Fitting a Cat Flap

Fitting a Cat Flap

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Getting a cat flap fitted into your home could be a huge step for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and needs extra security or you have new kittens that need to be vetted there are plenty of options there for you.

It can be a bit daunting for non-professionals to install a cat flap, but with the proper guidelines, it's easy. Planning, preparation and precision are the keys.

Select the Right Door or Windows

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, while others have modern features such as microchips or a door entry system. It is important to think about how easy it will be to train your cat to use the flap before you purchase and install one.

It is best to place the cat flap, depending on the style of your home, inside the form of a window that opens to an area of the garden that is protected. This will help your cat feel secure when entering and leaving your home. If possible this will also allow them a way back should they be chased by a cat or by a human intent on harming them.

It's possible to put a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as simple as installing one in a wood door. It's because uPVC or composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses. This can affect the method of cutting holes, and the type of door you can fix 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 kind of work to avoid any costly errors. If you're installing the flap to an existing wooden door you must introduce your cat to it first to ensure that it becomes familiar with its size and shape.

Find out the size of your cat's belly

You'll need the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you put in is the perfect fit. This will help you make sure that the flap is placed at the right height for the door or window and also that it's large enough to allow him to enter and leave easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers over their belly. Look for any fat pads that are squishy - these might be visible around their lower back, face, and the limbs. The extra padding offers your pet safety 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 require. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg in weight, for example that's a 14x12cm flap for the cat is recommended.

Make sure you measure your door or window

Like the name suggests this kind of cat flap is made to be attached to a door and provides an opportunity for your pet to go in or out as it pleases. These flaps are made of plastic or aluminum and are placed in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that can be opened by lightly pushing on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps, which provide added security so your cat can't simply traverse through the door from outside.

A window is another popular location for a cat flap, and they are simple enough to install, though they are usually placed high up as it's difficult for cats and dogs to reach them otherwise. If the window is not high enough to use a cat's flap, you can make use of ramps, steps or specially designed stairs to assist the animal in reaching it.

Cat flaps can also be fitted into a brick wall but this is not recommended unless you're experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the wall's structure. It is important to make sure there aren't any cables and pipes within the wall before you start. If there are, there must be a hole made for them. This is something that you should always seek professional advice on. It is also recommended to wear protective goggles and a dust protection mask to avoid inhaling any sawdust that is created by cutting holes in the walls of your home.

Select the Right Cat Flap

There are many different cat flaps on the market and all of them offer various features. Some are equipped with security features such as magnetic locks or microchips that stop unauthorized entry and restrict your pet from letting pets or friends into the house. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to keep out the get more info elements of moisture and draughts.

There are also different sizes available depending on the breed and size of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are circular or square. Selecting the best cat flap will be determined by the space you have available as well as the type of door or window you intend to install it on.

Also think about the mechanism for opening your cat flap will have. A simple aluminium or plastic swing-out door is an choice and is typically the cheapest. However, it won't stop other pets or cats from entering your home and you could let draughts in as well.

After you've chosen the right cat flap and measured your windows or doors then it's time to install it. Start by marking the belly's height on the door click here using your ruler. Make use of a spirit-level to make sure that the line is not too low and is more info straight on the door. Use your spirit level to draw a template of the flap for cats. Next, use your saw to cut out the door's outline. When you're satisfied with the result, sand the edges and then drill through the pencil lines to make holes for the screws.

Make the Tools

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

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

You'll need an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines given by the manufacturer. Use get more info a template to mark the size hole you'll need.

After you've cut the required hole, you'll need to sand down the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop future rust and water damage. 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, you're ready to install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to be able to come and go whenever it wants, installing flaps can be helpful. The majority of people can install the flap themselves. However when you plan to put it in the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you might need a professional.

Start by looking at the instructions that come with your cat cat flap installers near me flap to locate the template drawing. This will give you an idea of the location where holes need to be drilled to install the flap in the door. Then, mark the places in which you will have to drill using pencil.

After you have marked the door on your door, use the jigsaw to cut the the cat flap. This is a relatively easy task, but you will have to be comfortable using the jigsaw. Many companies will complete this for you at a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to do it yourself.

Then, you can screw the inside part to the hole in your door. It might be necessary to seal the flap before you do this in order to ensure it is weatherproof and watertight. The outer section of your cat flap could be placed on the bolts on top, and then tightened together. It is recommended to test the flap using your cat to ensure that it functions properly and that they can enter and leave easily through it.