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Installing a cat flap in your home is a fantastic option for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have new kittens who require a vet check, there are a lot of options there for you. Installing a cat flap can be intimidating for people who aren't professionals, but, with the right instructions, it's not difficult to complete. The key is preparation, planning and precision. Select the Right Door or Windows There are many different types of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to keep your pet from leaving or in, while others have modern features such as microchips or a door entry systems. It is important to consider how easy it will be to teach your cat how to use the flap, before you buy and install one. Based on the style of your house, it's generally best to put the cat flap inside an opening or window that opens out into a sheltered area of the garden so that your cat is secure when going into and out of the house. If you can it will also provide them a route back in should they be chased by another 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's not the same as fitting one on a wooden door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors are available in various thicknesses, and this can impact the way holes are cut as well as the material you're fixing it into. To avoid costly mistakes to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended that you consult an expert glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If you are fitting the flap to an existing wooden door, you should introduce your cat to it first to make sure it is familiar with its size and shape. Take a look at your cat's belly measurement It is important to know the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you put in is a good fit. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is at the correct height on your door or window, and that it's large enough to allow 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 a fat pad that is squishy around the lower back or face, or around the limbs. The extra padding offers your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the acrobatics cats are famous for. You can also use the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you need. If your cat is up to 5Kg in weight for instance that's a 14x12cm flap for your cat is recommended. Make sure you measure your door or window As the name suggests this kind of cat flap is made to be attached to an opening and provide a way for your pet to enter or leave at any time it wishes. They are usually made from plastic or aluminium and simply sit in the centre of the door with the possibility of a swinging door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. They are available in locking versions that offer added security, so your cat cannot simply enter the door from outside. Cat flaps are also commonly used on windows. They are able to be easily installed, but they need to be placed at a high level as cats and dogs find it difficult to reach them. If the window is too high to be used as a cat flap then ramps, steps, or specially built stairs can be used to aid the animal in accessing it. It is possible to install the cat flap onto brick walls, however it is not recommended for those who aren't familiar with brickwork. This could weaken the structure of the wall. Before cat flap fitters begin, it's important to make sure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. If there are, then an opening must be made for them. This is something that you should always seek professional advice on. It's also advisable to wear safety goggles and a dust protection mask to avoid breathing in any of the sawdust created by cutting holes in your home's walls. Select the Right Cat Flap There are many cat flaps on the market, and they have different features. Some cat flaps have security features such as magnetic locks or microchips which prevent unauthorised 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 various sizes that are available based on the breed and size of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, whereas others are circular or square. 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. Finally, think about the mechanism for opening your cat flap will come with. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. But, it will not stop other pets or cats from entering your home and you could let draughts in as well. It's time to put in your cat flap. Start by marking the belly's height on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is sitting exactly on the door and not too low. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, using the saw, cut out the outline of the door. When you're satisfied with the result, sand the edges and then drill through the pencil marks to make holes for screws. Prepare the Tools It's important to have the right tools for performing any DIY project. You'll need the cat flap, a pencil and tape measure along with a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the type of window or door. Consult the manufacturer before making any changes to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal to become damaged. In this scenario, it's likely that you'll need to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass. You'll require a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines provided by the manufacture. Use a template if possible to mark the size hole you need. After you've made the hole, you'll have to sand the edges of the opening. This will help prevent any future water damage or rust. You should also seal the holes in your window or door and the side of the flap to keep out wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry then you can put up your new cat-flap! Install the Flap Installing a flap allows your cat to go and come whenever it pleases. This is a simple process that most people can accomplish themselves, although you'll likely require the help of a professional if you are installing the flap on the form of a glass door or another type of uPVC door. Begin by reading the instructions that come with the flap to locate the template drawing. This will give an idea of where holes need to be drilled for the flap on the door. Mark the areas you will need to drill in using the pencil. After you have mapped out the door's opening and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a relatively simple job, but you'll need to be comfortable with the saw. Many companies will do this task for you at a reasonable cost If you're not sure how to take on the task yourself. Next, you will need to attach the inside of the flap onto the hole in your door. It is possible to seal the flap before you do this in order to keep it waterproof and weatherproof. You can then place the outer section of the flap on the top of the fixing bolts and tighten them all. You should test the flap on your cat to ensure that it is working correctly and that it allows them to exit and enter easily.