Getting a cat flap fitted inside your home can be a major step for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and requires extra security, or you have new kittens that require a thorough screening, there are plenty of options out there to choose from.

Installing a cat flap may be a daunting task for novices, however, with the proper instructions, it's easy to complete. The key is preparation, planning and precision.

Select the Right Door or Windows

There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, some with locks that can be used to prevent your pet from leaving or in, while others have modern features such as microchips or a door entry system. It is important to consider how it is easy to teach your cat how to use the flap before you purchase and install one.

Based on the style of your home, it's generally best to situate the cat flap inside a window or door that opens onto an area of protection in the garden so that your cat is secure when leaving and entering the home. If you can it will also provide them a way back should they be chased by another cat or by humans who are intent to harm them.

It's possible to put a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it's not the same as fitting one in a wood door. It's because uPVC or composite doors are available in a variety of thicknesses. This can affect the method of cutting holes, and the material you put to.

If you're installing the flap on a glass door it is recommended to seek out a glazier that is skilled in this kind of work to avoid costly errors. If you're installing the flap to the door made of wood it is recommended that you introduce your cat flap cost to it first to ensure that it becomes familiar with its size and shape.

Take a look at your cat's belly measurement

To install an appropriate cat flap that is the right size for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's height. This will help you ensure that the flap is the correct height on your door or window and that it's big enough for cat flap in Upvc Door cost them to enter and exit easily.

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

You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you require. If your cat is at or above 5kg in weight, for example, a 14 x 12cm cat flap opening is recommended.

Make sure you measure your door or window

This kind of cat flap, as the 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. They are usually made from aluminum or plastic and rest in the middle of the door. They have a two-way swinging door that is opened by pushing lightly on either side. These flaps are available with locking options that provide additional security so your cat canons of the opening as well as the kind of door or window you're fitting cat flap in upvc door panel it to.

The last thing to do is consider the type of opening mechanism your cat flap will use. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. However, it will not keep other animals or cats from entering your home and you could let draughts through too.

Once you have selected the correct cat flap and measured the window or door then it's time to install it. Begin by marking the belly's height on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is straight on the door and not too low. Use your spirit level to draw a template for the cat flap. Then, you can use your saw to cut out the outline of the door. Once you're happy with the result, sand the edges and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.

Prepare the Tools

It's important to have the right tools available when doing any DIY project. The most essential things you'll need are the cat flap itself as well as a tape measure, a good pencil as well as a spirit level, drill, file and the jigsaw (depending on the window or door type).

If you're installing a composite door, you should check with the manufacturer prior to making any alterations because this could cause the warranty to be invalidated or break the weathertight seal. In this scenario it's likely you'll have to replace the glass with a brand new piece of toughened glass.

You'll need to use an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap in upvc door cost flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to mark the size hole you need.

After you've made the hole, you'll need to smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. 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 keep out wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry and dry, you can install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to move around as it pleases, fitting flaps can be helpful. This is a straightforward process that most people can do by themselves, though you will likely require the assistance of an expert for installing the flap in a glass door or other type of uPVC door.

Take a look at the instructions included with your cat flap. There is a template drawing. This will give you an idea of where the holes will be drilled for the flap to be placed in the door. Then, mark the places that you'll need to drill with the pencil.

After you have marked the door on your door, you can use the jigsaw to cut the design for the cat flap. It is a relatively simple task, but you'll need to be comfortable using the saw. If you are worried about doing this yourself, there are many businesses that can handle this for you at a minimal cost.

The next step is to attach the inside of the cat flap to the hole in your door. It is possible to seal the flap prior to you do this, in order to keep it weatherproof and watertight. You can then put the outer part of the cat flap on the top of the fixing bolts and then tighten the bolts all together. You should test the flap on your cat to confirm that it functions properly and that it allows them to exit and enter easily.