Getting a cat flap fitted in to your home can be a huge step for any pet owner. There are many options available for you, whether your cat is getting older and requires extra security or you have kittens who need to be vetted.

It can be a bit daunting for non-professionals to install the cat flap, but with the proper guidelines, it's easy. Preparation, planning and precision are the most important factors.

Select the Right Door or Window

There are many different types of cat flaps, including some with locks that can be used to prevent your pet from getting out or in, while others have high tech features like microchip door entry system. It is important to consider how much to install a cat flap it is easy to train your cat to use the flap before you buy and install one.

It is best to place the cat flap, depending on the style of your home, in a window that opens into a sheltered garden area. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering and leaving your home. If possible this will also allow them a way back case they are pursued by a different cat flap install or by humans intent to harm them.

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

If you're installing the flap in the glass of a door it is recommended to seek out a glazier that is skilled in this type of work to avoid any costly errors. If you're fitting the flap to the door made of wood, start by introduction of your cat to it prior to fitting it to allow them to be familiar with its shape and size, and explore it from all angles.

Take a look at your cat's belly measurement

You'll need your cat's measurements to ensure that the cat flap you choose to install is the perfect fit. This will enable you to ensure that your cat flap is at the correct height on the door or window, and that it's big enough for him to get in and out easily.

To do this, place your pet on their back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Look for any fat pads that are squishy which may be visible around their lower back, face and legs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline Acrobatics.

You can also consider your pet's weight as a way to determine the size of an opening you'll need. If your cat weighs more than 5kg, for instance the suggested flap size is 14x12cm.

Make sure you measure your door or window

As the name suggests this kind of cat flap is designed to be affixed to a door and provides the pet with a way to go in or out at any time it wishes. The flaps are made of plastic or aluminum and are located in the middle of the door. They have a twoflap will come with. A simple aluminum or plastic swing-out door is an alternative and is usually the cheapest. It won't prevent other animals and cats from entering, and you could also be letting in draughts.

It's time to put in your cat flap. Mark the belly height of the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is straight on the door and not too low. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, you can use your saw to cut out the outline of the door. Once you are happy with the result finish sanding the edges and drill through the pencil markings to make holes for screws.

Make the Tools

Like all DIY jobs, it's always best to have the proper tools to complete the task. You'll need a cat flap, an eraser and tape measure along with a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the type of door or window.

If you're installing in a composite door, check with the manufacturer prior to making any alterations as this may cause the warranty to be invalidated or break the weathertight seal. In this scenario, you'll probably need to fit a new pane of toughened glass instead.

For wooden or uPVC doors will require cutting out the design of your cat flap using a Jigsaw. Follow the directions provided by the manufacturer. Use a template to mark out the size hole you'll need.

After you've made the hole, you will need to sand the edges of the opening. This will prevent the possibility of water damage and rust. It is also recommended to cover the holes in your door or window and the side of the flap to prevent wind and rain. Once the sealant has dried then you can put up your new cat-flap!

Install the Flap

The installation of a flap will allow your cat to move around whenever it pleases. Most people can put in the flap themselves. However when you plan to put it in glass or uPVC type door, you may require an expert.

Start by looking at the instructions provided with your cat flap to locate the template. This will give an idea of the location where holes need to be drilled to install the flap on the door. Mark the areas you will have to drill using pencil.

Once you have marked out the door's opening, use a jigsaw to cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task, but you will have to be comfortable using a jigsaw. Many companies will complete this task for you at a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to tackle it yourself.

The next step is to attach the interior part of the cat flap to the door's hole. It may be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this, in order to keep it waterproof and weatherproof. The outside of your cat flap can be placed on top of the bolts, and then tightened together. It is recommended that you test the flap using your cat flap installation near me to ensure that it functions properly and that they can get in and out of it.