Fitting a Cat Flap
Installing a cat flap in your home is a fantastic option for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and requires extra security, or you have new kittens who require a vet check there are a lot of options there to choose from.
It can be intimidating for non-professionals to install a cat flap, but with proper guidelines, it's easy. The key is preparation, planning and precision.
Select the Right Door or Windows
There are a variety of cat flaps that are available including some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from going out or coming in) and others with high-tech features like microchip door entry systems. It is important to think about how easy it will be to teach your cat how to use the flap, before you buy and install one.
It is best to place the cat flap, depending on the design of your house, in a window that opens into a garden that is sheltered. This will help your cat feel safe when entering or leaving your home. This will also allow them to return inside if they're chased by other animals or human beings who wish to hurt them.
You can put a cat flap in the form of a uPVC door or a glass window however, it's not as simple as putting one in wooden doors. It's because uPVC or composite doors are available in a variety of thicknesses. This can affect the method of cutting holes, and the material you put into.
If you're installing the flap on the glass of a door, it's recommended that you seek out a glazier that is skilled in this kind of work to avoid costly mistakes. If you're fitting the flap to the door made of wood you must introduce your cat to it at first so that it can become familiar with its size and shape.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
In order to install the right cat flap that's the right size for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat's height. This will enable 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 get in and leave easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers along their belly. Look for any squishy fat pads which could be visible on their lower back, face and limbs. The padding provides your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics that felines are famous for.
Alternatively, you can also consider your pet's weight as a way to gauge how big an opening you require. If your cat weighs more than 5kg, for instance the suggested flap size is 14x12cm.
Make sure you measure your door or window
Like the name suggests this kind of cat flap is designed to be affixed to a door and provides the pet with a way to enter or leave at any time it wishes. They are usually made from aluminum or plastic and sit in the centre 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 extra security, so your cat isn't able to walk through from the outside.
A window is another popular location for a cat's flap and these are easy enough to fit, although they are usually placed high up as it's difficult for dogs and cats to reach them otherwise. If the window is too high for a cat flap then steps, ramps or purpose built stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it.
It is possible to insert a cat flap into brick walls, 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 ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. If there are, an opening must be made for them. This is something that you should always seek expert advice on. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask will allow you to avoid breathing in the sawdust created when you cut into your walls.
Choose the right cat flap
There are numerous cat flaps on the market and they all have different features. Some come with security options such as magnetic locks or microchips that block entry by unauthorized persons and restrict your pet from letting guests or other animals to enter the home. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals that keep out draughts and moisture.
There are different sizes available depending on the size and breed of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, while 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 mechanism to open your cat flap will come with. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is an alternative and is usually the cheapest. It won't prevent other animals and cats from entering however, and you could let in draughts.
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. Make a mark on the belly of the door using a ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is not too low and is straight on the door. Use your spirit level to draw a sketch of the flap for cats. Next, use your Jigsaw to cut the door's outline. When you're satisfied with the result, sand the edges and drill through the pencil marks to create holes for the screws.
Make the Tools
As with all DIY jobs, it's always advisable to make sure you have the proper tools for the job. The most important things you'll require are the cat flap itself, a tape measure and a good pencil as well as a spirit level, a file, drill and the jigsaw (depending on the window or door type).
Consult the manufacturer before making any changes to a door made of composite. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to be damaged. In this instance it's likely that you will need to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.
For wooden or uPVC doors you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap using a jigsaw and follow the instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to mark the size hole you'll need.
After you've made the hole, you'll need to sand the edges of the opening. This should prevent any water damage or rust from happening in the future. You should also cover the holes in your door or window and the back of the flap to block wind and rain. After cat flap installer near me Repair My Windows And Doors has dried it is time to install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to go and come as it pleases, fitting flaps can aid. This is a simple process that most people can do by themselves, though you'll likely need to hire an expert if you're installing the flap on a glass door or other type of uPVC door.
Take a look at the instructions included with your cat flap. You will find an illustration of the template. This will give you an idea of where holes for the flap need to be drilled into the door. Mark the areas you'll need to drill in with pencil.
Once you have marked out the door's area then use a jigsaw cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a relatively simple task however you'll need be comfortable with a saw. If you are worried about doing this yourself, there are plenty of companies that can complete this for you at a low cost.
Next, you will need to screw the inner part of the cat flap to the hole in your door. You may have to seal it prior to doing this to ensure it remains weather-proof and water resistant. The outer section of your cat flap could be placed on the bolts' tops and then securing them. You should test the cat flap on your cat to confirm that it is working correctly and allows them to exit and enter easily.