Fitting a Cat Flap

Getting a cat flap fitted inside your home can be a huge step for any pet owner. There are a variety of options to you, regardless of whether your cat is old and requires extra security or if you have kittens who need to be vetted.
Installing a cat flap could be daunting for non-professionals but, with the right instructions, it's not difficult to accomplish. Preparation, planning and precision are the key to success.
Select the Right Door or Windows
There are a variety of cat flaps, including some with locks that can be used to stop your pet from leaving or in and others with high tech features like microchip door entry system. But, it's important to think about how easy it is for your cat to train to use the flap prior to making a buy and install one.
It is recommended to put the cat flap, depending on the style of your home, in the form of a window that opens to a sheltered garden area. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering or leaving your home. If you can, this will also give them a way back should they be chased by another cat or by humans who are intent to harm them.
You can put an egress flap inside the form of a uPVC door or a glass window however, it's not as easy as putting one in a wooden door. It's because uPVC or composite doors are available in a variety of thicknesses. This can affect the method of cutting holes, and the type of door you can fix to.
If you're installing the flap on the glass of a door it is recommended to find a glazier who is experienced in such work to avoid any costly errors. If you're installing the flap on an old wooden door, begin by the cat with it prior to fitting it, so that they become familiar with its shape and size, and explore it from all angles.
Take This Web site at your cat's belly measurement
You'll need the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap you put in is the perfect fit. This will enable you to ensure that your cat flap is installed at the right height on the window or door, and that it is large enough for him to get in and out easily.
To do this, lay your pet on their back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back, face or legs. The extra padding shields 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 the size of opening you require. If your cat is at or above 5kg in weight, for example, a 14 x 12cm cat flap opening is advised.
Take a measurement of your windows or doors
Like the name suggests the cat flap is made to be attached to an opening and provide the pet with a way to leave or enter as it pleases. These flaps are constructed of plastic or aluminum and sit in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that opens by gently pressing on either side. There are locking cat flap installers near me of these flaps that provide added security so your cat won't be able to simply walk through from the outside.
A window is a common place to put a cat flap, and they are simple enough to fit, although they often need to be located high enough as it's difficult for cats and dogs to reach them otherwise. If the window isn't high enough to use the flap for cats, you can make use of steps, ramps or stairs that are specially designed to aid the animal in getting to it.
It is possible to insert the cat flap onto a brickwall, but it is not recommended for people who aren't familiar with masonry. This could weaken the structure of the wall. It's important to check that there aren't any cables and pipes within the wall before you begin. It is recommended to consult an expert if you have to make a hole for pipes or cables. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask will ensure that you don't breathe in the dust that is generated when cutting into your walls.
Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.
There are numerous cat flaps on the market, and they all offer various features. Certain cat flaps come with security features, such as magnetic locks or microchips that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also keep your pet from letting friends or other animals into the home. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals that keep out the elements of moisture and draughts.
There are various sizes to choose from based on the size and breed of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, whereas others are square or circular. Choosing the right type of cat flap will be dictated by the space you have available and the kind of door or window you are fitting it to.
Last but not least, take into consideration the kind of opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. However, it will not prevent other cats or pets from entering and you may let draughts in too.
After you've chosen the correct cat flap and measured the window or door then it's time to install it. Begin by marking the height of the belly on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit-level to make sure that the line is not too low and is straight on the door. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, using a Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. Once you are satisfied with the result finish sanding the edges and drill through the pencil markings to make holes for screws.
Prepare the Tools
Like all DIY tasks, it's recommended to have the right tools for the job. You'll require the cat flap as well as a pencil and tape measure along with a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the type of door or window.
If you're installing in a composite door, you should check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes, as this may affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this case it's likely that you'll have to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.
For wooden or uPVC doors, you'll need to cut out the shape of your cat flap using a Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines given by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to mark out the size hole you'll need.
After you've made the hole, you will need to sand the edges of the opening. This will prevent the possibility of water damage and rust. You should also seal the holes in your window or door and the back of the cat flap to prevent wind and rain. After the sealant has dried then you can put up your cat flap!
Install the Flap
Installing a flap allows your cat to move around whenever it pleases. The majority of people can install the flap by themselves. However, if you want to install it in the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you may need a professional.
Check out the directions that came with the cat flap. There is a template drawing. This will give you an idea of the location where the holes will be drilled for the flap to be placed in the door. Mark the areas you'll need to drill into using the pencil.
After you've marked the area in your door and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the shape of the cat flap. It's a relatively easy job however you'll need be comfortable with the jigsaw. Many companies will do this work for you at a reasonable cost If you're not sure how to tackle it yourself.
The next step is to screw the inner part of the cat flap to the hole in your door. It might be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this to ensure it is weatherproof and watertight. You can then place the outer section of the flap on top of the fixing bolts and then tighten the bolts all together. You should test the flap on your cat to make sure that it is working correctly and allows the cat to go in and out easily.