Installing a cat flap in your home is a great option for any pet owner. If your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have a new kitten who require a vet check there are a lot of options there to choose from.<br /><br />It can be intimidating for people who aren't experts in installing an animal flap, but with proper instructions, it's simple. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and precision.<br /><br />Choose the Right Door or Windows<br /><br />There's a wide selection of cat flaps to choose from, some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from leaving or coming in) and others with high-tech features such as microchips for door entry systems. However, it's important to think about how easy your cat is to train to use the flap before you purchase and install one.<br /><br />It's best to place the cat flap, depending on the design of your home, in the form of a window that opens to an area of the garden that is protected. This will allow your cat to feel safe when entering or leaving your home. If you can this will also allow them a way back case they are pursued by a different cat or by humans intent on harming them.<br /><br />It's possible to put a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it's not as easy as putting one on a wooden door. This is because uPVC or composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses. This can affect the how holes are cut and the type of door you can fix into.<br /><br />To avoid costly mistakes It is recommended that you consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If you're fitting the flap in a wooden door, start by the cat with it before you fit it so that they can become familiar with its size and shape and explore it from all angles.<br /><br />Find out the size of your cat's belly<br /><br />In order to install an appropriate cat flap that is the right size for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat's size. This will enable you to make sure that the flap is at the correct height on the door or window and that it's big enough for him to enter and leave easily.<br /><br />To do this, lay your pet on their back and run your fingers gently along their belly. Check for any squishy fat pads - these may be visible around their lower back, face and legs. The extra padding offers your pet safety and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics that felines are known for.<br /><br />Alternately, you could use your pet's weight to gauge how big an opening you need. If your cat is up to 5Kg in weight, for example that's a 14x12cm cat flap opening is recommended.<br /><br />Measure Your Door or Window<br /><br />As the name suggests, this type of cat flap is designed to be affixed to a door and provides an opportunity for your pet to go in or out as it pleases. These flaps are constructed of aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that can be opened by gently pushing on either side. There are locks on some of these flaps that offer added security so your cat won't be able to simply walk through from the outside.<br /><br />Cat flaps are also often used in windows. They are easy to be installed, however they have to be installed at an elevated level since cats and dogs find it difficult to reach them. If the window is too high to be used as a cat flap then steps, ramps or purpose built stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it.<br /><br />A cat flap can be installed to a brick wall, but it is not recommended unless you are familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the wall's structure. It is important to make sure there aren't any cables or pipes in the wall prior to you begin. It is recommended to consult an expert if you have to create a hole for pipes and cables. It is also recommended to wear safety goggles and a dust-proof mask to prevent inhaling any sawdust that is created by cutting into your home's walls.<br /><br />Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.<br /><br />There are a variety of cat flaps available and they all have various features. Certain cat flaps come with security features, such as magnetic locks or microchips that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also prevent your pet from letting friends or another animal into the home. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to block out draughts and moisture.<br /><br /><br /><br />There's also a variety of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, while others are square or circular. The type of cat flap you select will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the type of window or door you're fitting it to.<br /><br />Last but not least, take into consideration the kind of opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is one choice and is typically the cheapest. However, it will not prevent other cats or pets from gaining access and you could let draughts through too.<br /><br />It's time to put in your cat flap. Start by marking the belly's height on the door using your 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 reference. Then, using your saw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you are satisfied with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.<br /><br />Prepare the Tools<br /><br />It's essential to have the right tools available when undertaking any DIY project. You'll need a cat flap as well as a pencil and tape measure, a spirit-level, a drill and a jigsaw depending on the type of window or door.<br /><br />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 it's likely that you'll need to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.<br /><br />You'll require an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. Use <a href="https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/ramsgate-cat-flap-installer-near-me/">upvc door panel cat flap</a> to determine the size of hole you'll require.<br /><br />After you have cut the hole, you'll have to sand the edges of the opening. This should prevent any rust or water damage from happening in the future. It is also recommended to seal the holes in your window or door and the back of the cat flap to keep out rain and wind. After the sealant has dried then you can put up your cat flap!<br /><br />Install the Flap<br /><br />If you want your cat to be able to move around at will, installing flaps can be helpful. It's a simple procedure that most people can accomplish themselves, although you may require the help of a professional if you are installing the flap in a glass door or other kind of uPVC door.<br /><br />Take a look at the instructions that came with the cat flap. There is a drawing of the template. This will give you an idea of where holes for the flap have to be drilled in the door. Mark the areas where you have to drill using pencil.<br /><br />After you've marked the door's opening and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a relatively easy task, but you will need to be comfortable using the saw. Many companies will do this work for you at a reasonable price if you are hesitant to take on the task yourself.<br /><br />Next, you will need to attach the interior part of the flap onto the door's hole. It may be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this in order to ensure it is weatherproof and watertight. The outside of your cat flap may be placed on top of the bolts, and then tacked together. It is recommended to test the cat flap with your cat to make sure that it is working properly and that they are able to get in and out of it.<br /><br />