Fitting a Cat Flap

Fitting a Cat Flap

Blog Article

Getting a cat flap fitted inside your home can be a major step for any pet owner. There are numerous options for you, whether your cat is getting older and requires extra security or you have kittens who need to be checked.

Installing a cat flap can be daunting for non-professionals but with the right instructions, it's easy to do. Preparation, planning and precision are the most important factors.

Choose the Right Door, or Window

There are a variety of cat flaps, some with locks that can be used to stop your pet from going out or in and others with high tech features like microchip door entry system. However, it's important to consider how easy it is for your cat to train to use the flap prior to making a purchase and fit one.

It is recommended to put the cat flap, based on the design of your home, inside a window that opens into a garden that is sheltered. This will help your cat feel safe when entering or leaving your home. This will also allow them to go back inside if they're pursued by a pet or human who wants to harm them.

It's possible to install a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't the same as fitting one on a wooden door. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in a variety of thicknesses. This can impact the way holes are cut, and the type of door you can fix to.

If you're installing the flap in the glass of a door it is recommended to seek out a glazier that is skilled in this type of work to avoid costly errors. If you're fitting the flap onto the door made of wood it is recommended that you introduce your cat first to make sure it is familiar with its size and shape.

Find out the size of your cat's belly

In order to install the right cat flap that's a good fit for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat. 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 exit with ease.

Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers across their belly. Look for a fat pad that is squishy around the lower back or face, or around the legs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline circus skills.

Alternatively, you can also use your pet's weight to determine the size of the opening you require. If your cat is at or over 5kg, for example that's a 14x12cm flap for the cat is advised.

Measure your window or door

This kind of cat flap, as the name suggests, is designed to be affixed to a door. It allows your pet to move in and out at their convenience. They are usually made from plastic or aluminium and simply are placed in the middle of the door. They have an open door that is opened by pushing lightly on either side. The flaps can be locked which provide extra security which means that your cat can't enter the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also often used on windows. They can be easily installed, but they have to be installed at a high level as cats and dogs have a difficult time to get them. If the window is too high to be used as a cat flap, steps, ramps or purpose built stairs can be used to aid the animal in accessing it.

A cat flap could be installed into a brick wall but it is not recommended unless you're experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the wall's structure. It's important to check that there aren't any cables or pipes in the wall prior to you start. If there are, then an opening must be created for them and this is something you should always seek professional advice on. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask can ensure that you don't breathe in the sawdust created when cutting into your walls.

Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.

There are numerous cat flaps available more info and each one comes with different features. Some are equipped with security features like magnetic locks or microchip recognition to block entry by unauthorized persons and restrict your pet from letting pets or friends into the home. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to block out draughts and moisture.

There is also a choice of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, while others are circular or square. The kind of cat flap you pick will depend on the size of the opening and the kind of door or window you're fitting it to.

Last but not least, take into consideration the kind of opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. A simple aluminum or plastic swing-out door is one option and is usually the cheapest. However, it will not keep other animals or cats from gaining access and you could let draughts through too.

After you've chosen the appropriate cat flap and measured the door or window and window, it's now time to put it in place it. Determine the belly height of the door using your website ruler. Use a spirit-level to make sure that the line isn't too low and is straight on the door. Create a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, using the Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. Once you are satisfied with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.

Make the Tools

It is essential to have the right tools for undertaking any DIY project. The most important things you'll require are the cat flap, a tape measure and a good pencil as well as a spirit level, drill, file, and a jigsaw (depending on your window or door type).

If you're installing a composite door, it is recommended to consult with the manufacturer before making any changes, as this may affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this instance you'll likely have to install an entirely new pane of toughened glass instead.

You'll require an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. Use a template to mark out the size hole you'll require.

After you have cut the hole, you will have to sand the edges get more info of the opening. This will help prevent future rust and water damage. It is also recommended to seal the holes in your window or door and the back of the cat flap to prevent wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry then you're now ready to put in your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to be able to move around as it pleases, fitting flaps can aid. This is a simple process that most people can complete on their own, but you'll likely need to hire an expert if you're installing the flap in the form of a glass door or another kind of uPVC door.

Take a look at the instructions included with your cat flap. You will find an illustration of the template. This will give you an idea of where the holes for the flap need to be made in the door. Then, mark the areas where you need to drill with pencil.

After you've marked the door's opening, use a jigsaw to cut out the design of the click here cat flap. This is a relatively simple task however, you'll need to be comfortable with a jigsaw. Many companies will do this task for you at a reasonable price if you are hesitant to do it yourself.

Then, here attach the outer part to the hole in your door. It might be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this in order to keep it weatherproof and watertight. Then, you can put the outer portion of the cat flap on top of the fixing bolts, and tighten the bolts all together. It is recommended that you test the cat flap with your cat to make sure that it functions properly and that they are able to get in and out of it.