Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is a fantastic option for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and needs extra security or you have new kittens that require a thorough screening There are plenty of options out there for you.

It can be difficult for people who aren't experts in installing a cat flap, but with right instructions it's easy. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and precision.

Choose the Right Door, or Window

There are many different types of cat flaps, including some with locks that can be used to prevent your pet from getting out or in and others with advanced features like microchips for door entry system. It is important to consider how easy your cat is to train to use the flap prior to making a buy and install one.

It is best to place the cat flap, based on the style of your home, inside a window that opens into an area of the garden that is protected. This will help your cat feel safe when entering or leaving your home. This will also enable them to get back inside in the event of being pursued by a pet or human beings who wish to hurt them.

It is possible to install a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it's not the same as fitting one in a wood door. It's because uPVC or composite doors are available in various thicknesses. This could affect the method of cutting holes, and what you fix into.

To avoid costly mistakes It is recommended to consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you're installing the flap into the door made of wood, you should introduce your cat to it at first to make sure it is familiar with its size and shape.

Take a look at your cat's belly measurement

To install the right cat flap that's a good fit for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's size. This will allow you to ensure that your cat flap is at the right height for the door or window and that it is large enough for him to enter and out easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers along their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back or face, or around the legs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline circus skills.

You can also use the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you require. If your cat weighs 5kg, for instance the suggested flap opening size is 14 x 12cm.

Measure Your Door or Window

The name implies this kind of cat flap is designed to be fixed into the door, and offers the pet with a way to leave or enter whenever it wants. They are typically made of plastic or aluminium and simply are placed in the middle of the door with an open door that opens by pressing lightly on either side. There are locks on some of these flaps that offer added security so your cat won't be able to simply traverse through the door from outside.

A window is another common location for a cat's flap and these are 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 is too high for a cat flap, steps, ramps or purpose built stairs can be utilized to assist the animal get access to it.

It is possible to put a cat flap into brick walls, however it is not recommended for people who aren't experienced in masonry. This could cause the wall to weaken. Before you begin, it's essential to ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. If there are, there must be a hole made for them. This is something that you should always seek professional advice on. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask can allow you to avoid breathing in the sawdust that is created when you cut into your walls.

Select the Right Cat Flap

There are numerous cat flaps available on the market, and have various features. Some flaps are equipped with security features like magnetic locks or microchips which prevent unauthorised entry. They also keep your pet from letting guests or another animal into the home. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to block out draughts and moisture.

There's also cat flap installation www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are available in rectangular shapes, whereas others are circular or square. The kind of cat flap you select will depend on the size of the opening and the kind of door or window you're fitting it to.

Finally think about the opening mechanism that your cat flap will have. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. But, it will not keep other animals or cats from entering your home and you could be letting draughts in too.

Once you have selected the appropriate cat flap and measured your door or window and window, it's now time to put it in place it. Begin by marking the height of the belly on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure the line isn't too low and is in line with the door. Utilize your spirit level to draw a sketch of the cat flap. Next, use your saw to cut out the door's outline. Once you're happy with the results sand down the edges and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.

Prepare the Tools

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

If you're installing in a composite door, it is recommended to check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes as this may affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this instance you'll require an additional pane of toughened glass instead.

You'll require a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. If possible, you can use an example to determine the dimensions of the hole you have to cut.

After you've cut the hole, you will have to sand off the edges of the opening. This will stop any future water damage or rust. 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 rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry and dry, you can install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to go and come whenever it wants, installing flaps can be helpful. Most people can put in the flap themselves. However when you plan to install it on glass or uPVC type door, you may require a professional.

Look at the instructions that came with the cat flap. You will find an illustration of the template. This will give you an idea of where the holes for the flap will need to be drilled into the door. Then, mark the places in which you will must drill using the pencil.

After you have marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw and cut out the shape for the cat flap. It's a relatively easy job, but you'll need to be comfortable with a saw. If you are worried about doing it yourself, there are a lot of companies that can complete this for you at a low cost.

Then, you can screw the inside part of the door to the hole in your door. It is possible to seal it prior to doing this to ensure it remains weather-proof and water resistant. The outer section of your cat flap can be placed on the bolts on top, and then securing them. It is recommended that you test the flap using your cat to make sure that it works correctly and that they are able to get in and out of it.