Fitting a Cat Flap

Fitting a Cat Flap

Blog Article

Installing a cat flap your home is an excellent step for any pet owner. There are numerous options to you, regardless of whether your cat is getting older and requires extra security or if you have kittens who need to be checked.

Installing a cat flap may be daunting for non-professionals however, with the proper instructions, it's easy to complete. The key is preparation, planning and precision.

Select the Right Door, or Windows

There are a variety of cat flaps to choose from that come with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from leaving or entering) and others that have high-tech features like microchip door entry systems. However, it's important to think about how easy it is for your cat to teach to use the flap prior to making a purchase and install one.

Depending on the design of your house It is recommended to put the cat flap inside an opening or window that opens to a sheltered area of the garden so your cat is secure when entering and leaving the home. If possible, this will also give them a route back in should they get pursued by a different cat or by a human intent on harming them.

It is possible to install a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't the same as fitting one in a wood door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses, and this can impact how holes are cut and the materials you're fixing them to.

If you're installing the flap inside glass doors it is recommended to seek out a glazier that is skilled in such work to avoid costly errors. If you're installing the flap into the door made of wood it is recommended that you introduce your cat to it at first to ensure that it becomes familiar with its size and shape.

Find out the size of your cat's belly

It is important to know the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you put in is the perfect fit. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is at the right height for your door or window, and that it's wide enough to allow them to enter and exit easily.

To do this, place your pet on their back and run your fingers gently along their belly. Feel for any fat pads that are squishy - these could be visible on their lower back, face and limbs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline Acrobatics.

Alternately, you could consider your pet's weight as a way to determine the size of the opening you need. If your cat is at or over 5kg for instance that's a 14x12cm flap for the cat is recommended.

Take a measurement of your door or window

The name implies this kind of cat flap is designed to be fixed into an opening and provide the pet with a way to enter or leave as it pleases. They are usually made from plastic or aluminium and simply are placed in the middle of the door. They come with a two-way swinging door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. These flaps are available in locking versions which provide extra security so your cat cannot simply walk through the door from outside.

Cat flaps are website also frequently used on windows. They can be easily installed, but they need to be placed at a high level as cats and dogs have a difficult time to reach them. If the window is too high for a cat flap, then ramps, steps, or specially built stairs can be used to help the animal access it.

Cat flaps can be incorporated to a brick wall, but this is get more info not recommended unless you are experienced 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 pipes and cables. If they are, an opening must be created for them and this is something that you should always seek professional advice on. It's also advisable to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust protection mask to avoid inhaling any of the sawdust created by cutting through the walls of your home.

Select the Right Cat Flap

There are a variety of cat flaps available and all of them offer various features. Some have security options such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition to prevent unauthorized entry and also stop your pet allowing guests or other animals to enter the home. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to block out draughts and moisture.

There's also a variety of sizes, based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are available in rectangular shapes, while others are square or circular. The type of cat flap you pick will depend on the size of the opening and the type of window or door you're fixing more info it to.

Also think about the mechanism to open your cat flap will come with. A simple aluminum or plastic swing-out door is a good alternative and is usually the least expensive. But, it will not prevent other cats or pets from entering and you may let draughts through too.

It's time to put in your cat flap. Begin by marking the belly height on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is straight against the door and not too low. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Next, use your jigsaw to cut out the outline of the door. Once you're happy with the results sand down the edges and then drill through the pencil lines to make holes for the screws.

Prepare the Tools

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

Contact the manufacturer prior to making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal broken. In this scenario it's likely you'll have 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 and follow the instructions given by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to mark the size hole you require.

After you've cut the hole, you'll need to sand the edges of the opening. This will stop future rust and water damage. Finally, you should apply any sealant you require to the back of the cat flap, and to the cat flap glass door installation near me holes in the door or window to keep out rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry it is time to install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to go and come as it pleases, fitting flaps can be helpful. Most people can put in the flap by themselves. However should you wish to install it on glass or uPVC type door, you may require an expert.

Begin by studying the instructions provided with the flap to locate the drawing template. This will provide you with an idea of where holes for the flap have to be drilled in the door. Mark the areas you'll have to drill with a pencil.

After you have mapped out the door's area and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task, but you'll need to be comfortable using a jigsaw. Numerous companies will perform this work for you for a reasonable price If you're not sure how to tackle it yourself.

Then, attach the outer part of the door to the hole in your door. It might be necessary to seal the flap before you do this, in order to ensure it is waterproof and weatherproof. You can then put the outer section of the cat flap on top of the fixing bolts and tighten them all. It is recommended to test the flap with your here cat to ensure that it is working properly and that they can move easily through it.