Fitting a Cat Flap

Fitting a Cat Flap

Blog Article

Installing a cat flap in to your home can be a big step for any pet owner. There are a variety of options for you, no matter if your cat is getting older and requires extra security, or you have kittens that require to be checked.

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

Choose the Right Door, or Window

There are many different types of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to keep your pet from getting out or in, while others have modern features such as microchips or a door entry systems. It is important to think about how it is easy to teach your cat how to use the flap before you purchase and install one.

Based on the style of your house, it's generally best to situate the cat flap near an opening or window that opens onto an area of protection in the garden, so that your cat can feel safe when entering and leaving the home. This will also enable them to get back inside if they're pursued by a pet or human who wants to hurt them.

It's possible to put the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it's not the same as fitting one into a wood door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors come in various thicknesses, which can affect the way holes are cut as well as what you're fixing to.

If you're installing the flap inside the glass of a door it is recommended that you consult a glazier who specialises in this kind of work to avoid any costly mistakes. If you're fitting the flap onto an existing wooden door you must introduce your cat first to ensure that it becomes familiar with its dimensions and shape.

Take a look at your cat's belly measurement

You'll need your cat's measurements to ensure that the cat flap you install is the perfect fit. This will help you ensure that the flap is at the correct height on your door or window, and that it's large enough to allow them to enter and exit easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers across their belly. Look for any fat pads that are squishy that may be visible around their lower back, face or legs. The padding gives your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the acrobatics cats are famous for.

You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you need. If your cat weighs at or above 5kg in weight, for example an opening of 14 x 12cm flap for your cat is advised.

Measure your window or door

This kind of cat flap, as the name suggests is made to be fitted into the door. It lets your pet move in and out at their convenience. These flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that is opened by gently pushing on either side. They are available in locking versions that provide additional security so that your cat is not able to traverse the door from outside.

A window is another popular location for a cat flap, and they're easy enough to put in, but they are usually placed high up as it's here difficult for dogs and cats to reach them otherwise. If the window is too high to be used as a cat flap, steps, ramps or purpose constructed stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it.

It is possible to insert the cat flap onto the brick wall, however it is not recommended for those who are not experienced in brickwork. This could cause the wall to weaken. Before you begin, it's important to ensure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. If there are, a hole needs to be created for them and this is something you should always seek expert advice on. It is also recommended to wear safety goggles and a dust protection mask to avoid breathing in any sawdust that is created by cutting into the walls of your home.

Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.

There are numerous cat flaps on the market, and come with various features. Certain cat flaps come with security features like microchip recognition or magnetic locks which prevent unauthorised entry. They also prevent your pet from letting friends or animals to enter get more info the house. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to block out moisture and draughts.

There are also different sizes that are available based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, while others are square or circular. Selecting the best cat flap will be dictated by the space you have available and the kind of window or door you want to attach it to.

Lastly consider the mechanism to open your cat flap will come with. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. It will not stop other pets and cats from entering the room, and you could be letting in drafts.

After you've chosen the right cat flap and measured your door or here window and window, it's now time to put it in place it. Mark the belly height of the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is straight against the door and not too low. Create a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Next, use your saw to cut out the door's outline. When you're satisfied with the results sand down the edges and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.

Make sure you have the tools ready

Like all DIY jobs, it's always best to have the proper tools to complete the task. The main things you'll need are the cat flap as well as a tape measure, a decent pencil, a spirit level, a file, drill and the jigsaw (depending on your windows or doors).

Check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to become damaged. In this scenario it's likely that you will 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 the guidelines provided by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to mark the size hole you require.

After you've made the hole, you must smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will help prevent the possibility of water damage and rust. It is also recommended to seal the holes in your door or window and the back of the flap to block rain and wind. After the sealant has dried it is time to install your new cat-flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to be able to move around as it pleases, fitting flaps can be helpful. This is a simple cat flap installation in glass doors near me process that most people can do themselves, although you may need to hire an expert if you're installing the flap on a glass door or other 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 are to be drilled for the flap to be placed in the door. Mark the areas you'll need to drill in with a pencil.

After you've marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw and more info cut out the shape for the cat flap. It is a relatively simple task, but you'll need to be comfortable using a saw. Many companies will complete this task for you at a reasonable price if you are hesitant to take on the task yourself.

Then, you can screw the inside part to the hole of your door. It may be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this in order to ensure it is waterproof and weatherproof. The outer section of your cat flap may be placed on the bolts on top, and then tacked together. You must test the cat flap on your cat to make sure that it's working properly and allows them to enter and exit easily.