Installing a cat flap your home is a great step 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.<br /><br />It can be difficult for those who aren't professionals to put in a cat flap, but with proper guidelines, it's easy. Planning, preparation and precision are the key to success.<br /><br />Choose the Right Door, or Window<br /><br />There are many different types of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to prevent your pet from going out or inside, and others that have modern features such as microchips or a door entry system. It is important to think about how it is easy to teach your cat to use the flap before you buy and install one.<br /><br />Depending on the style of your home It is recommended to situate the cat flap in an opening or window that opens onto an area of protection in the garden so your cat will feel secure entering and leaving the home. This will also allow them to get back inside if they're chased by other animals or human who wants to harm them.<br /><br />You can put an egress flap inside the case of a uPVC door or a glass window however it's not as easy as fitting one into a wooden door. It's because uPVC or composite doors are available in different thicknesses. This can impact the way holes are cut, and what you fix to.<br /><br />If you're installing the flap inside glass doors it is recommended to seek out a glazier that is skilled in such work to avoid costly errors. If you are fitting the flap to a wooden door it is recommended that you introduce your cat to it first so that it can become familiar with its size and shape.<br /><br />Find out the size of your cat's belly<br /><br />It is important to know the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you install is a good fit. This will help you make sure that the flap is placed at the correct height on the door or window, and that it's big enough for him to enter and out easily.<br /><br />To do this, put your pet on their back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Look for a fat pad that is squishy around the lower back, face or legs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline Acrobatics.<br /><br />You can also make use of your pet's weight to determine the size of the opening you require. If your cat weighs more than 5kg, for instance, the suggested cat flap opening size is 14 x 12cm.<br /><br />Make sure you measure your door or window<br /><br />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. The flaps are made of plastic or aluminum and sit in the middle of the door. They have a two-way swinging opening that is opened by gently pressing on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps that provide added security so your cat won't be able to simply walk through from the outside.<br /><br />Cat flaps are also frequently used in windows. They are easy to be installed, but they need to be set at a height where cats and dogs have a difficult time to get them. If the window is too high to be used as a cat flap, steps, ramps or purpose constructed stairs can be used to help the animal access it.<br /><br />A cat flap can also be fitted into a brick wall but this is not recommended unless experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the wall's structure. <a href="https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/lowestoft-cat-flap-installer-near-me/">window with cat flap www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk</a> is essential to ensure that there are no cables and pipes inside the wall before you begin. It is recommended to consult a professional if you need to create a hole for pipes or cables. Wearing protective glasses or a dust mask can allow you to avoid breathing in the sawdust that is created when cutting into your walls.<br /><br />Select the Right Cat Flap<br /><br />There are many cat flaps on the market, and they come with different features. Some come with security options like magnetic locks or microchip recognition to block entry by unauthorized persons and prevent your pet from allowing pets or friends into the home. Some have weatherproof seals and insulation to block out draughts and moisture.<br /><br />There's also a range of sizes, based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, while others are square or circular. The best type of cat flap will be dictated by the space you have available and the type of door or window you intend to install it on.<br /><br />Also consider the mechanism for opening your cat flap will come with. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. However, it will not keep other animals or cats from gaining access and you could be letting draughts in as well.<br /><br />After you've chosen the right cat flap and measured your windows or doors then it's time to install it. Mark the belly height of the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is exactly on the door and not too low. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, use a jigsaw to cut out the door's outline. Once you're happy with the result, sand the edges and drill through the pencil lines to create holes for the screws.<br /><br />Make the Tools<br /><br />As with any DIY jobs, it's always advisable to make sure you have the right tools for the job. The most essential things you'll need are the cat flap itself as well as a tape measure, a decent pencil, a spirit level, a file, drill and the Jigsaw (depending on your window or door type).<br /><br /><br /><br />If you're installing a composite door, you should check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes, because this could invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this scenario, it's likely that you will need to replace the glass with a brand new piece of toughened glass.<br /><br />You'll need to use the jigsaw to cut your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions that are provided by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to mark out the size hole you'll need.<br /><br />After you've cut the required hole, you'll need to sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will prevent any future water damage or rust. Finally, you should apply any necessary sealant to the rear of the cat flap, and to the holes in the door or window to block rain and wind. Once the sealant has dried it is time to install your new cat flap!<br /><br />Install the Flap<br /><br />If you want your cat to go and come at will, installing a flap can help. Most people can put in the flap on their own. However should you wish to install it on a glass or uPVC type door, you may require an expert.<br /><br />Start by looking at the instructions provided with your cat flap to locate the template drawing. This will give you an idea of where the holes for the flap need to be drilled in the door. Note the areas you'll need to drill in with pencil.<br /><br />After you have marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw to cut the shape for the cat flap. This is a relatively easy job, but you'll need to be comfortable using the saw. If you are worried about doing it yourself, there are a lot of companies that can do this for you at a minimal cost.<br /><br />Next, you will need to attach the inside of the cat flap to the hole in your door. You may have to apply sealant before doing this to ensure that it is weather and water resistant. The outer part of your cat flap can be placed on top of the bolts, and then tacked together. It is recommended to test the cat flap with your cat to ensure that it is working properly and that they can get in and out of it.<br /><br />