Fitting a Cat Flap
Installing a cat flap into your home could be a big step for any pet owner. If your cat is old and needs extra security or you have a new kitten who require a vet check there are a lot of options there to choose from.
It can be a bit daunting for non-professionals to install a cat flap, but with the right instructions it's easy. Preparation, planning and precision are the keys.
Select the Right Door or Windows
There's a wide selection of cat flaps to choose from including some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from going out or entering) and others with high-tech features such as microchip door entry systems. But, it's important to think about how easy it is for your cat to train to use the flap before you purchase and fit one.
It is recommended to put the cat flap, based on the design of your house, in a window that opens into an area of the garden that is protected. This will help your cat feel secure when entering or leaving your home. This will also enable them to return inside if they're chased by another animal or humans who want to harm them.
It is possible to install a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as easy as putting one in a wood door. It's because uPVC or composite doors are available in different thicknesses. This could affect the way holes are cut, and the type of door you can fix into.
To avoid costly mistakes It is recommended that you consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If you're installing the flap on a wooden door, start by introduction of your cat to it prior to fitting it so that they can be familiar with its shape and size, and explore it from every angle.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
To install a cat flap that's suitable for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's size. This will help you ensure that your cat flap is placed at the right height for the door or window, and that it's big enough for him to enter and out easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back, face or limbs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline circus skills.
Alternatively, you can also consider your pet's weight as a way to gauge how big an opening you'll need. If your cat weighs more than 5kg, for instance, the suggested cat flap size is 14x12cm.
Make sure you measure your door or window
The name implies, this type of cat flap is designed to be affixed to a door and provides a way for your pet to leave or enter as it pleases. These flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and are located in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that opens by gently pressing on either side. These flaps can be locked which provide extra security so that your cat is not able to enter the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also commonly used on windows. They are able to be easily installed, however they have to be installed at a high level as cats and dogs find it difficult to reach them. If the window is too high for a cat flap then steps, ramps or purpose built stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it.
A cat flap can be installed to a brick wall, but it is not recommended unless familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it is important to ensure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. You should always consult a professional if you need to create a hole for pipes or cables. It's also advisable to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust protection mask to avoid inhaling any sawdust that is created by cutting through your home's walls.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are many different cat flaps available and all of them offer various features. Certain cat flaps come with security features like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also stop your pet from allowing friends or animals to enter the home. cat flap fitting are weatherproof and have insulation to block out the elements and keep out drafts.
There are different sizes that are available based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are circular or square. The type of cat flap you select will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the kind of door or window you're fixing it to.
The last thing to do is take into consideration the kind of opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. A simple aluminum or plastic swing-out door is a good choice and is typically the cheapest. It will not stop other cats and pets from entering the room, and you could be letting in drafts.
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 straight on the door and not too low. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, using a Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. Once you are happy with the result finish sanding the edges and drill through the pencil lines to create holes for screws.
Prepare the Tools
It is essential to have the right tools for doing any DIY project. The most essential things you'll need are the cat flap itself along with a tape measure, an excellent pencil and a spirit level a file, drill and an jigsaw (depending on the door or window type).
If you're installing in a composite door, consult with the manufacturer before making any changes, since this could affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this instance, you'll probably have to install an entirely new pane of toughened glass instead.
For wooden or uPVC doors, you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap using the Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines provided by the manufacturer. Use a template to mark the size hole you need.
After you've made the hole, you must sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will prevent any rust or water damage from occurring in the future. It is also recommended to cover the holes in your window or door and the back of the flap to prevent 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 whenever it wants, installing flaps can aid. Most people can put in the flap by themselves. However, if you want to install it on a glass or uPVC type door, you may require an expert.
Start by looking at the instructions included with the flap to locate the template. This will give you an idea of where holes for the flap have to be drilled in the door. Mark the areas you will need to drill in with a pencil.
After you have mapped out the door's area and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple job, but you'll need to be comfortable with the saw. If you are concerned about doing this yourself, there are a lot of businesses that can handle this for you at a minimal cost.
Next, you will need to screw the inner part of the flap onto the hole in your door. It might be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this, in order to ensure it is weatherproof and watertight. The outer section of your cat flap may be placed on the bolts on top, and then tacked together. You should test the cat flap on your cat to ensure that it's working properly and that it allows the cat to go in and out easily.