Installing a cat flap your home is a great option for any pet owner. If your cat is old and needs extra security or you have a new kitten who require a vet check, there are plenty of options there for you.

Installing a cat flap installation cost near me flap may be a daunting task for novices, but, with the right instructions, it's easy to complete. The most important thing is planning, preparation and accuracy.

Choose the Right Door or Windows

There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, some with locks that can be used to keep your pet from going out or in and others with high tech features like microchip door entry systems. But, it's important to consider the ease of your cat to train to use the flap before you buy and install one.

Depending on the style of your home, it's generally best to put the cat flap near the form of a door or window that opens onto an area of protection in the garden, so that your cat will feel secure going into and out of the house. If you can it will also provide them a way back should they be chased by a cat or by humans who are intent on harming them.

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

To avoid costly errors, it is recommended that you consult an expert glazier prior to installing the flap on a door with a glass front. If you're fitting the flap to the door made of wood, start by introduction of your cat flap insulation to it before you fit it, so that they become familiar with its shape and size and explore it from every angle.

Measure Your Cat's Belly

You'll need your cat's measurements to ensure that the cat flap you install is a perfect fit. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is at the right height on your window or door and that it's large enough to allow them to get in and exit with ease.

Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back, face or limbs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline Acrobatics.

Alternatively, you can also consider your pet's weight as a way to gauge how big an opening you need. If your cat is at or over 5kg for instance an opening of 14 x 12cm flap for your cat is advised.

Make sure you measure your window or door

Like the name suggests, this type of cat flap is designed to be affixed to an opening and provide an opportunity for your pet to enter or leave whenever it wants. They are usually made of aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door. They have the possibility of a swinging door that opens by pressing lightly on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps, which provide additional security to ensure that your cat isn't able to walk through from the outside.

A window is another popular place to put a cat flap and these are easy enough to fit, although they are usually placed high up as it's difficult for cats and dogs to access them. If the window is too high to be used as a cat flap then steps, ramps or purpose constructed stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it.

A cat flap could also be fitted to a brick wall, but this is not recommended unless you are familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's important to make sure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. If there are, then a hole needs to be created for them and this is something that you should always seek expert advice on. Wearing protective glasses or a dust mask can ensure that you don't breathe in the sawdust that is created when you cut into your walls.

Select the Right Cat Flap

There are numerous cat flaps available and they all have different features. Some are equipped with security features like magnetic locks or microchip recognition to block entry by unauthorized persons and stop your pet allowing guests or other animals to enter the home. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to keep out draughts and moisture.

There is also a choice of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are available in rectangular shapes, whereas others are circular or square. The best type of cat flap will be dictated by the space you have available and the kind of door or window you want to attach it to.

Finally think about the mechanism for opening your cat flap will have. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It won't stop other cats and pets from entering, and you could also be letting in draughts.

It's time to put in your cat flap. Start by marking the belly's height on the door with your ruler. Make use of a spirit-level to ensure that the line isn't too low and is straight on the door. Create a template for the shape of the cat flap Step flap using your spirit level as a guide. Next, use your jigsaw to cut out the outline of the door. When you're happy with the result, sand the edges and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for the screws.

Make sure you have the tools ready

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

If you're installing a composite door, it is recommended to consult with the manufacturer before making any changes since this could affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this instance it's likely that you will need to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.

You'll need an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions given by the manufacturer. Make use of a template to mark the size hole you'll need.

After you've made the hole, you must sand down the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will prevent the possibility of water damage and rust. Finally, you should apply any sealant that is needed to the rear of the cat flap and to the holes in the window or door to block the elements of wind and rain. After the sealant has dried, you can install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

Installing a flap allows your cat to move around whenever it wishes. This is a simple process that most people can do by themselves, though you will likely require the help of a professional if you are installing the flap in a glass door or other type of uPVC door.

Check out the directions that came with the cat flap. There is a template drawing. This will give you an idea of where holes for the flap have to be made in the door. Note the areas you'll need to drill in with a pencil.

After you've marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw and cut out the shape for the cat flap. It's a relatively easy job however you'll need be comfortable with the Jigsaw. Numerous companies will perform this work for you at a reasonable cost If you're not sure how to do it yourself.

Then, attach the outer part to the hole of your door. It is possible to seal the flap prior to you do this in order to ensure it is weatherproof and watertight. Then, you can put the outer section of the flap on 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 allows them to enter and exit easily.