Fitting a Cat Flap

Fitting a Cat Flap

Blog Article

Installing a cat flap inside your home can be a huge step for any pet owner. If your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have new kittens that need to be vetted There are plenty of options out there to choose from.

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

Select the Right Door or Window

There are a wide variety of cat flaps available, some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from leaving or coming in) and others with advanced features like microchip door entry systems. But, it's important to consider the ease of your cat to teach to use the flap prior to making a purchase and fit one.

It's best to place the cat flap, depending on the design of your house, 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. This will also allow them to get back inside if they're chased by another animal or human who wants to hurt them.

It's possible to install a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as easy as putting one in a wood door. It's because uPVC or composite doors are available in various thicknesses. This could affect the how holes are cut and the material you put to.

If you're installing the flap in glass doors it is recommended to seek out a glazier that is skilled in this type of work to avoid any costly mistakes. If you're fitting the flap onto the door made of wood it is recommended that you introduce your cat first so that it can become familiar with its size and shape.

Take a look at your cat's belly measurement

You'll need your cat's measurements to ensure that the cat flap you put in is the perfect fit. This will help you ensure that the cat flap is placed 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 move your fingers along their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back and face, as well as the limbs. The padding gives your pet safety and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics felines are famous for.

You can also use the weight of your pet to determine how large opening you require. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg in weight, for example that's a 14x12cm flap for the cat is advised.

Make sure you measure your door or window

This type of cat flap, as the name suggests is made to be fitted into a door. It allows your pet to enter and exit at its convenience. The flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and sit in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that is opened by lightly pushing on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps, which provide added security so your cat can't simply traverse through the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also commonly used in windows. They are easy to be installed, however they have to be installed at a high level as cats and dogs have a difficult time to reach them. If the window is too high to use a cat flap, then ramps, steps, or specially built stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it.

Cat flaps can be incorporated into a brick wall but it is not recommended unless skilled in masonry work as it could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it is important to make sure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. If there are, then an opening must be created for them and this is something you should always seek expert advice on. It's here also advisable to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust protection mask to avoid breathing in any sawdust generated by cutting holes in the walls of your home.

Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.

There are a variety of cat flaps available on the market, and they have different features. Some are equipped here with security features like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by unauthorized persons and prevent your pet from allowing guests or other animals to enter the home. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to keep out draughts and moisture.

There is also a choice of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular while others are circular or square. The kind of cat flap you choose will depend on the size of the opening and the kind of door or window you're fixing it to.

The last thing to do is think about the opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. It will not stop other cats and pets from entering however, and you could let in draughts.

After you've chosen the correct cat flap and measured the door or window then it's time to install it. Determine the belly height of the door using a ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is straight against the door and not too low. Utilize your spirit level to draw a template for the cat flap. Then, use a Jigsaw to cut the outline of the door. When you are satisfied with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil lines to create holes for screws.

Prepare the Tools

As with any DIY tasks, it's recommended to have the right tools to complete the task. You'll need a cat flap, an eraser and tape measure as well as a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the kind of window or door.

If you're installing in a composite door, it is recommended to check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes, as this may invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this scenario, you'll probably need to fit a new pane of toughened glass instead.

For wooden or uPVC doors, you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap using the Jigsaw. Follow the directions that are provided by the manufacturer. If possible, use a template to help you determine the size of the hole you'll will need to cut.

After you've cut the hole, you'll need to sand the edges of the opening. This will prevent future rust and water damage. It is also more info recommended to cover the holes in your window or door and the side of the flap to prevent wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry it is time to install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to be able to move around as it pleases, fitting flaps can be helpful. The majority of people can install the flap on their own. However should you wish to install it on a glass or uPVC type door, you may need a professional.

Begin by studying the instructions included with the flap to locate the template. 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 with pencil.

After you have marked the area on your door, you can use the jigsaw and cut out the shape for the cat flap. It's a relatively easy job however, you'll need to be comfortable with the Jigsaw. If you are worried about doing it yourself, there are plenty of businesses that can handle this for you at a low cost.

Next, you will need to attach the inside of the cat flap to the door's hole. You may have to apply sealant prior to doing this to ensure it is weather and water resistant. The outer part of your cat flap may be placed on the bolts on top, and then more info securing them. It is recommended that you test the flap with your cat to make sure that it functions properly and that they can get more info enter and leave easily through it.