Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is a fantastic step for any pet owner. There are many options available to you, regardless of whether your cat is getting older and requires additional security or you have kittens that require to be examined. It can be a bit daunting for non-professionals to install the cat flap, but with right instructions it's easy. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the key to success. Choose the Right Door, or Window There are a variety of cat flaps, including some with locks that can be used to prevent your pet from leaving or in, while others have advanced features like microchips for door entry system. It is important to consider how it is easy to train your cat to use the flap before you buy and install one. It's best to place the cat flap, based on the design of your house, in an opening that leads into an area of the garden that is protected. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering or leaving your home. This will also enable them to get back inside in the event of being pursued by a pet or humans who want 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 into a wood door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors are available in different thicknesses, which can affect the way holes are cut and the materials you're fixing them to. To avoid costly mistakes It is recommended that you consult an expert glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If you're fitting the flap to the door made of wood, start by introduction of your cat to it before you fit it so that they can get used to its size and shape and explore it from every angle. Measure Your Cat's Belly You'll need your cat's measurements to ensure that the cat flap you install is a perfect fit. This will enable you to ensure that the cat flap is at the right height for the window or door, and that it is large enough to allow him to enter and exit easily. To do Repair My Windows And Doors , place your pet on their back and gently rub your fingers along their belly. Check for any fat pads that are squishy which may be visible around their lower back, face and the limbs. The extra padding offers your pet safety and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics felines are known for. Alternately, you could use your pet's weight to determine the size of an opening you'll need. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg, for example the suggested cat flap opening size is 14x12cm. Make sure you measure your door or window Like the name suggests, this type of cat flap is designed to be fixed into a door and provides an opportunity for your pet to go in or out at any time it wishes. They are typically made of aluminum or plastic and rest in the middle of the door. They have a two-way swinging door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. The flaps are available in locking versions which provide extra security so your cat cannot simply walk through the door from outside. Cat flaps are also frequently used in windows. They can be easily installed, but they have to be set at a height where cats and dogs find it difficult to get them. If the window isn't sufficient in height to be used as a cat's flap, then you can opt for steps, ramps or specially designed stairs to help the animal reach it. A cat flap can be installed into a brick wall, however it is not recommended unless you are skilled in masonry work as it could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's important to make sure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. If there are, a hole needs to be made for them. This is something you should always seek expert advice on. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask can help you avoid inhaling the dust that is generated when cutting through your walls. Select the Right Cat Flap There are a variety of cat flaps that are available on the market, and all offer different features. Some come with security options like magnetic locks or microchip recognition to stop unauthorized entry and stop your pet allowing guests or other animals to enter the home. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to keep out draughts and moisture. There are also different sizes that are available based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are available in rectangular shapes, while others are square or circular. Choosing the right type of cat flap will be determined by the space you have available as well as the type of window or door you want to attach it to. Last but not least, consider the type of opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. A simple aluminium or plastic swing-out door is one choice and is typically the cheapest. However, it will not stop other pets or cats from entering and you may let draughts through too. It's time to put in your cat flap. Determine the belly height of the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is straight on the door and not too low. Create a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, using a jigsaw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you're happy with the results sand down the edges and drill through the pencil lines to create holes for the screws. Make the Tools It's important to have the right tools available when doing any DIY project. You'll require the cat flap as well as a pencil and tape measure along with a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the type of window or door. Check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a door made of composite. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to be damaged. In this instance, it's likely that you will need to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass. You'll require the jigsaw to cut your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacture. If you can, use an example to identify the size of the hole you need to cut. After you've made the hole, you should then sand down the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will prevent the possibility of water damage and rust. In the end, you must apply any sealant that is needed to the back of the cat flap as well as to the holes in the door or window to keep out the elements of wind and rain. After the sealant has dried, you're ready to install your new cat flap! Install the Flap If you want your cat to be able to move around whenever it wants, installing flaps can be helpful. This is a straightforward process that most people can accomplish on their own, but you will likely require the assistance of an expert if you're installing the flap on an unglazed door or any other kind of uPVC door. Start by looking at the instructions provided with your cat flap to find the template drawing. This will give an idea of the location where the holes will be drilled for the flap in the door. Then, mark the areas in which you will have to drill using a pencil. Once you have marked out the door's opening 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 task for you for a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to do it yourself. Then, screw the inner part to the hole in your door. It is possible to seal it prior to doing this to ensure it is weather and water resistant. You can then place the outer portion of the flap on the top of the fixing bolts, and tighten them all. You must test the cat flap on your cat to ensure that it functions properly and allows them to exit and enter easily.