Getting a cat flap fitted in to your home can be a major step for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have a new kitten that require a thorough screening There are plenty of options there to choose from.

It can be intimidating for people who aren't experts in installing the 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 that are available 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. It is important to consider how easy it is for your cat to train to use the flap before you purchase and fit one.

Depending on the design of your home, it's usually best to situate the cat flap in the form of a door or window that opens onto a sheltered area of the garden so your cat will feel secure going into and out of the house. If you can it will also provide them a route back in should they be chased by another cat or by humans who are intent to hurt them.

It is possible to install the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it's not the same as fitting one on a wooden door. This is because uPVC and composite doors come in various thicknesses, which can affect the way holes are cut as well as the materials you're fixing them into.

If you're installing the flap inside the glass of a door, it's recommended that you find a glazier who is experienced in such work to avoid any costly errors. If you're fitting the flap on the door made of wood, start by the cat with it before you fit it to allow them to get used to its shape and size, and explore it from all angles.

Take a look at your cat's belly measurement

To install an appropriate cat flap that is a good fit for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat. This will ensure that the flap is the right height for your door or window and that it's large enough to allow them to enter and out easily.

To do this, put your pet on their back and run your fingers gently along their belly. Look for a fat pad that is squishy around the lower back, face or limbs. The extra padding offers your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics felines are known for.

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

Take a measurement of your door or window

This kind of cat flap, as its name suggests, is designed to be installed into a door. It allows your pet to be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. 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 opens by lightly pushing on either side. The flaps can be locked that offer added security, which means that your cat can't traverse the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also frequently employed in windows. They can be easily installed, but they need to be installed at a high level as cats and dogs have a difficult time to access them. If the window is not click here high enough to use a cat's flap, then you can use ramps, steps, or stairs that are specially designed to help the animal reach it.

It is possible to insert a cat flap into brick walls, however it is not recommended for people who aren't experienced in masonry. This could weaken the wall's structure. It is essential to ensure that there aren't any cables and pipes within the wall before you start. If there are, then an opening must be created for them and this is something read more that you should always seek expert advice on. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask will allow you to avoid breathing in the sawdust that is created when cutting into your walls.

Select the Right Cat Flap

There are a variety of cat flaps that are available on the market, and they come with different features. Some come with security options like magnetic locks or microchips that stop unauthorized entry and prevent your pet from allowing pets or friends into the house. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to keep out the elements of moisture and draughts.

There are also different sizes that are available based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, while others are circular or square. The type of cat flap you choose will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the kind of door or window you're check here installing it to.

Also here think about the mechanism to open your cat flap is likely to have. A simple aluminum or plastic swing-out door is an choice and is typically the cheapest. However, it will not prevent other cats or pets from entering and you may let draughts through too.

It's time to install your cat flap. Determine the belly height of the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is sitting straight against the door and not too low. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, you can use your jigsaw to cut out the outline of the door. When you are satisfied with the result finish sanding the edges and drill through the pencil lines to create holes for screws.

Make the Tools

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

If you're installing in a composite door, it is recommended to consult with the manufacturer prior to making any changes since this could invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this instance, it's likely that you'll have to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass.

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. Make use of a template to mark the size hole you'll require.

After you have cut the hole, you will have to sand the edges of the opening. This will stop any water damage or rust from happening in the near future. You should also seal the holes in your window or door and the back of the flap to block wind and rain. Once the sealant has dried it is time to install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to be able to move around as it pleases, fitting flaps can aid. Most people can install the flap by themselves. However when you plan to put it in the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you might need a professional.

Take a look at the instructions included with your cat flap. There is a drawing of the template. This will give you an idea of the location where holes need to be made for the flap on the door. Mark the areas you'll have to drill with pencil.

After you've marked the door's opening then use a jigsaw cut out the shape of the cat flap. It's a relatively easy job, but you'll need to be comfortable with a jigsaw. If you're worried about doing it yourself, there are plenty of companies that can check here do this for you at a very low cost.

Then, screw the inner part of the door to the hole in your door. It is possible to seal the flap before you do this, in order to keep it waterproof and weatherproof. Then, you can put the outer part of the cat flap on the top of the fixing bolts and then tighten the bolts all together. You must test the cat flap on your cat to ensure that it is working correctly and that it allows them to enter and exit easily.