Fitting a Cat Flap
Fitting a Cat Flap
Blog Article
Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is a fantastic step for any pet owner. If your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have kittens who require a vet check There are plenty of options there to choose from.
It can be intimidating for non-professionals to install an animal flap, but with the right instructions it's easy. The key is preparation, planning and accuracy.
Choose the Right Door or Windows
There are a variety of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to keep 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.
Depending on the design of your home, it's usually best to put the cat flap in a window or door that opens onto an area of protection in the garden so your cat is secure when entering and leaving the home. This will also allow them to go back inside if they are chased by another animal or human beings who wish to hurt them.
It's possible to install a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it's not as easy as putting one in a wood door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses, which affect the way holes are cut and what you're fixing into.
If you're installing the flap in glass doors it is recommended to find a glazier who is experienced in this kind of work to avoid any costly mistakes. If you're fitting the flap onto an existing wooden door it is recommended that you introduce your cat to it at first so that it can become familiar with its size and shape.
Find out the size of your cat's belly
To install an appropriate cat flap that is suitable for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's height. This will help you ensure that the flap is at the right height for your window or door and that it's big enough for them to enter and exit easily.
To do this, put your pet on their back and gently rub your fingers along their belly. Check for any squishy fat pads which could be visible on their lower back, face and the limbs. The padding provides your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the acrobatics cats are famous for.
Alternatively, you can also consider your pet's weight as a way to gauge how big an opening you require. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg in weight for instance that's a 14x12cm flap for your cat is advised.
Take a measurement of your door or window
This type of cat flap, as its name suggests, is designed to be installed into the door. It allows your pet to enter and exit at its convenience. They are typically made of aluminum or plastic and sit in the centre of the door with the possibility of a swinging door that opens by pressing lightly on either side. They are available with locking options that offer added security, which means that your cat can't walk through the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also frequently used on windows. They are easy to be installed, but they have to be installed at a high level as cats and dogs have a difficult time to reach them. If the window isn't sufficient in height to be used as a cat's flap, you can use steps, ramps or stairs that are specially designed to aid the animal in getting to it.
A cat flap can also be fitted into a brick wall, however this is not recommended unless skilled in masonry work as it could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it is important to ensure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. If there are, there must be a hole created for them and this is something you should always seek professional advice on. It is also recommended to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust mask to avoid inhaling any of the sawdust created by cutting holes in the walls of your home.
Select the Cat Flap that is Right for get more info You.
There are numerous cat flaps available and they all have different features. Certain cat flaps come with security features, such as microchip recognition or magnetic locks that prevent unauthorized entry. They also keep your pet from letting guests or other animals into the house. Some have weatherproof seals and insulation to block out the elements and keep out drafts.
There is also a choice of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, whereas others are square or circular. Choosing the right type of cat flap will be dictated by the space you have available as well as the type of window or door you intend to install it on.
The last thing to do is consider the type of opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is an option and is usually the least expensive. It will not stop other cats and pets from entering however, and you could be letting in draughts.
It's time to put in your cat flap. Determine the belly height 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. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, using your jigsaw, cut out the outline of the door. When you are satisfied with the result finish sanding the edges and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.
Make sure you have the tools ready
Like all DIY tasks, it's advisable to make sure you have the appropriate tools to complete the task. You'll require the cat flap along with an eraser and tape measure as well as a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the type of window or door.
Contact the manufacturer prior to making any modifications to a composite door. This read more could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal to be broken. In this case it's likely that you'll have to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass.
You'll need an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines given by the manufacturer. Use a click here template if possible to mark out the size hole you'll need.
After you've cut the required hole, you should then sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This should prevent any rust or water damage from happening in the future. It is get more info also recommended to cover the holes in your window or door and the side of the flap to block wind and rain. Once the sealant has dried then you can put up your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to move around as it pleases, fitting flaps can be helpful. This is a simple process that most people can accomplish on their own, but you will likely require the help of an expert for installing the flap on a glass door or other type of uPVC door.
Look at the instructions included with the cat flap. There is a template drawing. This will provide you with an idea of where the holes for the flap will need to be drilled in the door. Then, mark the areas where you have to drill using a pencil.
After you've marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw to cut the design for the cat flap. This is a relatively easy task, but you will require a good understanding of a Jigsaw. If you're worried about doing it yourself, there are plenty of companies that can complete this for you at a low cost.
The next step is to attach the inside of the cat flap to the door's hole. It may be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this to keep it waterproof and weatherproof. The outer section of your cat flap may be placed on the bolts' tops and then securing them. You should test the cat flap on how much to install a cat flap your cat to confirm that it is working correctly and that it allows the cat to go in and out easily.