Fitting a Cat Flap

Fitting a Cat Flap

Blog Article

Installing a cat flap in to your home can be a huge step for any pet owner. There are many options available to you, regardless of whether your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have kittens that need to be checked.

It can be a bit daunting for people who aren't experts in installing a cat flap, but with proper instructions, it's simple. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the keys.

Select the Right Door or Window

There are many different types of cat flaps, some with locks that can be used to stop your pet from getting out or in and others with high tech features like microchip door entry system. It is important to consider how easy it is for your cat to train to use the flap prior to making a purchase and fit one.

It is best to place the cat flap, depending on the design of your home, inside a window that opens into a garden that is sheltered. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering or leaving your home. If you can it will also provide them a way back case they are pursued by a different cat or by humans intent on harming them.

It is possible to install the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it's not the same as fitting one on a wooden door. This is because uPVC and composite doors are available in different thicknesses, which affect the way holes are cut as well as the material you're fixing it into.

If you're installing the flap inside the glass of a door it is recommended that you seek out a glazier that is skilled in this kind of work to avoid costly errors. If you're installing the flap to the door made of wood, start by introduction of your cat to it before you fit it to allow them to become familiar with its shape and size and explore it from every angle.

Measure Your Cat's Belly

To install a cat flap that's the right size for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat. This will help you ensure that the cat flap is at the right height for the door or window and that it's big enough to allow him to enter and leave easily.

To do this, place your pet on their back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Look for any squishy fat pads which might be visible around their lower back, face or 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 take into account the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you need. If your cat weighs more than 5Kg, for example, the suggested cat flap size is 14x12cm.

Take a measurement of your window or door

This kind of cat flap, as the name suggests is designed to be installed into a door. It lets your pet enter and exit at its convenience. These flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and sit in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that opens by gently pushing on either side. The flaps are available with locking options which provide extra security so your cat cannot simply traverse the door from outside.

A window is a common location for a cat's flap, and they're easy enough to install, though they usually need to website be located high enough as it's difficult for dogs and cats to access them. If the window is too high get more info to use a cat flap, ramps, steps, or specially built stairs can be utilized to aid the animal in accessing it.

It is possible to insert the cat flap onto the brick wall, however it is not recommended for people who aren't familiar with masonry. This could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's essential to make sure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. If there are, there must be a hole made for them. This is something you should always seek expert advice on. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask can allow you to avoid breathing in the sawdust that is created when cutting into your walls.

Choose the right cat flap

There are many cat flaps available on the market, and they all offer different features. Some cat flaps have security features, such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry. They also stop your pet from allowing friends or animals to enter the home. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to keep out water and drafts.

There is also a choice of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular, while others are square or circular. Choosing the right type of cat flap will be determined by the space available and the kind of door or window you intend to install it on.

Last but not least, consider the type of opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. The cheapest option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It won't prevent other cats and pets from entering the room, and you could be letting in drafts.

After you've chosen the correct cat flap and measured your windows or doors, 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 sitting straight on the door and not too low. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, using the Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. Once you are happy with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for screws.

Prepare the Tools

It's essential to have the right tools when more info doing any DIY project. The most important things you'll require 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 windows or doors).

Consult the click here manufacturer before making any changes to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal to be broken. In this instance, you'll probably require a new pane of toughened glass instead.

For wooden or uPVC doors will require cutting out the shape of your cat flap with the Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to mark out the size hole you'll require.

After you've here made the hole, you'll need to sand the edges of the opening. This will prevent future rust and water damage. In the end, you must apply any sealant you require to the rear of the cat flap and to the holes in the window or door to block the elements of wind and rain. Once the sealant has dried, you can install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to move around whenever it wants, installing flaps can aid. Most people can put in the flap themselves. However when you plan to install it on a glass or uPVC type door, you may need an expert.

Check out the directions that came with the cat flap. There is a template drawing. This will provide you with an idea of where the holes for the flap will need to be drilled into the door. Then, mark the places where you have to drill using pencil.

After you have marked the door on your door, use the jigsaw to cut the design for the cat flap. This is a relatively simple job, but you'll need to be comfortable with a jigsaw. Numerous companies will perform this task for you for a reasonable price If you're not sure how to tackle it yourself.

Then, screw the inner part to the hole in your door. It may be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this, in order to keep it waterproof and weatherproof. The outer part of your cat flap could be placed on the bolts on top, and then securing them. It is recommended that you test the flap with your cat to ensure that it functions properly and that they are able to move easily through it.