Fitting a Cat Flap
Fitting a Cat Flap
Blog Article
Installing a cat flap in your home is a fantastic option for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and needs extra security or you have new kittens who require a vet check There are plenty of options out there to choose from.
It can be difficult for people who aren't experts in installing the cat flap, but with proper instructions, it's simple. The most important thing is planning, preparation and precision.
Choose the Right Door or Windows
There are a variety of cat flaps available that come with locks (which can be used to stop your pet going out or entering) and others with high-tech features like microchip door entry systems. However, it's important to think about how easy your cat is to train to use the flap prior to making a buy and install one.
It's best to place the cat flap, based on the style of your house, in a window that opens 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 allow them a way back case they are chased by a cat or by a human intent on harming them.
It is possible to install a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it's not as easy as putting one in a wood door. It's because uPVC or composite doors come in different thicknesses. This can affect the way holes are cut, and the material you put to.
To avoid costly errors, it is recommended that you consult a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you're fitting the flap into an existing wooden door it is recommended that you introduce your cat to it first so that it can become familiar with its size and shape.
Find out the size of your cat's belly
In order to install an appropriate cat flap that is the right size for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat's size. This will enable you to ensure that your cat flap is placed at the right height on the door or window, and that it's big enough to allow him to enter and leave easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Feel for any fat pads that are squishy that could be visible on their lower back, face, and the limbs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline circus skills.
Alternatively, you can also make use of your pet's weight to determine the size of an opening you require. If your cat is up to 5Kg in weight, for example an opening of 14 x 12cm flap for the cat is advised.
Take a measurement of your window or door
As the name suggests this kind of cat flap is designed to be fixed into a door and provides the pet with a way to enter or leave as it pleases. They are typically made of plastic or aluminium and simply 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. The flaps are available in locking versions that provide additional security so your cat cannot simply traverse the door from outside.
A window is another common place to put a cat flap, and they're easy enough to put in, but they are usually placed high up as it's difficult for cats and dogs to access them. If the window is not sufficient to accommodate a cat's flap, you can use steps, ramps or stairs that are specially designed to assist the animal in reaching it.
Cat flaps can be incorporated to a brick wall, but it is not recommended unless you are familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the structure of the wall. It is essential to ensure that there are no cables and pipes inside the wall before you start. If they are, there must be a hole made for them. This is something you should always seek expert advice on. It is also recommended here to wear protective goggles and a dust-proof mask to avoid inhaling click here any of the sawdust created by cutting holes in website the walls of your home.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are many different cat flaps on the market and all of them offer various features. Some flaps are equipped with security features, such as microchip recognition or magnetic locks that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also prevent your pet from letting friends or animals to enter the home. Some have weatherproof seals and insulation to block out draughts and moisture.
There's also a variety of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are available in rectangular shapes, whereas others are square or circular. The kind of cat flap you choose will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the type of window or door you're fitting it to.
Finally get more info think about the mechanism to open your cat flap is likely to have. A simple aluminum or plastic swing-out door is an choice and is typically the least expensive. But, it will not keep other animals or cats from entering your home and you could let draughts in as well.
It's time to put in your cat flap. Make a mark on the belly of the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is sitting straight against the door click here and not too low. Use your spirit level to draw a template for the flap for cats. Then, using a saw, cut out the outline of the door. When you're happy with the result, sand the edges and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for screws.
Prepare the Tools
Like all DIY tasks, it's advisable to make sure you have the right tools to complete the task. You'll need a cat flap, a pencil and tape measure along with a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the type of window or door.
If you're installing a composite door, consult with the manufacturer before making any alterations as this may cause the warranty to be invalidated or break the weathertight seal. In this scenario, it's likely that you'll need to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.
You'll require an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions given by the manufacturer. Make use of a template to mark the size hole you need.
After you've made the hole, you will have to sand off the edges of the opening. This will stop any rust or water damage from occurring in the future. You should also cover the holes in your door or window and the back of the flap to block wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry, you can install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to go and come as it pleases, fitting flaps can aid. It's a simple procedure that most people can do themselves, although you may require the help of a professional if you are installing the flap in an unglazed door or any other type of uPVC door.
Look at the instructions included with the cat flap. You will find an illustration of the template. This will give you an idea of where the holes for the flap have to be drilled into the door. Note the areas you'll need to drill into using a pencil.
After you've marked the area on your door, you can use the jigsaw to cut the design for the cat flap. This is a relatively simple task, but you'll need to be comfortable using the Jigsaw. If you are worried about doing it yourself, there are plenty of businesses that can handle this for you at a very low cost.
Next, you will need to attach the inside of the cat flap to 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 then tighten the bolts all together. You must test the cat flap on your cat to ensure that it is working correctly and allows the cat to go in and out easily.