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, whether your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have kittens who need to be vetted.
It can be difficult for people who aren't experts in installing an animal flap, but with proper instructions, it's simple. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the most important factors.
Choose the Right Door, or Window
There are a variety of cat flaps that are available that come with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from going out or entering) and others with advanced features such as microchip door entry systems. It is important to consider how easy your cat is to teach to use the flap before you purchase and install one.
It is recommended to put the cat flap, depending on the design of your home, 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. If you can, this will also give them a way back case they are chased by a cat or by humans who are intent to harm them.
You can install a cat flap in the form 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 and composite doors are available in different thicknesses, which can affect how holes are cut and the material you're fixing it to.
If you're installing the flap on glass doors it is recommended that you consult a glazier who specialises in this type of work to avoid costly errors. If you're fitting the flap on the door made of wood, start by introduction of your cat to it prior to fitting it to allow them to be familiar with its size and shape and explore it from all angles.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
You'll need the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap you install is the perfect fit. This will help you ensure that your cat flap is placed at the correct height on the window or door, and also that it's large enough for him to get in and exit easily.
To do this, put your pet on their back and run your fingers gently along their belly. Look for a fat pad that is squishy around the lower back, face or limbs. The padding provides your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics that felines are famous for.
You can also make use of your pet's weight to determine the size of the opening you require. If your cat is at or above 5kg in weight for instance that's a 14x12cm flap for the cat is advised.
Take a measurement of your door or window
This type of cat flap, as its name suggests, is designed to be installed into the door. It lets your pet be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. They are usually made from aluminum or plastic and sit in the centre of the door. They come with the possibility of a swinging door that is opened by pushing lightly on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps that provide added security so your cat won't be able to simply traverse through the door from outside.
A window is another popular location for a cat's flap and these are easy enough to fit, although they are usually set up high as it is difficult for cats and dogs to reach them otherwise. If the window isn't sufficient to accommodate a cat's flap, you can opt for steps, ramps or stairs that are specially designed to help the animal reach it.
A cat flap can also be fitted into a brick wall, however it is not recommended unless you are experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's essential to make sure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. If they are, there must be a hole made for them. This is something you should always seek expert advice on. It's also advisable to wear safety goggles and a dust mask to avoid breathing in any sawdust that is created by cutting holes in your home's walls.
Choose the right cat flap
There are numerous cat flaps available and all of them offer various features. Some flaps are equipped with security features like microchip recognition or magnetic locks that prevent unauthorized entry. They also keep your pet from allowing friends or another animal into the home. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to keep out moisture and draughts.
There's also a range of sizes, based on the size and breed of your pet. please click the next page can be found in rectangular shapes, whereas others are square or circular. Selecting the best cat flap is determined by the space available and the type of door or window you want to attach it to.
The last thing to do is take into consideration the kind of opening mechanism your cat flap will use. cat flap in bifold doors or aluminium swing-out door is one alternative and is usually the least expensive. It will not stop other cats and pets from entering the room, and you could be letting in draughts.
Recommended Studying to install your cat flap. Start by marking the height of the belly on the door using your ruler. Use a spirit-level to make sure that the line is not too low and is in line with the door. Utilize your spirit level to draw a sketch of the flap for cats. Next, use your Jigsaw to cut the door's outline. Once you're happy with the result, sand the edges and drill through the pencil marks to create holes for the screws.
Make the Tools
Like any DIY tasks, it's best to have the proper tools for the job. You'll require the cat flap along with an eraser and tape measure along with a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the kind of door or window.
If you're installing in a composite door, you should check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes since this could invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this instance, it's likely that you will need to replace the glass with a brand 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 provided by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to mark the size hole you'll require.
After you've cut the required hole, you should then sand down the edges of the opening to smooth them. This should prevent any water damage or rust from occurring in the future. In the end, you must apply any sealant you require to the rear of the cat flap as well as to the holes in the door or window to keep out rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry, you can install your cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to come and go at will, installing flaps can aid. It's a simple procedure that most people can complete themselves, although you may require the help of an expert for installing the flap in the form of a glass door or another type of uPVC door.
Begin by studying the instructions provided with the flap to locate the template drawing. This will give you an idea of where holes need to be drilled for the flap in the door. Mark the areas where you must drill using pencil.
After you have marked the door on your door, you can use the jigsaw to cut the shape for the cat flap. It is a relatively simple task, but you will have to be comfortable using the jigsaw. Numerous companies will perform this for you for a reasonable price If you're not sure how to take on the task yourself.
Then, you can screw the inside part of the door to the hole in your door. You may need to apply sealant prior to doing this to ensure that it stays watertight and weather resistant. Then, you can put the outer part of the flap on the top of the fixing bolts and then tighten them all. You must test the cat flap on your cat to ensure that it functions properly and that it allows them to enter and exit easily.