Fitting a Cat Flap

Fitting a Cat Flap

Blog Article

Installing a cat flap in your home is a great step for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have a new kitten that require a thorough screening, there are a lot of options there for you.

Installing a cat flap could be daunting for non-professionals however, with the proper instructions, it's not hard to accomplish. The key is preparation, planning and precision.

Select the Right Door or Windows

There are a wide variety of cat flaps that are available including some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from going out or entering) and others with high-tech features like microchip door entry systems. But, it's important to consider the ease of your cat to teach to use the flap before you purchase and fit one.

Based on the style of your house It is recommended to place the cat flap in the form of a door or window that opens out into a sheltered area of the garden, so that your cat can feel safe when entering and leaving the home. If possible, this will also give them a way back should they be chased by another cat or by humans intent to hurt them.

It's possible to install a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it's not the same as fitting one on a wooden door. This is because uPVC and composite doors come in various thicknesses, and this can impact the way holes are cut as well as the material you're fixing it into.

If you're installing the flap in the glass of a door, it's recommended that you seek out a glazier that is skilled in such work to avoid costly mistakes. If you are fitting the flap to an existing wooden door it is recommended that you introduce your cat first so that it can become familiar with its dimensions and shape.

Measure Your Cat's Belly

In order to install an appropriate cat flap that is a good fit for your pet, you'll have 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 also that it's large enough for him to enter and exit easily.

To do this, put your pet on their back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Look for a fat pad that is squishy around the lower back or face, or around the limbs. The extra padding offers your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics that felines are famous for.

You can also use the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you need. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg in weight for instance, a 14 x 12cm flap for your cat is recommended.

Make sure you measure your windows or doors

As the name suggests this kind of cat flap is made to be attached to a door and provides the pet with a way to enter or leave whenever it wants. They are typically made of plastic or aluminium and simply are placed in the middle of the door. They have the possibility of a swinging door that opens by pushing lightly on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps, which provide extra security, so your cat won't be able to simply enter the door from the outside.

A window here is another common place to put a cat flap, and they are simple enough to fit, although they usually need to be located high enough as it's difficult for dogs and cats to access them. If the window is too high to be used as a cat flap then ramps, steps or specially built stairs can be utilized to aid the animal in accessing it.

It is possible to put an egress into brick walls, however it is not recommended for people who aren't experienced in masonry. This could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's essential to ensure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. If there are, then an opening must be created for them and this is something you should always seek expert advice on. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask can ensure that you don't breathe in the sawdust that is created when you cut into your walls.

Select the Right Cat Flap

There are many different cat flaps available and they all have various features. Some cat flaps have security features, such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry. They also keep your pet from letting friends or animals to enter the house. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to keep out the elements and keep out drafts.

There's also a range of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are square or circular. The kind of cat flap you select will depend on the size of the opening and the type of window or door you're fitting it to.

Lastly, think about the opening mechanism that your cat flap will come with. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. more info It won't prevent other animals and cats here from entering however, and you could let in draughts.

It's time to install your cat flap. Start by marking the belly height on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is sitting straight against the door and not too low. Utilize your spirit level to draw a sketch of the cat flap. Then, using the Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. When you're happy with the result, sand check here the edges and then drill through the pencil marks to make holes for screws.

Prepare the Tools

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

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

You'll need to use a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. Make use of a template to determine the size of hole you need.

After you have cut the hole, you'll have to sand off the edges of the opening. This will stop future rust and water damage. In the end, you must apply any necessary sealant to the rear of the cat flap and to the holes in the window or door to keep out rain and wind. After the sealant has dried then you're now ready to put in your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to come and go as it pleases, fitting flaps can be helpful. This is a simple process that most people can accomplish by themselves, though you'll likely require the help of a professional if you are installing the flap on the form of a glass door or another kind of uPVC door.

Look at the instructions included with the cat flap. There is a template drawing. This will provide you with an idea of where holes for the flap have to be drilled in the door. Then, mark the check here places that you'll need to drill with the pencil.

After you've marked the area in your door, use a jigsaw to cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a relatively simple job, but you'll need to be comfortable using the Jigsaw. Many companies will complete this task for you at a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to take on the task yourself.

Then, screw the inner part of the door to the hole in your door. It might be necessary to seal the flap before you do this in order to keep it weatherproof and watertight. You can then place the outer section of the flap on top of the fixing bolts and then tighten the bolts all together. You should test the flap on your cat to confirm that it is working correctly and allows them to exit and enter easily.