Fitting a Cat Flap

Fitting a Cat Flap

Blog Article

Installing a cat flap into your home could be a big step for any pet owner. There are a variety of options for you, no matter if your cat is getting older and requires extra security or you have kittens who need to be vetted.

It can be intimidating for those who aren't professionals to put in an animal flap, but with right instructions it's easy. Planning, preparation and precision are the key to success.

Select the Right Door or Window

There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, some with locks that can be used to keep your pet from getting out or in and others with high tech features like microchip door entry system. But, it's important to consider how easy your cat is to teach to use the flap prior to making a purchase and install one.

It's best to place the cat flap, depending on the style of your home, in the form of a window that opens to a garden that is sheltered. This will allow your cat to feel safe when entering or leaving your home. If possible this will also allow them a route back in should they get pursued by a different cat or by humans intent to harm them.

It's possible to put a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as easy as putting one in a wood door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses, and this can impact how holes are cut and what you're fixing into.

To avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended to consult a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If you're installing the flap into the door made of wood, you should introduce your cat to it first to make sure it is familiar with its dimensions and shape.

Find out the size of your cat's belly

In order to put in the right cat flap that's suitable for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat's height. This will ensure that the flap is the right height for your door or window and that it's large enough for them to enter and exit easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Check for any fat pads that are squishy which could be visible on their lower back, face, and the limbs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline acrobatics.

You can also take into account the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you need. If your cat weighs 5Kg, for example the suggested flap size is 14x12cm.

Take a measurement of your door or window

The name implies the cat flap is designed to be fixed into an opening and provide a way for your pet to enter or leave as it pleases. They are usually made from plastic or aluminium and simply rest in the middle of the door. They have the possibility of a swinging door that is opened by pushing lightly on either side. The flaps are available in locking versions that provide additional security so that your cat is not able to enter the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also often used on windows. They are able to be easily installed, but they have to be installed 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, you can use steps, ramps or specially designed stairs to help the animal reach it.

It is possible to install the cat flap onto brick walls, however it is not recommended for people who aren't familiar with the masonry industry. This could cause the wall to weaken. Before you begin, it is important to make sure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. Always consult an expert when you need to create a hole for pipes and cables. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask will ensure that you don't breathe in the dust that is generated when cutting into your walls.

Select the Right Cat Flap

There are many cat flaps that are available on the market, and they all offer different features. Some cat flaps have security features, such as magnetic locks or microchips that prevent unauthorized entry. They also stop your pet more info from letting friends or other animals into the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to keep out the elements of moisture and draughts.

There's also a variety of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular while others are circular or square. The type of cat flap you pick will depend on the size of the opening and the kind of door or window you're installing it to.

Last but not least, consider the type of opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is one option and is usually the least expensive. It won't prevent other animals and cats from entering, and you could website also let in get more info draughts.

Once you've selected the right cat flap and measured your window or door, it's time to fit it. Begin by marking the height of the belly on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is straight against the door and not too low. Use your spirit level to draw a sketch of the flap for cats. Then, using a saw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you're happy with the result, sand the edges and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for screws.

Prepare the Tools

Like any DIY jobs, it's always best to have the right tools to complete the task. You'll need the cat flap, tape measure and pencil along with a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the type of door or window.

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

For wooden or uPVC doors you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap using the Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines given by the manufacturer. Make use of a template to mark out the size hole you'll require.

After you've cut the required hole, you should then smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will prevent any water damage or rust from happening in the near future. It is also recommended to cover the holes in your door or window and the side of the flap to keep out wind and rain. After the sealant has dried then you're now ready to put in your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

Fitting a flap will allow your cat to go and come whenever it wishes. Most people can put in the flap by themselves. However when you plan to install it on a glass or uPVC type door, you may need an expert.

Take a look at the instructions included with your cat flap. You will find a drawing of the template. This will give you an idea of where holes for the flap need to be drilled in the door. Mark more info the areas in which you will need to drill with pencil.

After you have marked the door on your door, use the jigsaw and cut out the the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task, but you will have to be comfortable using a jigsaw. Many companies will do this for you at a reasonable cost If you're not sure how to tackle it yourself.

Next, you will need to screw the inner part of the cat flap to the door's hole. It might be necessary to seal the flap before you do this in order to keep it waterproof and weatherproof. The outside of your cat flap may be placed check here on the bolts on top, and then tightened together. You should test the cat flap on your cat to confirm that it's working properly and that it allows them to enter and exit easily.