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Getting a cat flap fitted in to your home can be a big step for any pet owner. If your cat is old and needs extra security or you have a new kitten that need to be vetted, there are plenty of options out there to choose from. Installing a cat flap can be a daunting task for novices, but, with the right instructions, it's easy to accomplish. The most important thing is planning, preparation and accuracy. Select the Right Door or Window There are a wide variety of cat flaps to choose from including some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet going out or coming in) and others with high-tech features such as microchips for door entry systems. It is important to consider how easy it is for your cat to train to use the flap before you buy and install one. Based on the style of your house, it's usually best to situate the cat flap in a window or door that opens out into an area that is protected from the garden so your cat is secure when going into and out of the house. If you can, this will also give them a way back should they get chased by a cat or by humans intent on harming them. It's possible to put a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as easy as putting one in a wood door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors are available in various thicknesses, which affect how holes are cut and the materials you're fixing them into. If you're installing the flap in a glass door it is recommended that you consult a glazier who specialises in such work to avoid costly errors. If you're fitting the flap to a wooden door, start by the cat with it prior to fitting it to allow them to be familiar with its shape and size and explore it from every angle. Find out the size of your cat's belly You'll need the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you choose to install is the perfect fit. This will allow you to ensure that the cat flap is installed at the right height on the door or window, and also that it's large enough to allow him to enter and leave easily. Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers over their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back, face or legs. The extra padding offers your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the acrobatics cats are famous for. Alternatively, you can also consider your pet's weight as a way to determine the size of the opening you'll need. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg, for example the suggested cat flap size is 14x12cm. Measure Your Door or Window The name implies, this type of cat flap is designed to be fixed into an opening and provide an opportunity for your pet to go in or out 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 is opened by lightly pushing on either side. They can be locked that offer added security, which means that your cat can't traverse the door from outside. Cat flaps are also often employed in windows. They can be easily installed, but they need to be installed at a high level as cats and dogs have a difficult time to get them. If the window is too high for a cat flap then steps, ramps or purpose constructed stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it. It is possible to install a cat flap into the brick wall, however it is not recommended for people who aren't familiar with masonry. This could weaken the wall's structure. It is essential to ensure that there are no cables and pipes in the wall prior to you begin. It is recommended to consult an expert when you need to create a hole for cables and pipes. It is also recommended to wear safety goggles and a dust-proof mask to prevent inhaling any of the sawdust created by cutting through the walls of your home. Select the Right Cat Flap There are numerous cat flaps available and they all have various features. Some come with security options such as magnetic locks or microchips that stop unauthorized entry and restrict your pet from letting pets or friends into the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to keep out water and drafts. There's also a range of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are available in rectangular shapes, whereas others are circular or square. The best type of cat flap will be determined by the space you have available and the kind of door or window you want to attach it to. Lastly think about the mechanism to open your cat flap will come with. A simple aluminium or plastic swing-out door is one choice and is typically the least expensive. But, it will not stop other pets or cats from gaining access and you could let draughts in as well. Once you've selected the appropriate cat flap and measured your door or window and window, it's now time to put it in place it. Begin by marking the belly height on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line isn't too low and is straight on the door. Use your spirit level to draw a sketch of the flap for cats. Then, using a saw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you are satisfied with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws. Prepare the Tools Like all DIY tasks, it's advisable to make sure you have the appropriate tools to complete the task. fitting a cat flap 'll require the cat flap along with an eraser and tape measure along with a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the type of door or window. Contact the manufacturer prior to making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal broken. In this case it's likely that you'll need to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass. You'll need to use the jigsaw to cut your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacture. Make use of a template to mark the size hole you require. After you've made the hole, you'll need to sand the edges of the opening. This will prevent any future water damage or rust. It is also recommended to cover the holes in your door or window and the back of the flap to prevent wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry then you can put up your new cat flap! Install the Flap If you want your cat to be able to move around at will, installing flaps can be helpful. This is a simple process that most people can accomplish by themselves, though you will likely require the help of a professional if you are installing the flap on an unglazed door or any other kind of uPVC door. Begin by reading the instructions included with the flap to locate the drawing template. This will give you an idea of where the holes will be drilled for the flap in the door. Note the areas you'll need to drill into with the pencil. After you have marked the area on your door, you can use the jigsaw and cut out the the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task, but you will require a good understanding of the Jigsaw. If you are worried about doing it yourself, there are many businesses that can handle this for you at a minimal cost. Then, attach the outer part to the hole of your door. It might be necessary to seal the flap before you do this in order to keep it weatherproof and watertight. The outside of your cat flap may be placed on the bolts on top, and then tightened together. You should test the cat flap on your cat to ensure that it's working properly and that it allows the cat to go in and out easily.