Fitting a Cat Flap

Fitting a Cat Flap

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Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is a great option for any pet owner. If your cat is old and needs extra security or you have kittens that require a thorough screening there are plenty of options out there to choose from.

Installing a cat flap can be daunting for non-professionals however, with the proper instructions, it's not difficult to complete. The most important thing is planning, preparation and precision.

Select the Right Door or Windows

There are a wide variety of cat flaps to choose from, some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from leaving or coming in) and others with advanced features such as microchip door entry systems. It's important to think about how it is easy to teach your cat to use the flap, before you buy and install one.

Based on the style of your house It is recommended to place the cat flap near an opening or window that opens out into an area of protection in the garden so that your cat is secure when entering and leaving the home. If possible it will also provide them a route back in should they get pursued by a different cat or by a human intent on harming them.

It's possible to put the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as easy as putting one in a wood door. This is because uPVC and composite doors come in different thicknesses, and this can impact the way holes are cut and the material you're fixing it into.

If you're installing the flap inside the glass of a door it is recommended to seek out a glazier that is skilled in such work to avoid costly errors. If you are fitting the flap onto an existing wooden door it is recommended that you introduce your cat to it at first to ensure that it becomes familiar with its dimensions and shape.

Find out the size of your cat's belly

It is important to know the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap you put in is a good fit. This will help you ensure that the cat flap is placed at the right height on the window or door, and that it is large enough for him to get in and exit easily.

To do this, put your pet on their back and run your fingers gently across their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back, face or limbs. The extra padding offers your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the acrobatics cats are famous for.

You can also take into account the weight of your pet to determine how large opening you require. If your cat weighs up to 5kg, for instance the suggested flap size is 14x12cm.

Measure your window or door

Like the name suggests, this type of cat flap is made to be attached to the door, and offers the pet with a way to go in or out whenever it wants. These flaps are constructed of aluminum or plastic and sit in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that opens by lightly pushing on either side. The flaps are available in locking versions that provide additional security so that your cat is not able to enter the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also frequently employed in 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 get them. If the window is not sufficient in height to be used as the flap for cats, you can opt for steps, ramps or stairs that are specially designed to assist the animal in reaching it.

Cat flaps can also be fitted into a brick wall, however this is not recommended unless you're familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the structure of the wall. It is essential to ensure that there aren't any cables and pipes in here the wall prior to you begin. It is recommended to consult an expert when you need to make a hole for pipes or cables. It's also advisable to wear protective goggles and a dust protection mask to avoid breathing in any sawdust that is created by cutting through the walls of your house.

Select the Right Cat Flap

There are a variety of cat flaps available and all of them offer various features. Some are equipped with security features such as magnetic locks or microchips that block entry by unauthorized persons and stop your pet allowing friends or other animals into the home. Some have weatherproof seals and insulation to block out the elements and keep out drafts.

There's also a variety of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, whereas others are circular or square. The kind of cat flap you choose will depend on the size of the opening and the kind of door or window you're installing it to.

Last but not least, think about the opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. A simple aluminum or plastic swing-out door is one choice and is typically the least expensive. However, it will not stop other pets or cats from entering and you may let draughts in as well.

It's time to install your cat flap. Begin by marking the height of the belly on the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is not too low and is straight on get more info the door. Utilize your spirit level to draw a sketch of the cat flap. Next, use your Jigsaw to cut the outline of the door. Once you're happy with the results sand down the edges and then drill through the pencil marks to make holes for the screws.

Prepare the Tools

Like all DIY tasks, it's best to have the appropriate tools to complete the task. You'll need the cat flap along with tape measure and pencil as well as a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the kind of door or window.

If you're installing in a composite door, you should consult with the manufacturer prior to making any changes as this may affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this scenario it's likely that you'll need to replace the glass with a brand new piece of toughened glass.

For wooden or uPVC doors, you'll need to cut out the shape of your cat flap using a jigsaw and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Make use of a template to mark the size hole you'll require.

After you've cut the required hole, you must sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will prevent future rust and water damage. It is also recommended to seal the holes in click here your window or door and the back of the flap to prevent rain and wind. When the sealant has dried then you're now ready to put in your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

Fitting a flap will allow your cat to go and come whenever it pleases. Most people can install the flap themselves. However, if you want to install it on glass or uPVC type door, you may require a professional.

Take a look at the instructions that came with your cat flap. composite door cat flap There is a drawing of the template. This will provide you with an idea of where holes for the flap read more need to be drilled into the door. Mark the areas you'll need to drill in with the pencil.

After you've marked the area on your door, you can use the jigsaw and cut out the design for the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task, but you'll need to be comfortable using the jigsaw. Many companies will do this task for you at a reasonable cost if you are hesitant to tackle it yourself.

Then, you can screw the inside part to the hole in your door. You may have to seal it prior to doing this to ensure it stays watertight and weather resistant. Then, you can put the outer part of the flap on top of the fixing bolts and tighten them all together. It is recommended that you test the cat flap with your cat to ensure that it works correctly and that they are able to enter and leave easily through it.