Getting a cat flap fitted into your home could be a huge step for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have kittens that require a thorough screening there are plenty of options there to choose from.
Installing a cat flap can be intimidating for people who aren't professionals, but, with the right instructions, it's not hard to accomplish. The key is preparation, planning and accuracy.
Choose the Right Door or Window
There are a variety of cat flaps available including some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from leaving or entering) and others that have high-tech features like microchip door entry systems. It is important to think about how it is easy to teach your cat how to use the flap before you purchase and install one.
It is best to place the cat flap, depending on the style of your home, in the form of a window that opens to an area of the garden that is protected. This will help your cat feel secure when entering or leaving your home. If you can this will also allow them a route back in case they are chased by another cat or by humans who are intent to harm them.
You can install a cat flap in a uPVC door or glass window, but it's not as straightforward as putting one in a wooden door. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in a variety of thicknesses. This can affect the how holes are cut and the type of door you can fix into.
To avoid costly mistakes to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended to consult a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you're fitting the flap onto a wooden door, you should introduce your cat to it at first to make sure it is familiar with its size and shape.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
To install an appropriate cat flap that is a good fit for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat. This will enable you to make sure that the flap is at the right height for the door or window and also that it's large enough for him to get in and exit easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers over their belly. Feel for any fat pads that are squishy which might be visible around their lower back, face, and the limbs. The padding gives your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the acrobatics cats are famous for.
Alternatively, you can also use your pet's weight to determine the size of the opening you require. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg in weight for instance that's a 14x12cm flap for your cat is recommended.
Take a measurement of your door or window
The name implies, this type of cat flap is designed to be fixed into a door and provides the pet with a way to enter or leave at any time it wishes. These flaps are constructed of aluminum or plastic and sit in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that opens by gently pressing on either side. These flaps can be locked which provide extra security so that your cat is not able to enter the door from outside.
A window is a common location for a cat's flap, and they're easy enough to install, though they are usually set up high as it is difficult for cats and dogs to reach them otherwise. If the window is too high for a cat flap, then ramps, steps or specially built stairs can be utilized to help the animal access it.
It is possible to install a cat flap into brick walls, however it is not recommended for people who aren't experienced in the masonry industry. This could weaken the wall's structure. It's important to check that there aren't any cables and pipes inside the wall before you begin. If there are, then a hole needs to be made for them. This is something you should always seek expert advice on. Wearing protective glasses or a dust mask will ensure that you don't breathe in the sawdust that is created when cutting into your walls.
Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.
There are many different cat flaps on the market and they all have various features. Some cat flaps have security features, such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry. They also keep your pet from letting friends or other animals into the home. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to keep out draughts and moisture.
There are various sizes that are available based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular while others are circular or square. The type of cat flap you choose will depend on the size of the opening and the kind of door or window you're fitting it to.
Lastly consider the mechanism to open your cat flap is likely to have. The cheapest option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. However, it will not prevent other cats or pets from entering your home and you could let draughts in too.
Once you've selected the appropriate cat flap and measured your window or door, it's time to fit it. Make a mark on the belly of the door with your ruler. Make use of a spirit-level to ensure that the line isn't too low and is in line with the door. website Utilize your spirit level to draw a template for the cat flap. Then, using your saw, cut out the outline of the door. When you're happy with the results sand down the edges and then drill through the pencil marks to make holes for the screws.
Prepare the Tools
It's essential to have the right tools when doing any DIY project. The main things you'll need are the cat flap as well as a tape measure, an excellent pencil and a spirit level drill, file, and a Jigsaw (depending on your door or window type).
If you're installing a composite door, check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes, because this could invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this scenario it's likely that you will need to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.
You'll need to use an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the instructions given by the manufacturer. Make use of a template to mark the size hole you require.
After you've cut the required hole, you should then sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will prevent future rust and water damage. It is also recommended to seal the holes in your door or window and the back of the cat flap to block rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry then you're now ready to put in your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
Fitting a flap will allow your cat click here to go and come whenever it pleases. This is a straightforward process that most people can do by themselves, though you may require the assistance of an expert for installing the flap in an unglazed door or any other kind of uPVC door.
Check out the directions that came with the cat flap. You will find a drawing of the template. This will give you an idea website of the location where the holes are to be drilled for the flap in the door. Mark the areas you'll have to drill with pencil.
After you have marked the door on your door, you can use the jigsaw to cut the the cat flap. This is a relatively simple job click here however you'll need be comfortable with a saw. If you are worried about doing it yourself, there are many companies that can do this for you at a minimal cost.
Then, you can screw the inside part to the hole in your door. You may have to apply sealant prior to making this move to ensure it stays watertight and weather resistant. You can then put the outer part of the cat flap on top of the fixing bolts, and tighten them all. You should test the flap on your cat to ensure that it's working properly and that it allows them website to exit and enter easily.