Fitting a Cat Flap

Fitting a Cat Flap

Blog Article

Getting a cat flap fitted in to your home can be a huge step for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have kittens that require a thorough screening There are a lot of options there for you.

It can be a bit daunting for those who aren't professionals to put in an animal flap, but with the right instructions it's easy. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and precision.

Choose the Right Door, or Window

There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to keep your pet from getting out or in, while others have high tech features like microchip door entry systems. But, it's important to think about the ease of your cat to train to use the flap prior to making a buy and install one.

Depending on the style of your home It is recommended to situate the cat flap near a window or door that opens onto an area of protection in the garden so your cat can feel safe when leaving and entering the home. This will also enable them to return inside if they are chased by other animals or human beings who wish to harm them.

You can put the cat flap on a uPVC door or a glass window however, it's not as straightforward as fitting one into wooden doors. It's because uPVC or composite doors come in various thicknesses. This can affect the how holes are cut and the type of door you can fix to.

To avoid costly mistakes to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended that you consult a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you're fitting the flap on a wooden door, start by introducing your cat to it before you fit it to allow them to become familiar with its shape and size, and explore it from all angles.

Measure Your Cat's Belly

To install the right cat flap that's suitable for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat. This will help you ensure that the cat flap is installed at the correct height on the door or window, and also that it's large enough for him to get in and leave easily.

To do this, lay your pet on their back and run your fingers gently along their belly. Check for any squishy fat pads that may be visible around their lower back, face or legs. The extra padding offers your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics that felines are famous for.

You can also take into account the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you require. If your cat weighs at or above 5kg in weight, for example that's a 14x12cm flap for the cat is advised.

Measure Your Door or Window

Like the name suggests this kind of cat flap is designed to be affixed to an opening and provide an opportunity for your pet to leave or enter at any time it wishes. They are typically made of plastic or aluminium and simply rest in the middle of the door. They have an open door that opens by pushing lightly on either side. They can be locked which provide extra security so your cat cannot simply traverse the door from outside.

A window is another popular location for a cat 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 is too high to use a cat flap, then ramps, steps or specially constructed stairs can be used to help the animal access it.

Cat flaps can also be fitted into a brick wall but this is not recommended unless you're familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the structure of the wall. It's important to check that there aren't any cables and pipes within the wall before you begin. It is recommended to consult an expert if you have to make a hole for pipes or cables. It is also recommended to wear protective goggles and a dust-proof mask to prevent inhaling any sawdust that is created by cutting through the walls of your home.

Choose the right cat flap

There are a variety of cat flaps on the market and each one comes with various features. Some cat flaps have security features, such as magnetic locks or microchips that prevent unauthorized entry. They also stop your pet from allowing friends or other animals into the house. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to block out the elements and keep out drafts.

There's also a range of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, whereas others are circular or square. The type of cat flap you choose will depend on the size of the opening and the kind of door or window you're fitting it to.

Lastly think about the mechanism to open your cat flap will come with. The cheapest option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. However, it will not prevent other cats or pets from entering and you may let draughts in as well.

It's time to put in your cat flap. Begin by marking the height of the belly on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is sitting exactly on the door and not too low. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, using your saw, cut out the outline of the door. When you're happy with the result, sand the edges and here then drill through the pencil lines to create holes for the screws.

Make the Tools

As with all DIY jobs, it's always advisable to make sure you have the right tools for the job. The most important things you'll require 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 windows or doors).

If you're installing in a composite door, check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes because this could invalidate the warranty or get more info break get more info the weathertight seal. In this case, you'll probably 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 using a Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines provided by the manufacturer. Make use of a template to determine the size of hole you need.

After you've cut the hole, you will need to sand the edges of the opening. This will prevent any rust or water damage here from occurring in the future. You should also cover the holes in your door or window and the back of the flap to keep out wind and rain. Once the sealant has dried it is time to install your cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to come and go at will, installing flaps can be helpful. Most people can put in the flap themselves. However should you wish to install it on glass or uPVC type door, you might need an expert.

Take a look at the instructions included with the cat flap. There is a drawing of the template. This will give you an idea of the location where the holes will be made for the flap to be placed in the door. Mark the areas you will need to drill into using the pencil.

After you have marked the area on your door, you can use the jigsaw to cut the design for upvc door panels with cat flap the cat flap. It's a relatively easy task however you'll need be comfortable with a saw. Numerous companies will perform this for you for a reasonable price If you're not sure how to take on the task yourself.

Then, attach the outer part to the hole of your door. You may have to apply sealant prior to doing this to ensure it is weather and water resistant. Then, you can put the outer portion of the flap on top of the fixing bolts and tighten them all. It is recommended that you test the cat flap with your cat to ensure that it is working properly and that they are able to get in and out of it.