Fitting a Cat Flap

Fitting a Cat Flap

Blog Article

Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is an excellent step for any pet owner. There are a variety of options for you, no matter if your cat is old and requires additional security or you have kittens that require to be examined.

It can be difficult for people who aren't experts in installing a cat flap, but with the right instructions it's easy. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the key to success.

Choose the Right Door, or Window

There's a wide selection of cat flaps available including some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from going out or coming in) and others that have high-tech features such as microchips for door entry systems. It is important to consider how easy it is for your cat to teach to use the flap before you buy and install one.

Based on the style of your house It is recommended to situate the cat flap near the form of a door or window that opens onto an area that is protected from the garden so that your cat can feel safe when leaving and entering the home. If possible this will also allow them a way back should they get chased by a cat or by a human intent to hurt them.

It is possible to install a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it's not as simple as installing one on a wooden door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors come in various thicknesses, and this can impact how holes are cut and the material you're fixing it to.

If you're installing the flap on the glass of a door it is recommended to consult a glazier who specialises in this type of work to avoid any costly errors. If you're installing the flap in a wooden door, start by introduction of your cat to it prior to fitting it, so that they become familiar with its shape and size, and explore it from every angle.

Measure Your Cat's Belly

In order to put in a cat flap that's the right size for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's size. This will enable you to ensure that the cat flap is placed at the right height for the door or window, and that it's big enough for him to enter and leave easily.

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

You can also make use of your pet's weight to determine the size of the opening you need. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg in weight, for example that's a 14x12cm flap for the cat is advised.

Measure Your Door or Window

This type of cat flap, as its name suggests, is designed to be installed into the door. It allows your pet to be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. They are typically made of aluminum or plastic and rest in the middle of the door with the possibility of a swinging door that opens by pressing lightly on either side. The flaps are available with locking options that provide additional security so your cat cannot simply walk through the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also often used on windows. They are able to be easily installed, however they have to be set at an elevated level since cats and dogs have a difficult time to access them. If the window isn't high enough to use the flap for cats, you can opt for steps, ramps or stairs that are specially designed to assist the animal in reaching it.

A cat flap can be incorporated into a brick wall, however it is not recommended unless experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the wall's structure. It's read more important to check that there are no cables and pipes in the wall prior to you start. If there are, then an opening must be created for them and this is something that you should always seek professional advice on. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask can ensure that you don't breathe in the sawdust created when you cut into your walls.

Select the Right Cat Flap

There are a variety of cat check here flaps on the market and they all have different features. Some have security options such as magnetic locks or microchips that block entry by unauthorized persons and stop your pet allowing friends or other animals into the home. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to block out draughts and moisture.

There are different sizes to cat flap fitting choose from based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, while 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.

Finally consider the mechanism to open your cat flap is likely to have. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. However, it will not keep other animals or cats from entering and you may let read more draughts in as well.

It's time to put in your cat flap. Begin by marking the belly's height on the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is not too low and is straight on 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're happy with the result, sand the edges and drill through the pencil marks to create holes for the screws.

Prepare the Tools

Like all DIY tasks, it's recommended to have the appropriate tools for the job. You'll need a cat flap, a pencil and tape measure, a spirit-level, a drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the kind of door or window.

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

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

After you've cut the hole, you'll need to sand the edges of the opening. This will help prevent cat flap insulation the possibility of water damage and rust. Also, you should apply any sealant you require to the rear of the cat flap and to the holes in the window or door to keep out the elements of wind and rain. When the sealant has dried, you're ready to install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to come and go whenever it wants, installing flaps can be helpful. This is a simple process that most people can complete on their own, but you will likely require the help of an expert if you're installing the flap on a glass door or other type of uPVC door.

Take a look at the instructions that came with the cat flap. You will find a drawing of the template. This will give you an idea of where holes for the flap will need to be drilled in the door. Mark the areas you'll have to drill with the pencil.

After you have mapped out the door's area then use a jigsaw cut out the design of the cat flap. It is a relatively simple task, but you'll require a good understanding of a Jigsaw. Numerous companies will perform this for you for a reasonable price if you are hesitant to take on the task yourself.

Then, screw the inner part to the hole in your door. It is possible to apply sealant before doing this to ensure that it stays watertight and weather resistant. You can then place the outer portion of the flap on the 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 can enter and leave easily through it.