Fitting a Cat Flap

Fitting a Cat Flap

Blog Article

Installing a cat flap in your home is a great option for any pet owner. There are many options available to you, regardless of whether your cat is older and requires additional security or if you have kittens that need to be vetted.

Installing a cat flap can be a daunting task for novices, but with the right instructions, it's not difficult to accomplish. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the most important factors.

Choose the Right Door or Window

There are many different types of cat flaps, some with locks that can be used to stop your pet from going out or inside, and others that have high tech features like microchip door entry systems. It is important to consider the ease of your cat to teach to use the flap prior to making a purchase and fit one.

Based on the style of your home It is recommended to put the cat flap near a window or door that opens to a sheltered area of the garden so that your cat will feel secure entering and leaving the home. If possible this will also allow them a way back should they be chased by a cat or by a human intent to hurt them.

It's possible to put a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it's not as simple as installing one on a wooden door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors are available in different thicknesses, which affect how holes are cut and what you're fixing to.

To avoid costly mistakes It is recommended that you consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a door with a glass front. If you're fitting the flap into a wooden door it is recommended that you introduce your cat to it at first to ensure that it becomes familiar with its size and shape.

Take a look at your cat's belly measurement

It is important to know the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap you put in is a good fit. This will ensure that the flap is the correct height on your door or window, and that it's large enough for them to enter and out easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Look for a fat pad that is squishy around the lower back, face or legs. The padding provides your pet safety and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics felines are famous for.

Alternatively, you can also use your pet's weight to determine the size of an opening you need. If your cat weighs 5kg, for instance the suggested cat flap size is 14x12cm.

Make sure you measure your door or window

This kind of cat flap, as its name suggests is made to be fitted into the door. It allows your pet to be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. They are typically made of aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door with an open door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. They are available in locking versions that provide additional security so your cat cannot simply enter the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also frequently employed in windows. They can be easily installed, however they have to be placed at a high level as cats and dogs have a difficult time to reach them. If the window is not sufficient more info in height to be used as a cat's flap, you can make use of ramps, steps or stairs that are specially designed to assist the animal in reaching it.

It is possible to insert a cat flap into a brickwall, but it is not recommended for people who aren't familiar with masonry. This could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's important to ensure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. If there are, there more info must be a hole made for them. This is something that you should always seek expert advice on. It is also recommended to wear protective goggles and a dust-proof mask to avoid breathing in any of the sawdust created by cutting through the walls of your website house.

Choose the right cat flap

There are numerous cat flaps that are available on the market, and have different features. Some have security options such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry and also stop your pet allowing pets or friends into the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals that keep out draughts and moisture.

There is also a choice of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular, while others are square or circular. Selecting the best cat flap will be determined by the space available and the kind of door or window you intend to install it on.

Also consider the mechanism to open your cat flap is likely to have. A simple aluminum or plastic swing-out door is a good alternative and is usually the least expensive. However, 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. Start by marking the height of the belly on the door using your 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 of the flap for cats. Next, use your Jigsaw to cut the outline in the door. Once you're happy with the result, sand the edges and drill through the pencil lines to create holes for the screws.

Make the Tools

Like all DIY jobs, it's always best to have the appropriate tools for the job. You'll need a cat flap along with tape measure and pencil, a spirit-level, a drill and a jigsaw depending on the kind of window or door.

If you're installing a composite door, consult with the manufacturer prior to making any changes, as this may invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this scenario you'll likely need to fit a new pane of toughened glass instead.

You'll need a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines provided by the manufacture. Use a template if possible to mark out the size hole you'll require.

After you've cut the hole, you will need to sand the edges of the opening. This should prevent any water damage or rust from occurring in the future. You should also read more cover the holes in your window or door and the back of the flap to block rain and wind. When the sealant has dried and dry, you can install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to be able to come and go at will, installing flaps can aid. The majority of people can install the flap on their own. However when you plan to put it in glass or uPVC type door, you may require an expert.

Start by looking at the instructions included with the flap to locate the template. This will give you an idea of where the holes will be drilled to install the flap to be placed in the door. Mark the areas where you must drill using the pencil.

After you have marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw to cut the the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task however you'll need be comfortable using the saw. Many companies will do this for you at a reasonable price If you're not sure how to do it yourself.

Then, attach the outer part of the door to the hole in your door. It is possible to seal the flap before you do this to ensure it is weatherproof and watertight. The outside of your cat flap can be placed on the bolts' tops and check here then tacked together. You must test the cat flap on your cat to confirm that it's working properly and that it allows the cat to go in and out easily.