Fitting a Cat Flap

Fitting a Cat Flap

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Installing a cat flap into your home could be a huge step for any pet owner. There are numerous options for you, no matter if your cat is old and requires extra security, or you have kittens that need to be examined.

It can be difficult for those who aren't professionals to put in the cat flap, but with proper instructions, it's simple. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the most important factors.

Select the Right Door, or Windows

There are a wide variety of cat flaps available, some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from going out or entering) and others with advanced features like microchip door entry systems. It's important to think about how it is easy to train your cat to use the flap, before you purchase and install one.

It's best to place the cat flap, depending on the style of your house, in an opening that leads into a sheltered garden area. This will allow your cat to feel safe when entering or leaving your home. This will also enable them to get back inside if they are chased by another animal or humans who want to hurt them.

You can put an egress flap inside the form of a uPVC door or a glass window, but it's not as simple as putting one in wooden doors. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in different thicknesses. This could affect the method of cutting holes, and the material you put to.

To avoid costly errors It is recommended that you consult an expert glazier prior to installing the flap on a door with a glass front. If you're fitting the flap to the door made of wood, start by the cat with it prior to fitting it to allow them to become familiar with its shape and size and explore it from every angle.

Measure Your Cat's Belly

You'll need the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap you choose to install is the perfect fit. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is at the right height on your door or window and that it's large enough to allow them to get in and exit with ease.

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

Alternately, you could use your pet's weight to determine the size of the opening you require. If your cat is at or above 5kg in weight, for example, a 14 x 12cm flap for your cat is advised.

Take a measurement of your door or window

As the name suggests this kind of cat flap is designed to be fixed into an opening and provide the pet with a way to leave or enter whenever it wants. They are usually made from plastic or aluminium and simply rest in the middle of the door with a two-way swinging door that opens by pressing lightly on either side. The flaps are available in locking versions 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, but they have to be installed at a high level as cats and dogs find it difficult to get them. If the window isn't sufficient to accommodate a cat's flap, you can make use of click here steps, ramps or stairs that are specially designed to aid the animal in getting to it.

A cat flap can be incorporated into a brick wall but this is not recommended unless experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it's important to make sure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. If they are, an opening must be made for them. This is something you should always seek expert advice on. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask will help you avoid inhaling the sawdust that is created when cutting through your walls.

Select the Right Cat Flap

There are many cat flaps that are available on the market, and all offer various features. Some are equipped with security features like magnetic locks or microchip recognition to block entry by unauthorized persons and restrict your pet from letting pets or friends into the home. Some have weatherproof seals and insulation to block out moisture and draughts.

There's also a range of sizes, based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are available in rectangular shapes, while others are circular or square. The best type of cat flap will be dictated by the space available and the kind of window or door you intend to install it on.

Lastly consider the opening mechanism that your cat flap will come with. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. But, it will not stop other pets or cats from entering and you may let draughts in as well.

After you've chosen the appropriate cat flap and measured the window or door and window, it's now time to put it in place it. Begin by marking the height of the belly on the door with a click here ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure the line isn't too low and is in line with check here the door. Create a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, using the jigsaw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you are happy with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.

Prepare the Tools

It's essential to have the right tools available when performing any DIY project. You'll need the cat flap as well as an eraser and tape measure as well as a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the type of door or window.

If you're installing in a composite door, consult read more with the manufacturer prior to making any changes because this could invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this case, it's likely that you will need to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass.

You'll require the jigsaw to cut your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the instructions click here that are provided by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to determine the size of hole you'll need.

After you've made the hole, you must sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop future rust and water damage. It is also recommended to cover the holes in your window or door and the back of the cat flap to keep out rain and wind. After the sealant has dried, you can install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

Fitting a flap will allow your cat to go and come whenever it wants. It's a simple procedure that most people can accomplish by themselves, though you will likely require the assistance of an expert for installing the flap in an unglazed door or any other type of uPVC door.

Begin by studying the instructions included with the flap to locate the template. This will give you an idea of the location where the holes will be drilled for the flap in the door. Note the areas you'll need to drill in with the pencil.

After you have marked the door on your door, you can use the jigsaw to cut the shape for the cat flap. It is a relatively simple task, but you'll require a good understanding of the saw. Many companies will do this for you at a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to do it yourself.

Then, attach the outer part of the door to the hole in your door. You may have to apply sealant prior to making this move to ensure it remains weather-proof and water resistant. The outer section of your cat flap could be placed on the bolts' tops and then tightened together. It is recommended to test the flap using your cat to make sure that it functions properly and that they are able to move easily through it.