Fitting a Cat Flap

Fitting a Cat Flap

Blog Article

Getting a cat flap fitted in to your home can be a huge step for any pet owner. There are many options available for you, no matter if your cat is old and requires additional security or if you have kittens that need to be examined.

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

Select the Right Door or Window

There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, including some with locks that can be used to keep your pet from going out or in, while others have modern features such as microchips or a door entry systems. But, it's important to think about how easy it is for 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 style of your home, in a window that opens into a sheltered garden area. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering and leaving your home. This will also allow them to return inside if they're chased by another animal or humans who want to hurt them.

It is possible to install a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it's not as easy as putting one on a wooden door. This is because uPVC or composite doors come in various thicknesses. This could affect the method of cutting holes, and the material you put to.

If you're installing the flap inside 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 errors. If you're fitting the flap on a wooden door, start by introduction of your cat to it before you fit it, so that they get used to its shape and size, and explore it from every angle.

Measure Your Cat's Belly

In order to install an appropriate cat flap that is suitable for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat's height. This will help you ensure that the flap is the correct height on your door or window, and that it's wide enough to allow them to get in and exit easily.

To do this, put your pet on their back and run your fingers gently across their belly. Check for any fat pads that are squishy - these could be visible on their lower back, face, and the limbs. The extra padding offers your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the acrobatics cats are famous for.

You can also use the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you need. If your cat is up to 5Kg in weight, for example an opening of 14 x 12cm flap for the cat is advised.

Make sure you measure your door or window

The name implies, this type of cat flap is made to be attached to a door and provides the pet with a way to go in or out as it pleases. These flaps are constructed of aluminum or plastic and sit in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that opens by gently pushing on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps that provide added security so your cat isn't able to enter the door from the outside.

A window is a common location for a cat flap, and they are simple enough to fit, although they are usually located high enough as it's difficult for dogs and cats to access them. If the window is too high to be used as a cat flap, then ramps, steps or specially built stairs can be utilized to assist the animal get access to it.

A cat flap could be installed into a brick wall, however it is not recommended unless you're experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the structure of the wall. It's important to check that there aren't any cables or pipes inside the wall before you start. Always consult an expert if you have to cut a hole in the wall for cables and pipes. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask will ensure that you don't breathe in the sawdust created when you cut into your walls.

Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.

There are many cat flaps that are available on the market, and come with different features. Some are equipped with security features like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry and also prevent your pet from allowing guests or other animals to enter the home. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to keep out water and drafts.

There's also a variety of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are available in rectangular shapes, while others are square or circular. The kind of cat flap you pick will depend on the size of the opening and the type of window or door you're installing it to.

The last thing to do is take into consideration the read more kind of opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It will not stop other animals and cats from entering the room, and you could let get more info in draughts.

It's time to install your cat flap. Determine the belly height of the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is sitting straight against the door and not too low. Utilize your spirit level to draw a template of the flap for cats. Then, using a Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. When you're happy with the result, sand the edges and then drill through the pencil lines to create holes for the screws.

Make the Tools

It's important to have the right tools available when doing any DIY project. The main things you'll need are the cat flap itself as well as a tape measure, a good pencil as well as a spirit level, drill, file, and a Jigsaw (depending on your window or door type).

Check with the manufacturer prior to making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to become broken. In this case, you'll probably need to fit an entirely new pane of toughened glass instead.

For wooden or uPVC doors you'll need to cut out the shape of your cat flap with the Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. If possible, you can use an example to identify the dimensions of the hole you'll have to cut.

After you've cut the required hole, you should then sand down the edges of the opening to smooth them. This should prevent any water damage or rust from happening in the near future. You should also seal the holes in your window or door and the back of the flap to prevent rain and wind. Once the sealant has dried it is time to install your cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to be able to move around whenever it wants, installing a flap can help. Most people can put in the flap themselves. However should you wish to install it in glass or uPVC type door, you may need a professional.

Look at the instructions that came click here with your cat flap. There is a drawing of the template. This will give an idea of where the holes are to be drilled to install the flap to be placed in the door. Mark the areas you will have to click here drill using a pencil.

Once you have marked out the area in cat flap in upvc door cost your door, use a jigsaw to cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task, but you'll require a good understanding of a jigsaw. If you are concerned about doing this yourself, there are plenty of businesses that can handle this for you at a minimal cost.

Then, you can screw the inside part of the door to the hole in your door. It is possible to seal the flap prior to you do this in order to ensure it is weatherproof and watertight. The outer part of your cat flap can be placed on top of the bolts, and then tightened together. It is recommended to test the cat flap with your cat to make sure that it works correctly and that they are able to get in and out of it.