Getting a cat flap fitted into your home could be a big step for any pet owner. If your cat is old and requires extra security, or you have kittens that require a thorough screening There are a lot of options there to choose from.

It can be intimidating for people who aren't experts in installing the cat flap, but with the right instructions it's easy. Planning, preparation and precision are the key to success.

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 getting out or in and glass cat flap installation near me others with modern features such as microchips or a door entry system. But, it's important to think about the ease of your cat to train to use the flap prior to making a buy and install one.

It is recommended to put the cat flap, depending on the style of your home, in a window that opens into an area of the garden that is protected. This will help your cat feel secure when entering and leaving your home. If possible it will also provide them a way back case they are chased by a cat or by humans intent to harm them.

You can put an egress flap inside a uPVC door or glass cat flap installation near me window, but it's not as straightforward as putting one in the door made of wood. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors come in different thicknesses, which can affect the way holes are cut and what you're fixing to.

To avoid costly errors It is recommended to consult a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass cat flap installation near Me-fronted door. If you are fitting the flap onto an existing wooden door, you should introduce your cat first so that it can become familiar with its size and shape.

Find out the size of your cat's belly

You'll need your cat's measurements to make sure that the cat flap you put in is a good fit. This will help you ensure that the flap is at the right height for your window or door and that it's wide enough to allow them to enter and out easily.

To do this, place your pet on their back and gently rub your fingers along their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back, face or legs. The padding provides your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the acrobatics cats are famous for.

Alternately, you could consider your pet's weight as a way to determine the size of the opening you need. If your cat weighs 5kg, for instance, the suggested cat flap opening size is 14x12cm.

Take a measurement of your door or window

Like the name suggests, this type of cat flap is designed to be fixed into the door, and offers the pet with a way to leave or enter whenever it wants. They are usually made of aluminum or plastic and sit in the centre of the door. They come with an open door that opens by pressing lightly on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps that offer added security so your cat won't be able to simply walk through from the outside.

Cat flaps are also frequently used in windows. They can be easily installed, however they have to be installed at a high level as cats and dogs have a difficult time to reach them. If the window isn't high enough to use a cat's flap, then you can opt for steps, ramps or specially designed stairs to help the animal reach it.

It is possible to insert an egress into brick walls, however it is not recommended for those who are not experienced in masonry. This could weaken the structure of the wall. It's important to check that there aren't any cables and pipes within the wall before you start. If they are, an opening must be made for them. This is something that you should always seek professional advice on. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask can ensure that you don't breathe in the sawdust created when cutting through your walls.

Select the Right Cat Flap

There are numerous cat flaps available on the market, and come with various features. Some cat flaps have security features like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry. They also prevent your pet from letting friends or animals to enter the home. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to block out the elements and keep out drafts.

There's also a range of sizes, based on the size and breed of your pet. cat flap bifold doors flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, whereas others are square or circular. The best type of cat flap is determined by the space you have available as well as the type of door or window you intend to install it on.

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

It's time to put in your cat flap. Make a mark on the belly of the door with your ruler. Use a spirit-level to ensure that the line is not too low and is in line with the door. Utilize your spirit level to draw a template of the flap for cats. Then, you can use your Jigsaw to cut the outline in the door. When you're satisfied with the results sand down the edges and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for the screws.

Make the Tools

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

Check with the manufacturer prior to making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal to be damaged. In this scenario you'll likely require a new pane of toughened glass instead.

For wooden or uPVC doors, you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap with the Jigsaw. Follow the directions given by the manufacturer. If possible, you can use a template to help you identify the size of the hole you'll have to cut.

After you have cut the hole, you will have to sand the edges of the opening. This will prevent the possibility of water damage and rust. Also, you should apply any sealant you require to the rear of the cat flap as well as to the holes in the door or window to block the elements of wind and rain. When the sealant has dried then you're now ready to put in your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to be able to go and come at will, installing flaps can aid. Most people can put in the flap on their own. However when you plan to install it in the form of a glass or replacement upvc door panel with cat flap type door, you may require an expert.

Begin by studying the instructions that come with your cat flap to find the drawing template. This will provide you with an idea of where the holes for the flap need to be drilled into the door. Note the areas you'll have to drill using pencil.

After you've marked the door's opening and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the design of the cat flap step flap. This is a fairly simple job, but you'll need to be comfortable using a saw. Many companies will complete this for you at a reasonable price if you are hesitant to take on the task yourself.

Then, you can screw the inside part of the door to the hole in your door. You may need to apply sealant prior to making this move to ensure it remains weather-proof and water resistant. The outer section of your cat flap may be placed on top of the bolts, and then tightened together. It is recommended that you test the flap with your cat to make sure that it works correctly and that they can get in and out of it.