Fitting a Cat Flap

Fitting a Cat Flap

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Getting a cat flap fitted into your home could be a big step for any pet owner. There are a variety of options for you, no matter if your cat is getting older and requires additional security or you have kittens who need to be checked.

Installing a cat flap could be daunting for non-professionals but, with the right instructions, it's not difficult to do. The key is preparation, planning and precision.

Choose the Right Door, or Window

There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to stop your pet from getting out or inside, and others that have modern features such as microchips or a door entry systems. But, it's important to consider how easy your cat is to train to use the flap before you buy and install one.

Based on the style of your house, it's usually best to situate the cat flap in the form of a door or window that opens to a sheltered area of the garden so your cat is secure when going into and out of the house. This will also allow them to get back inside if they are pursued by a pet or humans who want to hurt them.

It is possible to install the cat flap on the form of a uPVC door or 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, which can affect the way holes are cut and the material you're fixing it into.

If you're installing the flap in glass doors, it's recommended that you consult a glazier who specialises in this type of work to avoid any costly errors. If you're fitting the flap in the door made of wood, start by the cat with it prior to fitting it, so that they get used to its size and shape and explore it from all angles.

Take a look at your cat's belly measurement

You'll need your cat's measurements to ensure that the cat flap you put in is a perfect fit. This will help you ensure that the flap is at the right height on your door or window and that it's large enough to allow them to enter and exit with ease.

Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers along their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the 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 your pet's weight as a way to determine the size of the opening you need. If your cat is at or above 5kg in weight for instance an opening of 14 x 12cm flap for your cat is advised.

Take a measurement of your door or window

Like the name suggests, this type of cat flap is designed to be fixed into an opening and provide an opportunity for your pet to leave or enter whenever it wants. These flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and are located in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that opens by gently pushing on either side. There are locks on some of these flaps that provide added security so your cat isn't able to traverse through the door from outside.

A window is another popular location for a cat's flap and these are easy enough to put in, but they are usually located high enough as it's difficult for cats and dogs to reach them otherwise. If the window is too high for a cat flap, then ramps, steps, or specially constructed stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it.

It is possible to install an egress into the brick wall, however it is not recommended for those who aren't familiar with masonry. This could weaken the wall's click here structure. It is essential to ensure that there aren't any cables and pipes inside the wall before you begin. You should always consult an expert when you need to make a hole for pipes and cables. It is also recommended to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust mask to avoid breathing in any of the sawdust created by cutting through your home's walls.

Choose the right cat flap

There are numerous cat flaps available on the market, and they have different features. Some come with security options such as magnetic locks or microchips that prevent unauthorized entry website and also prevent your pet from allowing guests or other animals to enter the home. Some have weatherproof seals and 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 square or circular. Choosing the right type of cat flap will be determined by the space you have available and the kind of door or window you want to attach it to.

Also, think about the opening mechanism that your cat flap will come with. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. But, it will not prevent other cats or pets from entering and you may be letting draughts in as well.

It's time to put in your cat flap. Determine the belly height of the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is sitting straight on the door and not too low. Use your spirit level to draw a template of the cat flap. Then, use a jigsaw to cut out the outline in the door. Once you're happy with the results sand down the edges and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.

Make the get more info Tools

As with any DIY jobs, it's always best to have the appropriate tools to complete the task. The main things you'll need are the cat flap itself along with a tape measure, an excellent pencil as well as a spirit level, a file, drill and a jigsaw (depending on your windows or doors).

Check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal damaged. In this scenario, it's likely that you'll need to replace the glass with a brand new piece of toughened glass.

You'll require a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines provided by the manufacture. If possible, use a template to help you mark out the dimensions of the hole you'll have to cut.

After you've made the hole, you'll need to sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This should prevent any rust or water damage from happening in here the future. You should also cover the holes in your door or window and the back of the flap to block wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry then you can put up your cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to come and go at will, installing flaps can aid. Most people can install the flap themselves. However when you plan to install it on glass or uPVC type door, you may need an expert.

Begin by studying the instructions provided with your cat flap to locate the template. This will give an idea of the location where holes need to be made for the flap in the door. Note the areas you'll need to drill into using the pencil.

After you have marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw to cut the get more info design for the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task, but you'll have to be comfortable using a saw. If you're worried about doing it yourself, there are plenty of businesses that can handle this for you at a low cost.

Then, attach the outer part to the hole of your door. It might be necessary to seal the flap before you do this in order to ensure it is waterproof and weatherproof. Then, you can put the outer portion of the cat flap on the top of the fixing bolts and tighten them all. You must test the cat flap on your cat to confirm that it is working correctly and allows them to enter and exit easily.