It's because uPVC or composite doors come in different thicknesses. This could affect the how holes are cut and the type of door you can fix to.

To avoid costly mistakes to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended that you consult an expert glazier prior to installing the flap on a door with a glass front. If you're installing the flap on the door made of wood, start by the cat with it before you fit it to allow them to be familiar with its shape and size and explore it from every angle.

Take a look at your cat's belly measurement

In order to install an appropriate cat flap that is suitable for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's height. This will enable you to make sure that the flap is installed at the right height for the window or door, and that it's big enough for him to enter and leave easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers along their belly. Feel for any fat pads that are squishy - these could be visible on their lower back, face, and the limbs. The padding gives your pet with 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 opening you require. If your cat is at or above 5kg in weight for instance that's a 14x12cm cat flap opening is recommended.

Measure your door or window

Like the name suggests this kind of 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. These flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door. They have a two-way swinging opening that can be opened by lightly pushing on either side. They are available in locking versions that provide additional security so that your cat is not able to walk through the door from outside.

A window is another popular location for a cat flap, and they're easy enough to fit, although they usually need to be set up high as it is difficult for cats and dogs to reach them otherwise. If the window is too high for a cat flap, ramps, steps, or specially built stairs can be utilized to assist the animal get access to it.

It is possible to insert the cat flap onto a brickwall, but it is not recommended for those who aren't experienced in masonry. This could cause the wall to weaken. It's important to check that there aren't any cables or pipes in the wall prior to you start. Always consult an expert if you have to cut a hole in the wall for pipes and cables. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask will help you avoid inhaling the sawdust that is created when cutting into your walls.

Choose the right cat flap

There are a variety of cat flaps on the market and they all have different features. Some have security options such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition to prevent unauthorized entry and also stop your pet allowing guests or other animals to enter the check here house. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to keep 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 square or circular. The best type of cat flap will be dictated by the space you have available and the kind of door or window you want to attach it to.

The last thing to do is consider the type of opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. But, it will not prevent other cats or pets from entering your home and you could be letting draughts in as well.

It's time to install your cat flap. Start by marking the height of the belly on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is straight against the door and not too low. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Next, check here use your jigsaw to cut out the door's outline. When you're happy with the results sand down the edges and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for screws.

Prepare the Tools

Like any DIY jobs, it's always advisable to make sure you have the proper tools for the job. You'll need a cat flap along with an eraser and tape measure as well as a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the type of window or door.

Check with the manufacturer prior to making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal damaged. In this case 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 design of your cat flap using a Jigsaw. Follow the directions that are provided by the manufacturer. Use a check here template to mark the size hole you need.

After you've made the hole, you'll have to sand the edges of the opening. This will prevent future rust and water damage. It is also recommended to seal the holes in your door or window and the back of the flap to block 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 go and come whenever it more info pleases. It's a simple procedure that most people can complete by themselves, though you'll likely require the help of an expert if you're installing the flap on a glass door or other type of uPVC door.

Begin by reading the instructions that come with the flap to locate the template drawing. This will provide you with an idea of where 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 door on your door, you can use the jigsaw to cut the design for the cat flap. It's a relatively easy task however, you'll need to be comfortable using the jigsaw. Many companies will complete this work for you at a reasonable cost if you are hesitant to do it yourself.

The next step is to attach the interior part click here of the cat flap to the hole in your door. You may need to seal it prior to doing this to ensure that it is weather and water resistant. Then, you can put the outer part of the cat flap on the top of the fixing bolts and then tighten them all. You should test the cat flap on your cat to ensure that it's working properly and that it allows them to exit and enter easily.