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Getting a cat flap fitted in to your home can be a big step for any pet owner. There are a variety of options for you, whether your cat is old and requires extra security or you have kittens that require to be checked.Installing a cat flap can be a daunting task for novices, but, with the right instructions, it's not hard to do. The most important thing is planning, preparation and precision.Select the Right Door or WindowsThere's a wide selection of cat flaps available, some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from going out or entering) and others that have high-tech features such as microchips for door entry systems. But, it's important to think about the ease of your cat to train to use the flap prior to making a purchase and install one.Based on the style of your house It is recommended to put the cat flap in the form of a door or window that opens out into an area that is protected from the garden so your cat can feel safe when going into and out of the house. This will also allow them to return inside in the event of being chased by another animal or human beings who wish to hurt them.It is possible to install a cat flap in the case of a uPVC door or a glass window however, it's not as simple as fitting one into a wooden door. This is because uPVC or composite doors come in different thicknesses. This can impact the method of cutting holes, and the material you put into.If you're installing the flap in a glass door it is recommended that you consult a glazier who specialises in this type of work to avoid any costly errors. If you're installing the flap to an old wooden door, begin by the cat with it before you fit it to allow them to become familiar with its size and shape and explore it from all angles.Take a look at your cat's belly measurementTo install the right cat flap that's suitable for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's height. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is the right height for your window or door and that it's wide enough to allow them to get in and exit with ease.To do this, lay your pet on their back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back and face, as well as the legs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline Acrobatics.You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine how large opening you require. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg in weight for instance that's a 14x12cm flap for the cat is advised.Measure your windows or doorsThis kind of cat flap, as its name suggests, is made to be fitted into the door. It lets your pet move in and out at their convenience. The flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and sit in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that is opened by gently pressing on either side. There are locks on some of these flaps that provide extra security, so your cat isn't able to traverse through the door from outside.Full Write-up is a common location for a cat flap and these are easy enough to install, though they usually need to be located high enough as it's difficult for dogs and cats to reach them otherwise. If the window is too high to be used as a cat flap, steps, ramps or purpose built stairs can be utilized to assist the animal get access to it.A cat flap can be installed into a brick wall, however this is not recommended unless you're skilled in masonry work as it could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's essential to ensure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. If they are, an opening must be created for them and this is something that you should always seek professional advice on. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask can ensure that you don't breathe in the sawdust that is created when cutting into your walls.Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.There are many different cat flaps on the market and each one comes with various features. Some come with security options such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition to block entry by unauthorized persons and prevent your pet from allowing guests or other animals to enter the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to block water and drafts.There's also a range of sizes, based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular, 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 are fitting it to.Lastly, think about the mechanism to open your cat flap is likely to have. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is one option and is usually the cheapest. However, it won't stop other pets or cats from entering your home and you could let draughts through as well.It's time to install your cat flap. Start by marking the height of the belly on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is sitting exactly on the door and not too low. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, using the Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. Once you are satisfied with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil markings to create holes for screws.Make the ToolsLike all DIY jobs, it's always best to have the appropriate tools to complete the task. You'll need the cat flap along with an eraser and tape measure, a spirit-level, a drill and a jigsaw depending on the type of door or window.Check with the manufacturer prior to making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to be damaged. In this scenario you'll require a new pane of toughened glass instead.You'll require an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions provided by the manufacture. Use a template if possible to mark out the size hole you require.After you've cut the required hole, you must smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will help prevent any future water damage or rust. It is also recommended to seal the holes in your door or window and the side of the flap to prevent rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry, you're ready to install your new cat flap!Install the FlapIf you want your cat to come and go as it pleases, fitting a flap can help. This is a simple process that most people can accomplish on their own, but you will likely need to hire an expert if you're installing the flap on the form of a glass door or another kind of uPVC door.Look at the instructions that came with your cat flap. You will find a template drawing. This will give you an idea of where holes for the flap have to be drilled into the door. Mark the areas where you have to drill using a pencil.After you've marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw to cut the the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task, but you'll need to be comfortable using the jigsaw. If you are concerned about doing this yourself, there are a lot of businesses that can handle this for you at a low cost.Then, screw the inner part to the hole of your door. You may have to apply sealant before doing this to ensure it is weather and water resistant. The outer section of your cat flap can be placed on the bolts' tops and then tightened together. You should test the flap on your cat to ensure that it functions properly and allows them to enter and exit easily.