Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in to your home can be a big step for any pet owner. There are numerous options for you, no matter if your cat is getting older and needs extra security or you have kittens that need to be checked.
It can be a bit daunting for people who aren't experts in installing a cat flap, but with the right instructions it's easy. The most important thing is planning, preparation and precision.
Select the Right Door or Windows
There are a wide variety of cat flaps to choose from that come with locks (which can be used to stop your pet going out or entering) and others with advanced features like microchip door entry systems. It is important to think about the ease of your cat to teach to use the flap prior to making a purchase and install one.
It is recommended to put the cat flap, depending on the design of your house, in an opening that leads into an area of the garden that is protected. This will help your cat feel secure when entering and leaving your home. If you can, this will also give them a route back in should they be pursued by a different cat or by humans intent to hurt them.
It's possible to install a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as easy as putting one on a wooden door. It's because uPVC or composite doors are available in different thicknesses. This can affect the how holes are cut and the type of door you can fix into.
To avoid costly errors to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended to consult an expert glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you're installing the flap in a wooden door, start by introduction of your cat to it prior to fitting it to allow them to get used to its size and shape and explore it from all angles.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
In order to install a cat flap that's a good fit for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is at the right height for your door or window and that it's large enough to allow them to enter and out easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers over their belly. Check for any squishy fat pads which may be visible around their lower back, face and legs. The padding provides your pet safety and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the acrobatics cats are famous for.
Alternatively, you can also make use of your pet's weight to determine the size of an opening you'll need. If your cat weighs 5kg, for instance the suggested flap size is 14 x 12cm.
Make sure you measure your door or window
As the name suggests, this type of cat flap is designed to be fixed into the door, and offers the pet with a way to leave or enter at any time it wishes. They are usually made from plastic or aluminium and simply rest in the middle of the door with a two-way swinging door that opens by pressing lightly on either side. she said are available in locking versions which provide extra security so that your cat is not able to traverse the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also often used on windows. They are able to be easily installed, but they need to be set at a high level as cats and dogs have a difficult time to get them. If the window is too high to use a cat flap, ramps, steps or specially built stairs can be used to aid the animal in accessing it.
It is possible to install the cat flap onto a brickwall, but it is not recommended for people who aren't experienced in masonry. This could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it is important to make sure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. just click the up coming web site should always consult an expert when you need to create a hole for pipes or cables. It's also advisable to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust protection mask to prevent inhaling any of the sawdust created by cutting through your home's walls.
Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.
There are numerous cat flaps that are available on the market, and they come with various features. Certain cat flaps come with security features like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry. They also prevent your pet from letting friends or another animal into the house. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to block out moisture and draughts.
There are also different sizes to choose from based on the size and breed of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, while others are circular or square. Selecting the best cat flap is determined by the space you have available and the kind of window or door you want to attach it to.
Last but not least, consider the type of opening mechanism your cat flap will use. A simple aluminium or plastic swing-out door is a good option and is usually the cheapest. But, for beginners will not prevent other cats or pets from gaining access and you could let draughts through as well.
It's time to install your cat flap. Start by marking the belly height on the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is sitting exactly on the door and not too low. Use your spirit level to draw a template for the cat flap. Then, using a saw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you are happy with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil marks to create holes for screws.
Prepare the Tools
It is essential to have the right tools available when doing any DIY project. The main things you'll need are the cat flap itself along with a tape measure, a decent pencil as well as a spirit level, drill, file, and a jigsaw (depending on the window or door type).
If you're installing in a composite door, you should consult with the manufacturer prior to making any changes because this could invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this scenario it's likely that you will need to replace the glass with a brand new piece of toughened glass.
For wooden or uPVC doors will require cutting out the shape of your cat flap using a Jigsaw. Follow the directions that are provided by the manufacturer. Use a template to mark the size hole you need.
After you have cut the hole, you'll have to sand off the edges of the opening. This will stop any rust or water damage from happening in the near future. Also, you should apply any sealant that is needed to the rear of the cat flap, and to the holes in the door or window to keep out rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry it is time to install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
Fitting a flap will allow your cat to go and come whenever it wishes. It's a simple procedure that most people can do by themselves, though you may 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 included with your cat flap. You will find a drawing of the template. This will give you an idea of the location where holes need to be drilled for the flap in the door. Mark the areas you will need to drill into using a pencil.
After you have mapped out the door's area then use a jigsaw cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a relatively easy job, but you'll require a good understanding of the saw. Many companies will complete this task for you for a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to tackle it yourself.
Then, attach the outer part of the door to the hole in your door. You may have to apply sealant before making this move to ensure it remains weather-proof and water resistant. Then, you can put the outer section of the cat flap on top of the fixing bolts, and tighten the bolts all together. It is recommended that you test the flap with your cat to make sure that it is working properly and that they are able to get in and out of it.