Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in your home is a fantastic step for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have a new kitten who require a vet check There are plenty of options there for you.
It can be intimidating for non-professionals to install the cat flap, but with right instructions it's easy. The most important thing is planning, preparation and accuracy.
Choose the Right Door, or Window
There are a variety of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to keep your pet from leaving or in and others with advanced features like microchips for door entry system. It is important to consider how easy it will be to train your cat to use the flap before you buy and install one.
It is best to place the cat flap, based on the style of your home, inside a window that opens into a sheltered garden area. This will help your cat feel safe when entering or leaving your home. This will also enable them to go back inside if they're chased by other animals or humans who want to harm them.
You can install an egress flap inside a uPVC door or glass window however, it's not as simple as fitting one into wooden doors. It's because uPVC or composite doors are available in different thicknesses. This could affect the way holes are cut, and what you fix into.
To avoid costly mistakes to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended to consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If you're installing the flap to an old wooden door, begin by the cat with it before you fit it to allow them to become familiar with its shape and size, 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 a perfect fit. This will ensure that the flap is at the right height on your window or door and that it's wide enough for them to enter and exit easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers over their belly. Feel for any squishy fat pads which may be visible around their lower back, face, and legs. The padding gives your pet safety and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics felines are known for.
You can also take into account the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you need. If your cat weighs more than 5kg, for instance, the suggested cat flap size is 14x12cm.
Make sure you measure your windows or doors
The name implies, this type of cat flap is designed to be fixed into the door, and offers a way for your pet to go in or out at any time it wishes. They are usually made of aluminum or plastic and rest in the middle of the door with a two-way swinging door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. These flaps can be locked that provide additional security so your cat cannot simply enter the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also often employed in windows. They are able to be easily installed, but they have to be set at a height where cats and dogs find it difficult to access them. If the window isn't sufficient in height to be used as a cat's flap, then you can opt for ramps, steps, or specially designed stairs to assist the animal in reaching it.
A cat flap can also be fitted to a brick wall, but it is not recommended unless you're familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the wall's structure. upvc door panels with cat flap is important to make sure there aren't any cables and pipes in the wall prior to you start. Always consult an expert if you have to cut a hole in the wall for pipes or cables. It's also advisable to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust protection mask to prevent inhaling any sawdust that is created by cutting through your home's walls.
Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.
There are numerous cat flaps on the market and each one comes with various features. Some cat flaps have security features like microchip recognition or magnetic locks that prevent unauthorized entry. They also prevent your pet from letting guests or other animals into the home. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to keep out draughts and moisture.
There are various sizes to choose from based on the breed and size of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, whereas others are square or circular. The kind of cat flap you pick will depend on the size of the opening and the kind of door or window you're fixing it to.
The last thing to do is consider the type of opening mechanism your cat flap will use. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It won't stop other pets and cats from entering however, and you could be letting in draughts.
Once you have selected the appropriate cat flap and measured the door or window and window, it's now time to put it in place it. Start by marking the belly height on the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is exactly on the door and not too low. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Next, use your jigsaw to cut out the door's outline. Once you're happy with the result, sand the edges and then drill through the pencil lines to make holes for the screws.
Prepare the Tools
It's essential to have the right tools when doing any DIY project. You'll need the cat flap, an eraser and tape measure, a spirit-level, a drill and a jigsaw depending on the kind of door or window.
If you're installing a composite door, you should consult with the manufacturer prior to making any changes as this may invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this case you'll likely have to install an additional pane of toughened glass instead.
You'll need to use an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the instructions given by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to determine the size of hole you'll need.
After upvc door panel with cat flap made the hole, you will have to sand off the edges of the opening. This will prevent any water damage or rust from happening in the near future. In the end, you must apply any sealant you require to the rear of the cat flap, and to the holes in the door or window to keep out the elements of wind and rain. When 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 be able to come and go at will, installing a flap can help. Most people can install the flap on their own. However should you wish to install it in the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you may require an expert.
Take a look at the instructions that came with your cat flap. There is a drawing of the template. This will give an idea of where holes need to be drilled for the flap on the door. Mark the areas that you'll must drill using a pencil.
After you have marked the area on your door, you can use the jigsaw to cut the design for the cat flap. It's a relatively easy task however, you'll need to be comfortable using a saw. If you are concerned about doing this yourself, there are many companies that can do this for you at a low cost.
Next, you will need to attach the inside of the flap onto the door's hole. 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 together. It is recommended that you test the cat flap with your cat to ensure that it functions properly and that they are able to move easily through it.