Fitting a Cat Flap
Installing a cat flap into your home could be a major step for any pet owner. There are numerous options for you, whether your cat is getting older and requires extra security or you have kittens that need to be vetted.
It can be difficult for non-professionals to install a cat flap, but with the proper guidelines, it's easy. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the most important factors.
Choose the Right Door or Windows
There are many different types of cat flaps, including some with locks that can be used to stop your pet from leaving or in, while others have advanced features like microchips for door entry system. But, it's important to think about the ease of your cat to teach to use the flap prior to making a buy and install one.
It is recommended to put the cat flap, based on the design of your home, in an opening that leads into a garden that is sheltered. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering or leaving your home. This will also enable them to return inside if they are pursued by a pet or human who wants to harm them.
It is possible to install the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't the same as fitting one in a wood door. This is because uPVC and composite doors come in different thicknesses, which affect how holes are cut and what you're fixing to.
To avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended that you consult a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you're installing the flap into an existing wooden door, you should introduce your cat to it at first so that it can become familiar with its dimensions and shape.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
You'll need your cat's measurements to ensure that the cat flap you choose to install is the perfect fit. This will allow you to ensure that your cat flap is placed at the right height for the window or door, and also that it's large enough for him to enter and exit easily.
To do this, put your pet on their back and gently rub your fingers across their belly. Look for any squishy fat pads that may be visible around their lower back, face or limbs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline circus skills.
You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you require. If your cat weighs at or over 5kg for instance, a 14 x 12cm cat flap opening is advised.
Take a measurement of your door or window
As the name suggests, this type of cat flap is designed to be fixed into the door, and offers an opportunity for your pet to leave or enter as it pleases. These flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and sit in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that can be opened by lightly pushing on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps that provide additional security to ensure that your cat can't simply enter the door from the outside.
Cat flaps are also commonly used in windows. They are able to be easily installed, but they need to be placed at an elevated level since cats and dogs find it difficult to access them. If the window is not high enough to use a cat's flap, then you can use ramps, steps, or specially designed stairs to aid the animal in getting to it.
It is possible to put the cat flap onto the brick wall, however it is not recommended for people who aren't familiar with masonry. This could cause the wall to weaken. It's important to check that there aren't any cables or pipes in the wall prior to you start. If there are, then an opening must be created for them and this is something you should always seek expert advice on. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask will help you avoid inhaling the sawdust that is created when you cut into your walls.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are many different cat flaps available and they all have various features. Some cat flaps have security features like magnetic locks or microchip recognition which prevent unauthorised entry. They also keep your pet from letting guests or animals to enter the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to keep out the elements of moisture and draughts.
There are various sizes to choose from based on the breed and size of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular while others are circular or square. Choosing the right type of cat flap will be dictated by the space you have available and the kind of door or window you are fitting it to.
Last but not least, take into consideration the kind of opening mechanism your cat flap will use. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. However, it will not keep other animals or cats from entering your home and you could let draughts in as well.
It's time to put in your cat flap. Start by marking the belly height on the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is straight on the door and not too low. Use your spirit level to draw a template of the flap for cats. Then, you can use your jigsaw to cut out the outline of the door. When you're satisfied with the results sand down the edges and drill through the pencil marks to create holes for the screws.
Make sure you have the tools ready
It's essential to have the right tools available when performing any DIY project. You'll need the cat flap along with tape measure and pencil, a spirit-level, a drill and a jigsaw depending on the type of window or door.
Contact the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal broken. In this scenario, you'll probably have to install an entirely new pane of toughened glass instead.
For wooden or uPVC doors, you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap with the Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. If you can, use an example to determine the size of hole you'll need to cut.
After cat flap fitters near me have cut the hole, you'll have to sand the edges of the opening. This will help prevent any future water damage or rust. You should also seal the holes in your door or window and the back of the cat flap to block rain and wind. After the sealant has dried and dry, you can install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to come and go whenever it wants, installing flaps can be helpful. This is a straightforward process that most people can complete by themselves, though you'll likely require the assistance of a professional if you are installing the flap in a glass door or other kind of uPVC door.
Start by looking at the instructions included with the flap to locate the template. This will give you an idea of where the holes for the flap have to be drilled into the door. Mark the areas you'll have to drill with a 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, but you will need to be comfortable using the saw. Many companies will complete this task for you for a reasonable price if you are hesitant to take on the task yourself.
Next, you will need to attach the inside of the cat flap to the hole in your door. It is possible to seal the flap prior to you do this, in order to keep it waterproof and weatherproof. The outer part of your cat flap may be placed on the bolts on top, and then tacked together. It is recommended to test the cat flap with your cat to make sure that it functions properly and that they are able to get in and out of it.