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Installing a cat flap in to your home can be a major step for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have kittens who require a vet check there are a lot of options there to choose from. Installing a cat flap may be a daunting task for novices, but with the right instructions, it's not hard to complete. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the key to success. Choose the Right Door or Windows There's a wide selection of cat flaps to choose from including some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet going out or coming in) and others that have high-tech features like microchip door entry systems. It is important to think about how it is easy to train your cat to use the flap before you purchase and install one. It's best to place the cat flap, based on the design of your home, in the form of a window that opens to a garden that is sheltered. This will help your cat feel secure when entering or leaving your home. This will also allow them to return inside if they're pursued by a pet or human who wants to hurt them. It's possible to install the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as easy as putting one on 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. If you're installing the flap in glass doors it is recommended that you find a glazier who is experienced in this type of work to avoid costly errors. If you're fitting the flap on a wooden door, start by introducing your cat to it prior to fitting it so that they can get used to its shape and size and explore it from every angle. Measure Your Cat's Belly In order to put in an appropriate cat flap that is a good fit for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat's height. This will enable you to ensure that the cat flap is installed at the correct height on the door or window, and also that it's large enough for him to enter and out easily. Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Look for any squishy fat pads that could be visible on their lower back, face, and legs. The padding gives your pet safety and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics that felines are known for. Alternately, you could make use of your pet's weight to determine the size of the opening you need. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg, for example the suggested flap size is 14x12cm. Make sure you measure your door or window Like the name suggests, this type of cat flap is made to be attached to a door and provides the pet with a way to enter or leave at any time it wishes. These flaps are constructed of plastic or aluminum and are located in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that opens by gently pressing on either side. There are locks on some of these flaps that provide additional security to ensure that your cat won't be able to simply traverse through the door from outside. A window is another popular location for a cat's flap, and they are simple enough to put in, but they often need to be placed high up as it's difficult for dogs and cats to access them. If the window isn't high enough to use a cat's flap, you can make use of ramps, steps or stairs that are specially designed to help the animal reach it. It is possible to put a cat flap into a brickwall, but it is not recommended for those who are not experienced in brickwork. This could cause the wall to weaken. Before you begin, it is important to ensure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. It is recommended to consult an expert if you have to create a hole for pipes and cables. It's also advisable to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust protection mask to avoid breathing in any sawdust that is created by cutting through your home's walls. Choose the right cat flap There are numerous cat flaps available and each one comes with different features. Some cat flaps have security features such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry. They also keep your pet from letting friends or another animal into the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to keep out water and drafts. There are different sizes available depending on the breed and size of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular, while others are square or circular. The type of cat flap you choose will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the type of window or door you're fixing it to. The last thing to do is think about the opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. However, it will not keep other animals or cats from entering your home and you could let draughts in too. It's time to install your cat flap. Make a mark on the belly of the door using a ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure the line is not too low and is straight on the door. Use your spirit level to draw a template of the flap for cats. Then, use a Jigsaw to cut the outline of the door. When you are satisfied with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil markings to make holes for screws. Make the Tools Like all DIY jobs, it's always advisable to make sure you have the proper tools to complete the task. The main things you'll need are the cat flap itself along with a tape measure, a decent pencil and a spirit level drill, file, and a jigsaw (depending on the windows or doors). If you're installing a composite door, it is recommended to check with the manufacturer prior to making any alterations since this could invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this instance you'll likely require a new pane of toughened glass instead. For wooden or uPVC doors will require cutting out the design of your cat flap with the Jigsaw. Follow the directions that are provided by the manufacturer. Use a template to determine the size of hole you require. After you've made the hole, you'll need to smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will prevent any water damage or rust from occurring in the future. You should also seal the holes in your window or door and the back of the flap to block wind and rain. After the sealant has dried it is time to install your new cat flap! Install the Flap Installing a flap allows your cat to go and come whenever it wishes. Most people can put in the flap on their own. However, if you want to install it on the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you might need an expert. Look at the instructions included with the cat flap. There is a template drawing. This will give you an idea of where holes for the flap will need to be drilled into the door. Then, mark the areas where you have to drill using pencil. After you have marked the door on your door, use the jigsaw and cut out the the cat flap. This is a relatively easy task, but you'll require a good understanding of a Jigsaw. If you are concerned about doing it yourself, there are a lot of businesses that can handle this for you at a low cost. The next step is to attach the inside of the cat flap to the hole in your door. It is possible to seal it prior to doing this to ensure that it is weather and water resistant. cat flap installer near me can then put the outer section of the flap on top of the fixing bolts and tighten them all. You must test the cat flap on your cat to ensure that it is working correctly and allows the cat to go in and out easily.