Fitting a Cat Flap

Fitting a Cat Flap

Blog Article

Getting a cat flap fitted in to your home can be a big step for any pet owner. There are many options available for you, no matter if your cat is old and requires extra security, or you have kittens that need to be vetted.

Installing a cat flap could be daunting for non-professionals however, with the proper instructions, it's not hard to do. Planning, preparation and precision are the key to success.

Select the Right Door or Windows

There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, some with locks that can be used to keep your pet from leaving or inside, and others that have high tech features like microchip 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.

Depending on the design of your house, it's generally best to situate the cat flap in a window or door that opens to an area of protection in the garden so that your cat will feel secure going into and out of the house. If you can, this will also give them a route back in should they get pursued by a different cat or by humans intent on harming them.

You can install a cat flap in the case of a uPVC door or a glass window however, it's not as simple as putting one in a wooden door. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in different thicknesses. This can affect the way holes are cut, and the material you put into.

If you're installing the flap in the glass of a door it is recommended that you find a glazier who is experienced in this type of work to avoid costly errors. If you're installing the flap to a wooden door, start by introducing 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 the right cat flap that's the right size for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's height. This will help you ensure that your cat flap is placed at the right height on the window or door, and also that it's large enough for him to get in and exit easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers along their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back or face, or around the legs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline acrobatics.

You can also consider your pet's weight as a way to gauge how big an opening you require. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg, for example, the suggested cat flap opening size is 14 x 12cm.

Measure Your Door or Window

Like the name suggests the cat flap is designed to be fixed into a door and provides a way for your pet to enter or leave at any time it wishes. They are typically made of plastic or aluminium and simply rest in the middle of the door with the possibility of a swinging door that opens by pushing lightly on either side. The flaps can be locked which provide extra security which means that your cat can't traverse the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also commonly used on windows. They can be easily installed, but they have to be placed at a height where cats and dogs find it difficult to get them. If the window isn't sufficient to accommodate the flap for cats, you can opt for ramps, steps or stairs that are specially designed to aid the animal in getting to it.

Cat flaps can be installed into a brick wall but it is not recommended unless you're skilled in masonry work as it could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's essential to ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. Always consult a professional if you need to cut a hole in the wall for cables and pipes. It's also advisable to wear protective goggles and a dust protection mask to avoid breathing in any sawdust generated by cutting through the walls of your home.

Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.

There are many cat flaps available on the market, and they have different features. Some flaps are equipped with security features such as microchip recognition or magnetic locks that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also stop your pet from allowing friends or animals to enter the house. Some cat flap installer have insulation as well as weatherproof seals that keep out draughts and moisture.

There's also a range of sizes based website on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular while others are square or circular. The best type of cat flap is determined by the space you have available as well as the type of door or window you are fitting it to.

The last thing to do is think about the opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. The cheapest option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. However, it won't stop other pets or cats from entering and you may let draughts in as well.

It's time to put in your cat flap. Start by marking the belly's height on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is exactly on the door and not too low. Use your spirit level to draw a template for the cat flap. Then, using the saw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you're happy with the result, sand the edges and drill through get more info the pencil lines to make holes for screws.

Make the Tools

It's important to have the right tools available when undertaking any DIY project. You'll need a cat flap along with tape measure and pencil along with a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the kind of door or window.

Consult the manufacturer before making any changes to a door made of composite. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal to become broken. In this case you'll have to install an entirely new pane of toughened glass instead.

You'll need an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions given by the manufacturer. If possible, you can use an example to determine the dimensions of the hole you will need to cut.

After you've made the hole, you'll have get more info to sand the edges of the opening. This will prevent any rust or water damage from happening in the future. Also, you should apply any sealant you require to the back of the cat flap as well as to the holes in get more info the door or window to keep out rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry and dry, you can install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

The installation of a flap will allow your cat to come and go whenever it pleases. Most people can install the flap themselves. However, if you want to install it on a glass or uPVC type door, you may need an expert.

Start by looking at the instructions included with your cat flap to locate the template drawing. This will provide you with an idea of where holes for the flap will need to be made in the door. Then, mark the areas in which you will must drill using pencil.

After you've marked the door's opening then use a jigsaw cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task, but you'll need to be comfortable using the jigsaw. Numerous companies will perform this work for you for a reasonable price If you're not sure how to take on the task yourself.

The next step is to screw the inner part of the flap onto the door's hole. It is possible to seal it prior to doing this to ensure it stays watertight and weather resistant. You can then put the outer portion of the flap on top of the fixing bolts and then tighten the bolts all together. It is recommended to test the flap using your cat to make sure that it works correctly and that they are able to move easily through it.