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. If your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have a new kitten that require a thorough screening there are plenty of options there for you.

It can be intimidating for those who aren't professionals to put in an animal flap, but with the proper instructions, it's simple. Planning, preparation and precision are the keys.

Choose the Right Door or Window

There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, including some with locks that can be used to prevent your pet from leaving or inside, and others that have high tech features like microchip door entry systems. It's important to think about how it is easy to teach your cat how to use the flap, before you buy and install one.

It's best to place 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 help your cat feel secure when entering and leaving your home. If you can this will also allow them a route back in should they be chased by another cat or by humans who are intent to harm them.

It is possible to install the cat flap on the form of a uPVC door or glass window however, it's not as straightforward as fitting one into the door made of wood. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses, and this can impact the way holes are cut as well as what you're fixing to.

To avoid costly mistakes It is recommended that you consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If you're installing the flap on a wooden door, start by the cat with it prior to fitting it, so that they become familiar with its size and shape and explore it from all angles.

Take a look at your cat's belly measurement

You'll need the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap you put in is a good fit. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is at the correct height on your door or window, and that it's big enough for them to enter and out easily.

To do this, place your pet on their back and gently rub your fingers along their belly. Look for any fat pads that are squishy - these might be visible around their lower back, face and limbs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline acrobatics.

Alternatively, you can also make use of your pet's weight to determine the size of an opening you require. If your cat weighs 5Kg, for example the suggested cat flap size is 14 x 12cm.

Measure your windows or doors

The name implies this kind of cat flap is made to be attached to a door and provides the pet with a way to enter or leave as it pleases. These flaps are constructed of aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door. They have a two-way swinging opening that can be opened by gently pressing on either side. They can be locked which provide extra security which means that your cat can't enter the door from outside.

A window is a common place to put a cat flap and these are easy enough to install, website though they usually need to be located high enough as it's difficult for cats and dogs to reach them otherwise. If the window is too high for a cat flap then ramps, steps, or specially built stairs can be utilized to help the animal access it.

It is possible to install an egress into brick walls, however it is not recommended for people who are not experienced in the masonry industry. This could cause the wall to weaken. It is essential to ensure that there aren't any cables and pipes inside composite door cat flap the wall before you start. It is recommended to consult an expert when you need to make a hole for pipes and cables. It is also recommended to wear safety goggles and a dust-proof mask to avoid breathing in any sawdust that is created by cutting through the walls of your house.

Choose the here Cat Flap that is right for you.

There are numerous cat flaps available on the market, and they have different features. Some cat flaps have security features such as magnetic locks or microchips which prevent unauthorised entry. They also stop your pet from allowing friends or other animals into the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to keep out draughts and moisture.

There are different sizes to choose from based on the breed and size of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular while others are square or circular. The best type of cat flap is determined by the space you have available and the type of 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 a good option and is usually the least expensive. It won't prevent other pets and cats from entering the room, and you could be letting in drafts.

It's time to install your cat flap. Make a mark on the belly of the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is exactly on the door and not too low. Utilize your spirit level to draw a sketch of the cat flap. Next, use your jigsaw to cut out the outline of the door. When you're satisfied with the results sand down the edges and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for screws.

Make the Tools

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

Consult the manufacturer before making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal to become broken. In this instance it's likely you'll need to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.

For wooden or uPVC doors you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap with the Jigsaw. Follow more info the directions given by the manufacturer. If possible, use an outline to help identify the size of the hole you have to cut.

After you've made the hole, you should then sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will help prevent any future water damage or rust. Also, you should apply any sealant that is needed to the back of the cat flap, and to the holes in the window or door to keep out rain and wind. Once the sealant has dried, you can install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

Installing a flap allows your cat to go and come whenever it wants. Most people can install the flap themselves. However should you wish to install it on the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you might need a professional.

Check out the directions included with the cat flap. You will find a template drawing. This will give an idea of where holes need to be drilled for the flap on the door. Mark the areas you'll have to drill using the pencil.

After you've marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw and cut out the shape for the cat flap. It's a relatively easy task however you'll need be comfortable with the jigsaw. Numerous companies will perform this task for you at a reasonable cost in case you're hesitant to tackle it yourself.

Then, attach the outer part to the hole of your door. It is possible to seal the flap before you do this in order to ensure it is weatherproof and watertight. You can then place the outer part of the cat flap on top of the fixing bolts, and tighten them all. It is recommended to test the cat flap with your cat to ensure that it works correctly and that they can get in and out of it.