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Installing a cat flap your home is a fantastic option for any pet owner. If your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have a new kitten that require a thorough screening there are a lot of options there to choose from. Installing a cat flap may be intimidating for people who aren't professionals, but with the right instructions, it's not hard to accomplish. Planning, preparation and precision are the key to success. Choose the Right Door or Windows There are a myriad of kinds 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 systems. However, it's important to think about the ease of your cat to train to use the flap before you purchase and fit one. Depending on the style of your home, it's usually best to place the cat flap in an opening or window that opens out into an area of protection in the garden, so that your cat is secure when entering and leaving the home. This will also allow them to return inside if they are chased by other animals or human beings who wish to harm them. It's possible to put the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't the same as fitting one on a wooden door. It's because uPVC or composite doors are available in various thicknesses. cat flap installation cost could affect the way holes are cut, and what you fix to. If you're installing the flap in the glass of a door it is recommended that you find a glazier who is experienced in this type of work to avoid costly errors. If you're installing the flap in a wooden door, start by introduction of your cat to it before you fit it so that they can be familiar with its shape and size and explore it from all angles. Take a look at your cat's belly measurement To install a cat flap that's suitable for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat's size. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is at the right height on your door or window and that it's wide enough for them to enter and exit easily. To do this, put your pet on their back and run your fingers gently across their belly. Look for any squishy fat pads which might be visible around their lower back, face or limbs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline circus skills. You can also take into account the weight of your pet to determine the size of opening you require. If your cat weighs 5Kg, for example, the suggested cat flap opening size is 14x12cm. Take a measurement of your windows or doors This kind of cat flap, as the name suggests, is designed to be affixed to a door. It allows your pet to move in and out at their convenience. These flaps are constructed of aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that is opened by lightly pushing on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps, which provide extra security, so your cat isn't able to enter the door from the outside. A window is another popular location for a cat flap, and they're easy enough to put in, but they usually need to be set up high as it is difficult for cats and dogs to reach them otherwise. If the window is not sufficient in height to be used as the flap for cats, you can use ramps, steps or stairs that are specially designed to help the animal reach it. It is possible to install the cat flap onto the brick wall, however it is not recommended for people who are not experienced in masonry. This could cause the wall to weaken. It is important to make sure there aren't any cables or pipes within the wall before you start. If there are, there must be a hole made for them. This is something you should always seek professional advice on. It is also recommended to wear safety goggles and a dust protection mask to avoid inhaling any sawdust that is created by cutting through your home's walls. Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you. There are numerous cat flaps available and all of them offer different features. Some flaps are equipped with security features like microchip recognition or magnetic locks that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also prevent your pet from allowing friends or other animals into the home. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to keep out draughts and moisture. There are also different sizes to choose from based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are square or circular. The kind of cat flap you select will depend on the size of the opening and the type of window or door you're fixing it to. Last but not least, consider the type of opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. It won't prevent other pets and cats from entering however, and you could let in draughts. Once you have selected the appropriate cat flap and measured the window or door, it's time to fit it. Make a mark on the belly of the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is straight against the door and not too low. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, using a Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. Once you're happy 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 undertaking any DIY project. You'll require the cat flap, an eraser and tape measure along with a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the kind of window or door. Check with the manufacturer prior to making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to become broken. In this scenario it's likely that you'll have to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass. You'll need to use a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. If possible, you can use an example to determine the size of hole you'll will need to cut. After you've made the 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. Finally, you should apply any sealant you require to the rear of the cat flap and to the holes in the window or door to block the elements of wind and rain. Once the sealant has dried, you can install your new cat-flap! Install the Flap Fitting a flap will allow your cat to go and come whenever it wants. This is a straightforward process that most people can accomplish by themselves, though you'll likely require the help of a professional if you are installing the flap in an unglazed door or any other kind of uPVC door. Begin by studying the instructions included with the flap to locate the template. This will give an idea of the location where the holes will be drilled for the flap to be placed in the door. Mark the areas that you'll must drill using pencil. Once you have marked out the area in your door and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a relatively simple job however, you'll need to be comfortable with the saw. If you are worried about doing this yourself, there are a lot of companies that can do this for you at a very low cost. The next step is to attach the inside of the flap onto the hole in your door. It might be necessary to seal the flap before you do this in order to keep it weatherproof and watertight. You can then put the outer part of the flap on the top of the fixing bolts, and tighten them all. You should test the flap on your cat to confirm that it is working correctly and that it allows them to enter and exit easily.