Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is an excellent step for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and requires extra security, or you have a new kitten that require a thorough screening there are plenty of options there for you.
Installing a cat flap may be daunting for non-professionals but with the right instructions, it's not hard to complete. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and precision.
Select the Right Door, or Windows
There are a wide variety of cat flaps that are available that come with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from leaving or coming in) and others that have high-tech features such as microchips for door entry systems. But, it's important to consider how easy it is for your cat to train to use the flap prior to making a purchase and install one.
Based on the style of your home It is recommended to situate the cat flap inside a window or door that opens onto a sheltered area of the garden so your cat will feel secure going into and out of the house. This will also allow them to get back inside in the event of being chased by other animals or humans who want to hurt them.
You can install the cat flap on a uPVC door or a glass window however, it's not as simple as putting one in wooden doors. This is because uPVC and composite doors are available in a variety of thicknesses, which affect the way holes are cut and what you're fixing to.
If you're installing the flap inside glass doors, it's recommended that you seek out a glazier that is skilled in this type of work to avoid any costly errors. If you're fitting the flap into an existing wooden door you must introduce your cat to it first to ensure that it becomes familiar with its size and shape.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
In order to install an appropriate cat flap that is suitable for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat's height. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is the right height on your door or window and that it's big enough for them to enter and exit easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers across their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back and face, as well as the limbs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline Acrobatics.
You can also take into account the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you require. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg in weight, for example, a 14 x 12cm flap for your 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. They are usually made from plastic or aluminium and simply rest in the middle of the door. They have the possibility of a swinging door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. These flaps can be locked that provide additional security which means that your cat can't walk through the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also frequently used on windows. They can be easily installed, however they have to be placed at a high level as cats and dogs find it difficult 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 aid the animal in accessing it.
It is possible to insert a cat flap into the brick wall, however it is not recommended for those who aren't experienced in the masonry industry. This could cause the wall to weaken. It's important to check that there are no cables and pipes within the wall before you start. If they are, there must be a hole created for them and this is something you should always seek professional advice on. It's also advisable to wear protective goggles and a dust-proof mask to avoid inhaling any sawdust generated by cutting into the walls of your home.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are numerous cat flaps that are available on the market, and they have various features. Some are equipped with security features like magnetic locks or microchips that block entry by unauthorized persons and prevent your pet from allowing friends or other animals into the home. Certain seals are weatherproof and have 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 available in rectangular shapes, while others are square or circular. The best type of cat flap is determined by the space available and the kind of door or window you intend to install it on.
Last but not least, take into consideration the kind of opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. A simple aluminum or plastic swing-out door is an choice and is typically the cheapest. However, it will not keep other animals or cats from gaining access and you could let draughts in as well.
After you've chosen the appropriate cat flap and measured the window or door, it's time to fit it. Begin by marking the height of the belly on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is straight on the door and not too low. Utilize your spirit level to draw a template for the cat flap. Then, using the Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. When you're satisfied with the result, sand the edges and then drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.
Make the Tools
As with any DIY tasks, it's recommended to have the appropriate tools to complete the task. You'll need the cat flap, a pencil and tape measure as well as a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the kind of window or door.
Check with the manufacturer prior to making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal broken. In this case, it's likely that you will need to replace the glass with a brand new piece of toughened glass.
For wooden or uPVC doors you'll need to cut out the shape of your cat flap using the Jigsaw. Follow the directions given by the manufacturer. Use a template to mark out the size hole you need.
After you've made the hole, you must smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will prevent any rust or water damage from happening in the future. You should also cover the holes in your door or window and the back of the cat flap to block rain and wind. After the sealant has dried, you can install your new cat-flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to come and go as it pleases, fitting flaps can aid. Most 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.
Take a look at the instructions included with your cat flap. There is a template drawing. click the up coming webpage will give you an idea of where the holes for the flap will need to be made in the door. Mark the areas you'll have to drill using the pencil.
After you've marked the area in your door and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task however you'll need be comfortable using a saw. Numerous companies will perform this task for you for a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to take on the task yourself.
The next step is to attach the interior part of the cat flap to the door's hole. You may have to apply sealant before doing this to ensure it stays watertight and weather resistant. You can then place the outer section of the flap on the top of the fixing bolts, and tighten them all. It is recommended to test the cat flap with your cat to make sure that it works correctly and that they can enter and leave easily through it.