Fitting a Cat Flap
Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is a fantastic step for any pet owner. There are numerous options for you, no matter if your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have kittens who need to be checked.
Installing a cat flap could be a daunting task for novices, but, with the right instructions, it's not difficult to accomplish. The most important thing is planning, preparation and precision.
Select the Right Door, or Windows
There's a wide selection of cat flaps that are available, some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from leaving or entering) and others with high-tech features such as microchips for door entry systems. It is important to think about how easy it will be to teach your cat to use the flap before you buy and install one.
It's best to place the cat flap, based on the design of your home, in an opening that leads into an area of the garden that is protected. This will help your cat feel secure when entering and leaving your home. If you can it will also provide them a route back in should they get chased by a cat or by a human intent on harming them.
It is possible to install a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't the same as fitting one in a wood door. It's because uPVC or composite doors come in various thicknesses. This could affect the how holes are cut and the material you put to.
To avoid costly errors to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended to consult an expert glazier prior to installing the flap on a door with a glass front. If you're installing the flap in an old wooden door, begin by introducing your cat to it prior to fitting it so that they can get used to its shape and size and explore it from every angle.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
You'll need your cat's measurements to ensure that the cat flap you install is the perfect fit. This will ensure that the flap is at the right height on your door or window and that it's big enough for them to enter and exit with ease.
To do this, put your pet on their back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back or face, or around the limbs. The padding gives your pet safety and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics that felines are famous for.
You can also take into account the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you require. If your cat weighs more than 5kg, for instance, the suggested cat flap size is 14 x 12cm.
Make sure you measure your door or window
This kind of cat flap, as its name suggests, is designed to be installed into the door. It allows your pet to enter and exit at its convenience. They are usually made of aluminum or plastic and rest in the middle of the door. They have the possibility of a swinging door that opens by pressing lightly on either side. There are locks on some of these flaps that offer additional security to ensure that your cat isn't able to enter the door from the outside.
Cat flaps are also frequently employed in windows. They are easy to be installed, but they have to be set at an elevated level since cats and dogs find it difficult to access them. If the window is too high to be used as a cat flap, steps, ramps or purpose built stairs can be utilized to help the animal access it.
A cat flap can also be fitted into a brick wall, however it is not recommended unless you're experienced 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. You should always consult a professional if you need to make a hole for cables and pipes. It's also advisable to wear protective goggles and a dust mask to prevent inhaling any sawdust that is created by cutting holes in the walls of your home.
Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.
There are many cat flaps that are available on the market, and they all offer various features. Some have security options such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition to stop unauthorized entry and prevent your pet from allowing guests or other animals to enter the house. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to keep out the elements and keep out drafts.
There's also a variety of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are available in rectangular shapes, while others are square or circular. The best type of cat flap will be determined by the space available as well as the type of door or window you intend to install it on.
Lastly think about the opening mechanism that your cat flap will come with. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. It won't stop other animals and cats from entering however, and you could be letting in draughts.
It's time to install your cat flap. Start by marking the belly height on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is not too low and is in line with the door. Create a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, you can use your Jigsaw to cut the outline in the door. When you're satisfied with the results sand down the edges and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.
Prepare the Tools
Like any DIY tasks, it's advisable to make sure you have the appropriate tools to complete the task. You'll require the cat flap, a pencil and tape measure along with a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the type of door or window.
Contact the manufacturer prior to making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal damaged. In this instance it's likely you'll need to replace the glass with a brand new piece of toughened glass.
For cat flap installation near me or uPVC doors will require cutting out the design of your cat flap with the Jigsaw. Follow the directions given by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to determine the size of hole you'll need.
After you've made the hole, you'll need to sand the edges of the opening. This will stop any future water damage or rust. You should also seal the holes in your window or door and the back of the flap to block rain and wind. After the sealant has dried and dry, you can install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to go and come as it pleases, fitting flaps can aid. This is a simple process that most people can complete on their own, but you will likely require the help of an expert if you're installing the flap on a glass door or other type of uPVC door.
Take a look at the instructions that came with your cat flap. There is a template drawing. This will give you an idea of where holes for the flap will need to be drilled into the door. Then, mark the places that you'll need to drill with a pencil.
Once you have marked out the area in your door then use a jigsaw cut out the design of the cat flap. It is a relatively simple task, but you'll require a good understanding of the saw. If you are worried about doing this yourself, there are a lot 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. It might be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this, in order to ensure it is waterproof and weatherproof. You can then place the outer portion of the cat flap on the top of the fixing bolts and tighten them all. It is recommended to test the flap with your cat to ensure that it functions properly and that they are able to enter and leave easily through it.