Installing a cat flap in your home is an excellent option for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and requires extra security, or you have new kittens who require a vet check there are plenty of options there for you.

It can be difficult for non-professionals to install the cat flap, but with right instructions it's easy. The key is preparation, planning and accuracy.

Select the Right Door, or Windows

There are a wide variety of cat flaps that are available that come with locks (which can be used to stop your pet going out or entering) and others with advanced features such as microchip door entry systems. It is important to think about how easy it will be to teach your cat to use the flap, before you purchase and install one.

Based on the style 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 will feel secure going into and out of the house. This will also enable them to go back inside if they are pursued by a pet or humans who want to harm them.

It is possible to install the cat flap on the form of a uPVC door or glass window, but it's not as easy as putting one in the door made of wood. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in a variety of thicknesses. This could affect the method of cutting holes, and the material you put to.

If you're installing the flap in glass doors it is recommended to find a glazier who is experienced in such work to avoid costly errors. If you're installing the flap into an existing wooden door, you should introduce your cat to it first so that it can become familiar with its dimensions and shape.

Find out the size of your cat's belly

In order to install a cat flap that's the right size for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat's size. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is at the right height on your door or window and that it's big enough to allow them to enter and exit easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers over their belly. Look for any fat pads that are squishy that may be visible around their lower back, face, and limbs. The padding gives your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics that felines are famous for.

Alternately, you could make use of your pet's weight to gauge how big an opening you need. If your cat weighs more than 5kg, for instance the suggested flap opening size is 14x12cm.

Make sure you measure your door or window

This kind of cat flap, as the name suggests is designed to be affixed to a door. It allows your pet to be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. The flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and sit in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that is opened by gently pressing on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps, which provide extra security, so your cat won't be able to simply walk through from the outside.

A window is another common location for a cat flap and these are easy enough to fit, although they usually need to be located high enough as it's difficult for dogs and cats to access them. If the window is not high enough to use a cat's flap, then you can opt for ramps, steps or specially designed stairs to help the animal reach it.

Cat flaps can also be fitted into a brick wall, however this is not recommended unless you are experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it's important to make sure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. It is recommended to consult a professional if you need to make a hole for cables and pipes. Wearing protective glasses or a dust mask will help you avoid inhaling the sawdust created when you cut into your walls.

Choose the right cat flap

There are many cat flaps available on the market, and have different features. Some cat flaps have security features, such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry. They also more info stop your pet from letting friends or animals to enter the home. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to block draughts and moisture.

There's also a range of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular while others are circular or square. The best type of cat flap is determined by the space available as well as the type of window or door you intend to install it on.

Also consider the opening mechanism that your cat flap is likely to have. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is one choice and is typically the least expensive. It won't prevent other cats and pets from entering the room, and you could be letting in draughts.

It's time to install your cat flap. Begin by marking the belly height on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is sitting exactly on the door and not too low. Create a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, you can use your saw to cut out the outline in the door. When you are satisfied with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil markings to make holes for screws.

Prepare the Tools

It is essential to have the right tools available when doing any DIY project. You'll require the cat flap, tape measure and pencil along with a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the type of window or door.

If you're installing a composite door, you should check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes, as this may affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this case you'll require a new pane of toughened glass instead.

You'll require an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines provided by the manufacture. Make use of a template to mark the size hole you need.

After you've cut the hole, you will have to sand the edges of the opening. This should prevent any water damage or rust from occurring in the future. Finally, you should apply any sealant that is needed to the rear of the cat flap as well as to the holes in the door or window to keep out the click here elements of wind and rain. After the sealant has dried, you're ready to install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

The installation of a flap will allow your cat to move around whenever it wants. Most people can install the flap by themselves. However should you wish to install it on a glass or uPVC type door, you may require a professional.

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

Once you have marked out the door's opening and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the design of the cat website flap. This is a relatively easy task, but you will require a good understanding of a Jigsaw. Many companies will do this task for you for a reasonable price if you are hesitant to do it yourself.

Next, you will need to attach the interior part of the flap onto the hole in your door. You may have to apply sealant before doing this to ensure it is weather and water resistant. The outer part here of your cat flap may be placed on the bolts' tops and then tightened together. You must test the cat flap on your cat to ensure that it's check here working properly and that it allows them to exit and enter easily.