Fitting a Cat Flap

Fitting a Cat Flap

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Installing a cat flap in your home is a fantastic option for any pet owner. There are numerous options for you, whether your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have kittens that require to be checked.

It can be intimidating for non-professionals to install a cat flap, but with right instructions it's easy. Preparation, planning and precision are the key to success.

Choose the Right Door or Window

There are a variety of cat flaps available including some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from going out or coming in) and others with advanced features such as microchips for door entry systems. It is important to consider the ease of your cat to train to use the flap prior to making a buy and install one.

Depending on the design of your home, it's generally best to situate the cat flap near the form of a door or window that opens out into an area that is protected from the garden so your cat is secure when entering and leaving the home. If possible it will also provide them a way back should they be chased by a cat or by humans who are intent to hurt them.

It is possible to install a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't the same as fitting one on a wooden door. This is because uPVC and composite doors are available in a variety of thicknesses, which affect how holes are cut and the materials you're fixing them into.

If you're installing the flap inside a glass door it is recommended that you find a glazier who is experienced in such work to avoid any costly mistakes. If you're fitting the flap to the door made of wood, start by introduction of your cat to it prior to fitting it to allow them to be familiar with its shape and size and explore it from every angle.

Measure Your Cat's Belly

In order to install the right cat flap that's suitable for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat's size. This will allow you to ensure that the cat flap is placed at the right height for the window or door, and that it is large enough for him to get in and leave easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers over their belly. Look for a fat pad that is squishy around the lower back and face, as well as the limbs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline Acrobatics.

You can also consider your pet's weight as a way to determine the size of the opening you require. If your cat weighs up to 5kg, for instance the suggested flap opening size is 14x12cm.

Measure your window or door

This kind of cat flap, as its name suggests, is designed to be installed into the door. It lets your pet be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. They are usually made from plastic or aluminium and simply sit in the centre of the door with an open door that is opened by pushing lightly on either side. The flaps can be locked which provide extra security so your cat cannot simply enter the door from outside.

A window is another popular place to put a cat flap, and they are simple enough to put in, but they usually 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 a cat's click here flap, you can use ramps, steps or specially designed stairs to assist the animal in reaching it.

A cat flap could be installed into a brick wall, however this is not recommended unless familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it's essential to make sure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. If there are, a hole needs to be created for them and this is something you should always seek expert advice on. Wearing protective glasses or a dust mask can ensure that you don't breathe in the sawdust created when cutting through your walls.

Choose the right cat flap

There are numerous cat flaps on the market and each one comes with different features. Certain cat flaps come with security features, such as magnetic locks or microchips which prevent unauthorised entry. They also stop your pet from allowing friends or animals to here enter the house. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to keep out draughts and moisture.

There are different sizes that are available based on the size and breed of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, whereas others are square or circular. The type of cat flap you select will depend on the size of the opening and the kind of door or window you're fixing it to.

Finally, think about the opening mechanism that your cat flap is likely to have. The cheapest option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. check here However, it will not stop other pets or cats from gaining access and you could let draughts through too.

It's time to install your cat flap. Determine the belly height of the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is sitting straight against 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 your saw, cut out the outline of the door. When you're happy with the results sand down the edges and then drill through the pencil marks to create holes for the screws.

Make the Tools

It's essential to have the right tools when doing any DIY project. The main things you'll need are the cat flap along with a tape measure, a decent pencil as well as a spirit level, drill, file and a Jigsaw (depending on the windows or doors).

Consult the manufacturer before making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal to be broken. In here this case you'll need to fit an additional pane of toughened glass instead.

For wooden or uPVC doors you'll need to cut out the shape of your cat flap using the 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'll have to sand the edges of the opening. This should prevent any rust or water damage from happening in the future. It is also recommended to cover the holes in your door or window and the back of the cat flap to keep out rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry and dry, you can install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

Installing a flap allows your cat to come and go whenever it wishes. It's a simple procedure that most people can complete themselves, although you will likely need to hire an expert for installing the flap in a glass door or other type of uPVC door.

Begin by studying the instructions that come with the flap to locate the template. This will give you an idea of where holes for the flap will need to be drilled into the door. Note the areas you'll have to drill with a pencil.

After you have marked the door on your door, you can use the jigsaw and cut out the design for the cat flap. This is a relatively easy job, but you'll require a good understanding of the saw. If you're worried about doing it yourself, there are plenty of businesses that can handle check here this for you at a very low cost.

Then, attach the outer part to the hole in your door. It might be necessary to seal the flap before you do this to keep it waterproof and weatherproof. The outside of your cat flap could be placed on the bolts on top, and then tacked together. You must test the cat flap on your cat to confirm that it's working properly and allows the cat to go in and out easily.