Fitting a Cat Flap

Fitting a Cat Flap

Blog Article

Installing a cat flap in your home is a fantastic step for any pet owner. If your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have kittens who require a vet check There are plenty of options there for you.

It can be difficult for non-professionals to install the cat flap, but with proper guidelines, it's easy. The most important thing is planning, preparation and accuracy.

Select the Right Door or Window

There are a variety of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to prevent your pet from getting out or in and others with modern features such as microchips or a door entry system. It is important to consider how easy it is for your cat to train to use the flap prior to making a purchase and install one.

It is recommended to put the cat flap, depending on the design of your home, in the form of a window that opens to a garden that is sheltered. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering or leaving your home. If you can this will also allow them a route back in should they be chased by a cat or by a human intent to harm them.

It's possible to put a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it's not as simple as installing one in a wood door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors come in various thicknesses, which can affect how holes are cut and the material you're fixing it into.

If you're installing the flap on the glass of a door, it's recommended that you find a glazier who is experienced in this type of work to avoid costly errors. If you're fitting the flap on an old wooden door, begin by introducing your cat to it before you fit it so that they can get used to its shape and size, and explore it from every angle.

Take a look at your cat's belly measurement

You'll need the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap you choose to install is the perfect fit. This will enable you to make sure that the flap is placed at the correct height on the door or window, and that it's big enough for him to get in and out easily.

To do this, lay your pet on their back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Look for any squishy fat pads - these could be visible on their lower back, face, and legs. The extra padding offers your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics felines are famous for.

You can also take into account the weight of your pet to determine how large opening you require. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg, for example the suggested cat flap opening size is 14x12cm.

Measure Your Door or Window

This kind of cat flap, as the name suggests is designed to be affixed to the door. It allows your pet to be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. They are usually made of plastic or aluminium and simply are placed in the middle of the door. They come with a two-way swinging door that opens by pushing lightly on either side. They are available in locking versions that provide additional security so that your cat is not able to enter the door from outside.

A window is another common location for a cat flap and these are easy enough to put in, but they are usually located high enough as it's difficult for dogs and cats to access them. If the window is not sufficient to accommodate a cat's flap, then you can opt for ramps, steps, or stairs that are specially designed to help the animal reach it.

It is possible to install a cat flap into brick walls, however it is not recommended for people who aren't familiar with the masonry industry. This could cause the wall to weaken. Before you begin, it's important to make sure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. You should always consult an expert when you need website to create a hole for pipes or cables. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask will help you avoid inhaling the sawdust created when cutting into your walls.

Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.

There are a variety of cat flaps available and all of them offer various features. Some are equipped with security features such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition to stop unauthorized entry and prevent your pet from allowing pets or friends into the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to keep out the elements of moisture and draughts.

There is also a choice of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are available in rectangular shapes, whereas others are square or circular. Selecting the best cat flap is determined by the space you have available and the kind of read more door or window you are fitting it to.

Also, think about the mechanism for opening your cat flap will have. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is one option and is usually the cheapest. It won't stop other cats and pets from entering the room, and you could be letting in drafts.

Once you have selected the right cat flap and measured your windows or doors, it's time to fit it. Mark the belly height of the door using a ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is straight on the door and not too low. Utilize your spirit level to draw a template for the flap for cats. Then, using a saw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you are check here satisfied with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil markings to make holes for screws.

Make the Tools

As with all DIY tasks, it's advisable to make sure you have the proper tools to complete the task. You'll require the cat flap, tape measure and pencil along with a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the kind of window or door.

If you're installing in a composite door, consult with the manufacturer prior to making any changes because this could cause the warranty to be invalidated or break the weathertight seal. In this instance, you'll probably have to install an additional pane of toughened glass instead.

For wooden or uPVC doors will require cutting out the shape of your cat flap with the Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. If you can, use an outline to help identify the size of the hole you'll will need to cut.

After you've cut the hole, you will need to sand the edges of the opening. This will prevent any future water damage or rust. Also, you should apply any sealant you require to the back of the cat flap and to the holes in the window or door to keep check here out rain and wind. When the sealant has dried then you're now ready to put in your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

Installing a flap allows your cat to move around whenever it wants. The majority of people can install the flap on their own. However when you plan to put it in the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you may require an expert.

Look at the instructions that came with the cat flap. There is an illustration of the template. This will provide you with an idea of where the more info holes for the flap will need to be drilled into the door. Mark the areas you'll need to drill in using the pencil.

Once you have marked out the door's area, use a jigsaw to cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple job however, you'll need to be comfortable using a jigsaw. If you're worried about doing this yourself, there are many companies that can complete this for you at a very low cost.

Next, you will need to attach the interior part of the flap onto the hole in your door. It may be necessary to seal the flap before you do this to ensure it is waterproof and weatherproof. The outer section of your cat flap could be placed on the bolts' tops and then tacked together. You should test the flap on your cat to confirm that it's working properly and allows them to exit and enter easily.