Fitting a Cat Flap Installing a cat flap inside your home can be a huge step for any pet owner. There are a variety of options to you, regardless of whether your cat is getting older and needs extra security, or you have kittens that need to be checked.    It can be difficult for those who aren't professionals to put in a cat flap, but with right instructions it's easy. The key is preparation, planning and precision.    Choose the Right Door, or Window    There are a variety of cat flaps that are available including some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from leaving or entering) and others with high-tech features such as microchips for door entry systems. It is important to consider how it is easy to teach your cat to use the flap, before you buy and install one.    Based on the style of your house, it's generally best to situate the cat flap inside a window or door that opens onto an area that is protected from the garden, so that your cat can feel safe when leaving and entering the home. If you can it will also provide them a way back case they are chased by a cat or by humans who are intent to hurt them.    It is possible to install a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as easy as putting one into a wood door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors are available in different thicknesses, which affect how holes are cut and the material you're fixing it to.    To avoid costly errors, it is recommended that you consult an expert glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If you're fitting the flap to the door made of wood, start by the cat with 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 install an appropriate cat flap that is the right size for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's height. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is at the right height for your door or window, and that it's large enough to allow them to enter and exit easily.    To do this, place 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 extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline acrobatics.    You can also use the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you require. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg in weight, for example an opening of 14 x 12cm cat flap opening is recommended.    Take a measurement of your door or window    As the name suggests the cat flap is designed to be affixed to an opening and provide a way for your pet to go in or out whenever it wants. They are usually made of aluminum or plastic and sit in the centre of the door. They come with a two-way swinging door that opens by pressing lightly on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps that offer added security so your cat isn't able to walk through from the outside.    A window is another common place to put a cat flap and these are easy enough to put in, but they are usually placed high up as it's difficult for cats and dogs to reach them otherwise. If the window isn't sufficient in height to be used as the flap for cats, you can use ramps, steps or specially designed stairs to assist the animal in reaching it.    A cat flap could also be fitted to a brick wall, but this is not recommended unless experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it is important to make sure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. You should always consult a professional if you need to cut a hole in the wall for pipes and cables. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask can allow you to avoid breathing in the sawdust created when cutting through your walls.    Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.    There are numerous cat flaps that are available on the market, and come with various features. Certain cat flaps come with security features such as microchip recognition or magnetic locks that prevent unauthorized entry. They also stop your pet from allowing friends or animals to enter the home. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to keep out draughts and moisture.    There's also a variety of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, while others are circular or square. Choosing the right type of cat flap will be dictated by the space available as well as the type of door or window you want to attach it to.    The last thing to do is take into consideration the kind of opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. However, it won't keep other animals or cats from gaining access and you could let draughts through too.    Once you've selected the correct cat flap and measured the door or window then it's time to install it. Begin by marking the belly's height on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is sitting straight on the door and not too low. Utilize your spirit level to draw a sketch of the cat flap. Then, using the Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. Once 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 best to have the proper tools to complete the task. You'll require the cat flap as well as tape measure and pencil as well as a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the type of door or window.    If you're installing a composite door, check with the manufacturer prior to making any alterations because this could invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this instance you'll likely have to install a new pane of toughened glass instead.    For wooden or uPVC doors, you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap with the Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. Use a template to mark out the size hole you'll require.      After you've made the hole, you'll need to sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will prevent any water damage or rust from happening in the near future. You should also seal the holes in your window or door and the back of the cat flap to block rain and wind. After the sealant has dried then you're now ready to put in your new cat flap!    Install the Flap    Fitting a flap will allow your cat to go and come whenever it wishes. The majority of people can install the flap by themselves. However, if you want to put it in glass or uPVC type door, you might need a professional.    Begin by reading the instructions included with your cat flap to find the template. This will give you an idea of where the holes for the flap need to be drilled in the door. Then, mark the places that you'll must drill using pencil.    After you've marked the door's opening, use a jigsaw to cut out the design of the cat flap. It's a relatively easy task, but you'll need to be comfortable using a jigsaw. Numerous companies will perform this work for you at a reasonable cost if you are hesitant to do it yourself.    The next step is to attach the interior part of the cat flap to the hole in your door. It is possible to seal the flap prior to you do this, in order to ensure it is waterproof and weatherproof. You can then place the outer part of the cat flap on top of the fixing bolts and then tighten them all together. It is recommended to test the flap with your cat to make sure that it is working properly and that they are able to move easily through it. 

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