Fitting a Cat Flap

Fitting a Cat Flap

Blog Article

Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is a great option for any pet owner. There are many options available for you, no matter if your cat is older and needs extra security or if you have kittens who need to be checked.

It can be a bit daunting for those who aren't professionals to put in an animal flap, but with right instructions it's easy. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the key to success.

Select the Right Door or Windows

There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to prevent your pet from going out or in, while others have advanced features like microchips for door entry systems. It is important to think about how it is easy to teach your cat to use the flap, before you buy and install one.

Based on the style of your home It is recommended to put the cat flap in the form of a door or window that opens out into an area of protection in the garden, so that your cat can feel safe when leaving and entering the home. If possible this will also allow them a route back in case they are pursued by a different cat or by humans intent to harm them.

It is possible to install the cat flap on a uPVC door or a glass window however it's not as simple as putting one in the door made of wood. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors are available in different thicknesses, and this can impact the way holes are cut as well as what you're fixing into.

To avoid costly errors, it is recommended that you consult an expert glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you're fitting the flap in the door made of wood, start by the cat with it prior to fitting it to allow them to get used to its shape and size, and explore it from every angle.

Find out the size of your cat's belly

In order to install the right cat flap that's the right size for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is the correct height on your door or window, and that it's big enough for them to enter and exit with ease.

Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Feel for any squishy fat pads - these might be visible around their lower back, face or the limbs. The padding provides your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics that felines are known for.

You can also use your pet's weight to determine the size of an opening you'll need. If your cat weighs 5Kg, for example the suggested cat flap opening size is 14 x 12cm.

Take a measurement of your door or window

This type of cat flap, as its name suggests, is designed to be installed into a 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 are placed in the middle of the door with an open door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. The flaps are available in locking versions that offer added security, which means that your cat can't enter 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 be set up high as it is difficult for cats and dogs to reach them otherwise. If the window isn't high enough to use a cat's flap, you can use ramps, steps or stairs that are specially designed to aid the animal in getting to it.

A cat flap could be incorporated into a brick wall, however this is not recommended unless experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, read more it's important to make sure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. Always consult an expert if you have to create a hole for cables and pipes. It's also advisable to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust-proof mask to prevent inhaling any sawdust generated by cutting through your home's walls.

Choose the right cat flap

There are many different cat flaps on the market and they all have different features. Some flaps are equipped with security features like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also stop your pet from letting friends or another animal into the home. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to block out the elements and keep out drafts.

There is also a choice of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular, while others are circular or square. Selecting the best cat flap is determined by the space you have available and the type of window or door you are fitting it to.

The last thing to do is take into consideration the kind of opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It will not stop other pets and cats from entering, and you could also let in draughts.

It's time to install your cat flap. Begin by marking the belly height on the check here door with a ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is not too low and that it is straight across the door. Use your spirit level to draw a template for the flap for cats. Then, using a Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. When you're satisfied with the result, sand the edges and then drill through the pencil marks to make holes for the screws.

Prepare the Tools

It is essential to have the right tools when doing any DIY project. You'll need the cat flap, an eraser and tape measure as well as a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the kind of window or door.

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

You'll need an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions that are provided by the manufacturer. If possible, you can use an example to mark out the here size of hole you'll have to cut.

After you have cut the hole, you will have to sand the edges of the opening. This will help prevent future rust and water damage. You should also cover the holes in your window or door and the side of the flap to prevent wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry, you're ready to install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

Installing a flap allows your cat to come and go whenever it wants. Most people can install the flap on their own. However, if you want to put it in the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you might need a professional.

Check out the directions that came with your cat flap. There is an illustration of the template. This will give you an idea of the location where the holes are here to be drilled to install the flap on the door. Then, mark the places in which you will must drill using the pencil.

After you have marked the door on your door, you can use the jigsaw and cut out the the cat flap. This is a relatively easy task, but you will have to be comfortable using the jigsaw. Many companies will do this work for you for a here 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 hole in your door. It might be necessary to seal the flap before you do this in order to ensure it is weatherproof and watertight. Then, you can put the outer portion of the cat flap on top of the fixing bolts, and tighten them all together. You must test the cat flap on your cat to confirm that it's working properly and allows them to enter and exit easily.