Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in your home is an excellent option for any pet owner. There are many options available for you, whether your cat is getting older and needs extra security or if you have kittens who need to be vetted.
It can be difficult for those who aren't professionals to put in an animal flap, but with the proper instructions, it's simple. The key is preparation, planning and accuracy.
Select the Right Door, or Windows
There are a wide variety of cat flaps to choose from including some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from leaving or coming in) and others that have high-tech features like microchip door entry systems. But, it's important to consider the ease of your cat 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 sheltered garden area. This will help your cat feel secure when entering or leaving your home. This will also allow them to return inside if they are chased by other animals or human beings who wish to hurt them.
It is possible to install a cat flap in the form of a uPVC door or a glass window however, it's not as easy as putting one in the door made of wood. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses, which can affect the way holes are cut and what you're fixing into.
To avoid costly errors to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended that you consult a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you are fitting the flap onto the door made of wood it is recommended that you introduce your cat to it first so that it can become familiar with its size and shape.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
You'll need your cat's measurements to make sure that the cat flap you put in is the perfect fit. This will allow you to ensure that the cat flap is installed at the right height for the window or door, and that it is large enough to allow him to enter and out easily.
To do this, place your pet on their back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Look for any squishy fat pads which may be visible around their lower back, face, and legs. The padding gives your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics that felines are famous for.
You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you need. If your cat weighs at or over 5kg for instance, a 14 x 12cm flap for the cat is recommended.
Measure your window or door
This type of cat flap, as its name suggests is designed to be installed into the door. cat flap installers Repair My Windows And Doors lets your pet enter and exit at its convenience. They are usually made of plastic or aluminium and simply sit in the centre of the door with the possibility of a swinging door that is opened by pushing lightly on either side. The flaps are available with locking options which provide extra security so that your cat is not able to walk through the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also commonly used in windows. They can be easily installed, however they have to be set at a height where cats and dogs find it difficult to access them. If the window is not high enough to use a cat's flap, you can make use of steps, ramps or specially designed stairs to help the animal reach it.
A cat flap can be incorporated to a brick wall, but this is not recommended unless you're skilled in masonry work as it could weaken the wall's structure. It is important to make sure there aren't any cables or pipes within the wall before you start. It is recommended to consult an expert when you need to create a hole for pipes and cables. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask can help you avoid inhaling the dust that is generated when cutting into your walls.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are many different cat flaps on the market and they all have different features. Some flaps are equipped with security features, such as microchip recognition or magnetic locks which prevent unauthorised entry. They also prevent your pet from letting guests or another animal into the home. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals that keep out the elements of moisture and draughts.
There's also a variety of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are available in rectangular shapes, whereas others are circular or square. Choosing the right type of cat flap will be dictated by the space you have available and the kind of door or window you intend to install it on.
Also consider the opening mechanism that your cat flap is likely to have. The cheapest option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. However, it won't prevent other cats or pets from entering your home and you could be letting draughts in as well.
It's time to install your cat flap. Begin by marking the belly height on the door using your ruler. Use a spirit-level to ensure that the line isn't too low and is in line with the door. Utilize your spirit level to draw a template for the flap for cats. Then, using your Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. Once you are satisfied with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil markings to create holes for screws.
Make the Tools
It's essential to have the right tools available when performing any DIY project. You'll need a cat flap as well as tape measure and pencil as well as a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the type of door or window.
If you're installing in a composite door, it is recommended to check 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 you'll need to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass.
You'll require an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the instructions given by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to mark the size hole you require.
After you've made the hole, you will have to sand the edges of the opening. This will stop any water damage or rust from happening in the future. It is also recommended to cover the holes in your door or window and the back of the flap to prevent rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry and dry, you can install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
Fitting a flap will allow your cat to go and come whenever it pleases. This is a straightforward process that most people can do by themselves, though you may require the assistance of an expert if you're installing the flap in an unglazed door or any other type of uPVC door.
Look at the instructions that came with your cat flap. You will find a drawing of the template. This will give an idea of where the holes will be drilled for the flap on the door. Note the areas you'll need to drill in with a pencil.
After you've marked the area on your door, you can use the jigsaw to cut the the cat flap. This is a relatively simple job, but you'll need to be comfortable using a jigsaw. If you are concerned about doing it yourself, there are a lot of companies that can complete this for you at a low cost.
Then, screw the inner part to the hole of your door. You may have to seal it prior to making this move 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 then tighten them all. You should test the flap on your cat to confirm that it's working properly and that it allows the cat to go in and out easily.