Fitting a Cat Flap
Fitting a Cat Flap
Blog Article
Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is an excellent option for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and needs extra security or you have a new kitten that need to be vetted, there are plenty of options there for you.
It can be intimidating for people who aren't experts in installing the cat flap, but with right instructions it's easy. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and accuracy.
Choose the Right Door, or Window
There are a variety of cat flaps, some with locks that can be used to prevent your pet from leaving or in and others with advanced features like microchips for door entry system. However, it's important to think about how easy your cat is to teach to use the flap prior to making a purchase and fit one.
Depending on the style of your home It is recommended to put the cat flap near an opening or window that opens onto an area that is protected from the garden so that your cat can feel safe when entering and leaving the home. If possible this will also allow them a way back case they are chased by a cat or by humans who are intent on harming them.
It's possible to put a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it's not as simple as installing one into a wood door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors are available in different thicknesses, which affect how holes are cut and the material you're fixing it to.
To avoid costly mistakes to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended that you consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a door with a glass front. If you're installing the flap to an old wooden door, begin by introduction of your cat to it prior to fitting it to allow them to become familiar with its size and shape and explore it from all angles.
Find out the size of your cat's belly
To install the right cat flap that's suitable for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat's height. This will allow you to ensure that the cat flap is installed at the correct height on the window or door, and that it is large enough for him to get in and exit easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers over their belly. Look for any squishy fat pads - these may be visible around their lower back, face and limbs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline circus skills.
Alternatively, you can also consider your pet's weight as a way to determine the size of the opening you need. If your cat weighs at or over 5kg, for example that's a 14x12cm cat flap opening is advised.
Make sure you measure your door or window
Like the name suggests, this type of cat flap is designed to be affixed to the door, and offers the pet with a way to leave or enter whenever it wants. The flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and are located in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that opens by lightly pushing on either side. The flaps are available with locking options that provide additional security so that your cat is not able to enter the door from outside.
A window is a common location for a cat's flap and these are easy enough to fit, although they usually need to be set up high as it is difficult for dogs and cats to access them. If the window isn't high enough to use a cat's flap, then you can make use of ramps, steps or specially designed stairs to help the animal reach it.
A cat flap can be incorporated to a brick wall, but this is 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 cables and pipes. website If there are, then an opening must be created for them and this is something you should always seek professional advice on. It is also recommended to wear safety goggles and a dust-proof mask to avoid breathing in any of the sawdust created by cutting holes in your home's walls.
Choose the right cat flap
There are many different cat flaps on the market and they all have different features. Some are equipped with security features such as magnetic locks or microchips that stop unauthorized entry and prevent your pet from allowing pets or friends into the home. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to keep out moisture and draughts.
There's also a variety of sizes, based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular, while others are square or circular. Selecting the best cat flap is determined by the space available as well as the type of door or window you intend read more to install it on.
Lastly, think about the opening mechanism that your cat flap will have. The cheapest option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It won't prevent other animals and cats from entering the room, and you could let in draughts.
It's time to install your cat flap. Determine the belly height of the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is sitting straight on the door and not too low. Draw 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. When you are satisfied with the result finish sanding the edges and drill through the pencil marks to make holes through wall cat flap for screws.
Make sure you have the tools ready
Like any DIY tasks, it's recommended to have the proper tools to complete the task. The main things you'll need are the cat flap itself as well as a tape measure, a decent pencil as well as a spirit level, a file, drill and a jigsaw (depending on your windows or doors).
Consult the manufacturer before making any changes to a door made of composite. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal broken. In this case you'll likely have to install a new pane of toughened glass instead.
For wooden or uPVC doors, you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap with the jigsaw and follow the instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. If possible, use an outline to help determine the dimensions of the click here hole you'll will need to cut.
After you have cut the hole, you will have to sand the edges of the opening. This will help prevent future rust and water damage. You should also cover the holes in your door or window and the side of the flap to keep out wind and rain. After 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 pleases. This is a straightforward process that most people can do themselves, although you will likely need to hire an expert for installing the flap in the form of a glass door or cat flap fitters near me another kind of uPVC door.
Begin by studying the instructions provided with the flap to locate the template drawing. This will give you an idea of where holes for the flap will need to be drilled in the door. Then, mark the places in which you will have to drill using a pencil.
After you've marked the door's opening, use a jigsaw to cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task, but you'll need to be comfortable with the jigsaw. If you are worried about doing this yourself, there are plenty of companies that can complete this for you at a low cost.
Next, you will need to screw the inner part of the flap onto the hole in your door. You may need to seal it prior to making this move to ensure it is weather and water resistant. The outer part of your cat flap could be placed on the bolts on top, and then tacked together. It is recommended that you test the flap using your cat to make sure that it works correctly and that they are able to move easily through it.