Getting a cat flap fitted inside your home can be a huge step for any pet owner. There are numerous options for you, whether your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have kittens who need to be checked.

It can be difficult for non-professionals to install the cat flap, but with the proper instructions, it's simple. The most important thing is planning, preparation and accuracy.

Choose the Right Door or Windows

There are a variety of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to stop your pet from going out or inside, and others that have modern features such as microchips or a door entry system. But, it's important to think about how much to install a cat flap easy your cat is to teach to use the flap before you purchase and install one.

It is best to place the cat flap, based on the style of your house, in a window that opens into an area of the garden that is protected. This will help your cat feel secure when entering or leaving your home. If you can it will also provide them a way back should they be chased by a cat or by humans intent to harm them.

It is possible to install a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as easy as putting one in a wood door. It's because upvc door panel replacement cat flap or composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses. This could affect the how holes are cut and the type of door you can fix into.

If you're installing the flap on the glass of a door it is recommended to find a glazier who is experienced in this kind of work to avoid costly errors. If you're installing the flap into a wooden door, you should introduce your cat to it first to make sure it is familiar with its dimensions and shape.

Measure Your Cat's Belly

You'll need the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you choose to install is a perfect fit. This will ensure that the flap is the right height on your window or door and that it's big enough to allow them to get in and out easily.

To do this, place 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 or face, or around the limbs. The padding provides your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics that felines are known for.

You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you require. If your cat weighs up to 5kg, for instance, the suggested cat flap size is 14x12cm.

Measure your window or door

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 plastic or aluminium and simply sit in the centre of the door. They come with the possibility of a swinging door that opens by pressing lightly on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps that provide extra security, so your cat isn't able to enter the door from the outside.

A window is another common location for a cat flap and these are easy enough to put in, but they usually need to be located high enough as it's difficult for cats and dogs to reach them otherwise. If the window is too high for a double glazing cat flap flap then ramps, steps, or specially built stairs can be utilized to help the animal access it.

A cat flap can also be fitted into a brick wall, however this is not recommended unless familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it is important to ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. If there are, then there must be a hole made for them. This is something you should always seek professional advice on. It is also recommended to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust protection mask to prevent inhaling any sawdust generated by cutting holes in the walls of your house.

Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.

There are numerous cat flaps on the market, and they come with different features. Some come with security options like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that stop unauthorized entry and stop your pet allowing pets or friends into the home. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to keep out moisture and draughts.

There's also a range of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, whereas others are circular or square. 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 installing it to.

Also consider the mechanism to open your cat flap will have. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is an choice and is typically the least expensive. But, it will not stop other pets or cats from gaining access and you could be letting draughts in as well.

It's time to put in your cat flap. Begin by marking the height of the belly on the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is sitting straight against the door and not too low. Utilize your spirit level to draw a template for the cat flap. Next, use your Jigsaw to cut the outline of the door. When you're satisfied with the results sand down the edges and then drill through the pencil lines to create holes for the screws.

Prepare the Tools

It's important to have the right tools when performing any DIY project. The most essential things you'll need are the cat flap as well as a tape measure, a good pencil as well as a spirit level, a file, drill and a Jigsaw (depending on the windows or doors).

Consult the manufacturer before making any changes to a door made of composite. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal damaged. In this scenario it's likely that you will need to replace the glass with a brand new piece of toughened glass.

You'll need an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines given by the manufacturer. If you can, use an outline to help mark out the dimensions of the hole you need to cut.

After you've cut the required hole, you must sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop any rust or water damage from occurring in the future. It is also recommended to seal the holes in your door or window and the back of the flap to keep out rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry, you can install your cat flap!

Install the Flap

The installation of a flap will allow your cat to come and go whenever it wishes. This is a simple process that most people can complete by themselves, though you may need to hire an expert if you're installing the flap in an unglazed door or any other kind of uPVC door.

Begin by studying the instructions provided with your cat flap to locate the drawing template. This will give you an idea of where the holes for the flap will need to be made in the door. Mark the areas where you must drill using the pencil.

After you've marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw and cut out the the cat flap. This is a relatively easy task, but you will require a good understanding of a saw. Many companies will do this work for you at a reasonable cost if you are hesitant to tackle it yourself.

Then, screw the inner part of the door to the hole in your door. You may need to seal it prior to doing this to ensure that it remains weather-proof and water resistant. The outer part of your cat flap may be placed on the bolts on top, and then securing them. It is recommended that you test the flap using your cat to make sure that it works correctly and that they are able to enter and leave easily through it.