Getting a cat flap fitted inside your home can be a major step for any pet owner. If your cat is old and requires extra security, or you have new kittens that need to be vetted, there are plenty of options there for you.

Installing a double glazing cat flap flap may be daunting for non-professionals but with the right instructions, it's easy to do. Planning, preparation and precision are the keys.

Choose the Right Door or Window

There are many different types of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to prevent your pet from getting out or in, while others have advanced features like microchips for door entry systems. But, it's important to consider how easy it is for your cat to teach to use the flap before you purchase and install one.

Depending on the design of your house, it's usually best to place the cat flap in the form of a door or window that opens to an area of protection in the garden, so that your cat is secure when going into and out of the house. If possible this will also allow them a way back should they be chased by a cat or by humans who are intent to hurt them.

You can install a cat flap in a uPVC door or a glass window, but it's not as simple as putting one in wooden doors. This is because upvc door panel cat flap or composite doors are available in a variety of thicknesses. This can impact the how holes are cut and the material you put to.

To avoid costly mistakes to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended that you consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a glass cat flap installation Near me-fronted doors. If you are fitting the flap to an existing wooden door, you should introduce your cat first so that it can become familiar with its dimensions and shape.

Measure Your Cat's Belly

To install a cat flap that's a good fit for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat's height. This will help you make sure that the flap is placed at the right height on the door or window, and that it's big enough to allow him to enter and out easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back, face or limbs. The padding provides your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics that felines are known for.

Alternatively, you can also consider your pet's weight as a way to gauge how big an opening you need. If your cat weighs 5Kg, for example the suggested cat flap size is 14x12cm.

Measure your door or window

This type of cat flap, as its name suggests is designed to be affixed to a door. It allows your pet to move in and out at their convenience. These flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and are located in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that is opened by gently pressing on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps, which provide additional security to ensure that your cat can't simply walk through from the outside.

Cat flaps are also frequently used on windows. They can be easily installed, but they need to be placed at an elevated level since cats and dogs have a difficult time to access them. If the window isn't sufficient to accommodate a cat's flap, then you can use ramps, steps or specially designed stairs to help the animal reach it.

It is possible to install a cat flap into the brick wall, however it is not recommended for those who aren't experienced in brickwork. This could cause the wall to weaken. It is essential to ensure that there aren't any cables or pipes inside the wall before you start. Always consult a professional if you need to cut a hole in the wall for pipes and cables. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask will ensure that you don't breathe in the sawdust that is created when cutting through your walls.

Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.

There are many different cat flaps on the market and all of them offer various features. Some have security options such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition to stop unauthorized entry and restrict your pet from letting pets or friends into the house. Some have weatherproof seals and glass cat flap Installation near me insulation to block out the elements and keep out drafts.

There's also a variety of sizes, based on the size and breed of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, whereas others are circular or square. The type of cat flap you choose will depend on the size of the opening and the type of window or door you're installing it to.

Also consider the mechanism for opening your cat flap will come with. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. However, it will not stop other pets or cats from gaining access and you could let draughts in as well.

Once you have selected the correct cat flap and measured the windows or doors, it's time to fit it. Make a mark on the belly of the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure 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. Then, use a saw to cut out the outline of the door. When you are satisfied with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for screws.

Prepare the Tools

It's important to have the right tools for doing any DIY project. The main things you'll need are the cat flap along with a tape measure, an excellent pencil and a spirit level drill, file, and the jigsaw (depending on the windows or doors).

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

For wooden or replacement upvc door panels with cat flap doors you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap with the Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines given by the manufacturer. If you can, use a template to help you identify the size of hole you will need to cut.

After you've cut the required hole, you'll need to smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will help prevent the possibility of water damage and rust. It is also recommended to cover the holes in your window or door and the side of the flap to keep out wind and rain. Once the sealant has dried it is time to install your new cat-flap!

Install the Flap

The installation of a flap will allow your cat to come and go whenever it wishes. The majority of people can install the flap themselves. However should you wish to install it in glass or replacement upvc door panels with cat flap type door, you might need a professional.

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

Once you have marked out the door's opening 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 using a saw. Many companies will complete this work for you at a reasonable cost in case you're hesitant to tackle it yourself.

Next, you will need to screw the inner part of the cat flap to the door's hole. It may be necessary to seal the flap before you do this in order to ensure it is weatherproof and watertight. The outside of your cat flap can be placed on the bolts' tops and then securing them. It is recommended that you test the flap using your cat to make sure that it works correctly and that they are able to enter and leave easily through it.