Installing a cat flap bifold doors flap inside your home can be a big step for any pet owner. There are many options available for you, no matter if your cat is getting older and requires additional security or if you have kittens who need to be examined.

It can be intimidating for people who aren't experts in installing a cat flap, but with proper guidelines, it's easy. Planning, preparation and precision are the most important factors.

Choose the Right Door or Windows

There are a wide variety of cat flaps available that come with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from leaving or entering) and others with high-tech features such as microchip door entry systems. It is important to think about how it is easy to teach your cat to use the flap before you buy and install one.

It is recommended to put the cat flap, depending on the style of your house, in the form of a window that opens to an area of the garden that is protected. This will allow your cat to feel safe when entering or leaving your home. If possible it will also provide them a way back should they be pursued by a different cat or by humans intent to hurt them.

It is possible to install the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't the same as fitting one on a wooden door. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in various thicknesses. This can impact the method of cutting holes, and the material you put to.

To avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended to consult a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a door with a glass front. If you're fitting the flap to a wooden door, start by introduction of your cat to it before you fit it, so that they be familiar with its shape and size and explore it from every angle.

Measure Your Cat's Belly

In order to put in a cat flap that's a good fit for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's size. This will allow you to ensure that the cat flap is at the right height for the door or window and also that it's large enough for him to get in and out easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers over their belly. Feel for any squishy fat pads - these might be visible around their lower back, face or legs. The padding gives your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics that felines are known for.

Alternatively, you can also consider your pet's weight as a way to determine the size of the opening you need. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg in weight, for example an opening of 14 x 12cm flap for the cat is advised.

Make sure you measure your window or door

This type of cat flap, as the name suggests, is designed to be installed into a door. It lets your pet be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. The flaps are made of plastic or aluminum and are located in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that can be opened by gently pressing on either side. They can be locked which provide extra security so your cat cannot simply enter the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also often used on windows. They are able to be easily installed, but they need to be placed at an elevated level since cats and dogs have a difficult time to reach them. If the window is too high to use a cat flap, then steps, ramps or purpose built stairs can be used to aid the animal in accessing it.

It is possible to insert a cat flap into a brickwall, but it is not recommended for those who aren't familiar with the masonry industry. This could cause the wall to weaken. It is important to make sure there are no cables and pipes inside the wall before you start. If there are, then a hole needs to be made for them. This is something that you should always seek professional advice on. Wearing protective glasses or a dust mask will allow you to avoid breathing in the dust that is generated when you cut into your walls.

Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.

There are many cat flaps that are available on the market, and they have different features. Some flaps are equipped with security features such as magnetic locks or microchips which prevent unauthorised entry. They also keep your pet from allowing friends or animals to enter the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to keep out water and drafts.

There are different sizes that are available based on the breed and size of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular, while others are square or circular. Choosing the right type of cat flap is determined by the space you have available and the type of window or door you intend to install it on.

Finally consider the mechanism to open your cat flap will have. The cheapest option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It won't prevent other animals and cats from entering however, and you could let in draughts.

It's time to put in your cat flap. Start by marking the height of the belly on the door using your ruler. Use a spirit-level to make sure that the line is not too low and is in line with the door. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Next, use your jigsaw to cut out the outline of the door. Once you are happy with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil marks to create holes for screws.

Make the Tools

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

If you're installing a composite door, you should consult with the manufacturer before making any alterations since this could cause the warranty to be invalidated or break the weathertight seal. In this instance, it's likely that you'll need to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass.

For wooden or uPVC doors with cat flap, you'll need to cut out the shape of your cat flap using the Jigsaw. Follow the directions that are provided by the manufacturer. If possible, you can use an example to identify the dimensions of the hole you have to cut.

After you've made the hole, you'll have to sand the edges of the opening. This will prevent future rust and water damage. You should also seal the holes in your window or door and the side of the flap to block rain and wind. Once the sealant has dried it is time to install your cat flap!

Install the Flap

fitting a Cat flap (jisuzm.tv) a flap will allow your cat flap step to go and come whenever it wants. It's a simple procedure that most people can complete on their own, but you may require the help of an expert for installing the flap on an unglazed door or any other kind of uPVC door.

Take a look at the instructions that came with your cat flap. There is a template drawing. This will give an idea of where the holes are to be made for the flap in the door. Mark the areas you will need to drill in using the pencil.

Once you have marked out the door's area, use a jigsaw to cut out the shape of the cat flap. It's a relatively easy job, but you'll need to be comfortable with the jigsaw. Many companies will complete this for you at a reasonable cost in case you're hesitant to tackle it yourself.

Then, attach the outer part to the hole in your door. You may need to seal it prior to doing this to ensure it stays watertight and weather resistant. You can then put the outer part of the flap on top of the fixing bolts and then tighten them all together. You should test the cat flap on your cat to ensure that it functions properly and that it allows them to exit and enter easily.