Fitting a Cat Flap
Fitting a Cat Flap
Blog Article
Installing a cat flap into your home could be a big step for any pet owner. There are numerous options to you, regardless of whether your cat is older and needs extra security or if you have kittens who need to be examined.
Installing a cat flap can be intimidating for people who aren't professionals, but with the right instructions, it's easy to accomplish. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and accuracy.
Select the Right Door or Window
There are many different types of cat flaps, some with locks that can be used to prevent your pet from leaving or inside, and others that have modern features such as microchips or a door entry system. It is important to think about how easy it is for your cat to train to use the flap before you purchase and install one.
It's best to place the cat flap, based on the style of your house, in a window that opens into a sheltered garden area. This will help your cat feel secure when entering and leaving your home. This will also allow them to go back inside if they're pursued by a pet or human who wants to hurt them.
You can put an egress flap inside the form of a uPVC door or a glass window, but it's not as straightforward as putting one in wooden doors. This is because uPVC or composite doors come in various thicknesses. This can affect the how holes are cut and what you fix into.
If you're installing the flap inside a glass door it is recommended to find a glazier who is experienced in such work to avoid any costly mistakes. If you are fitting the flap to an existing wooden door, you should introduce your cat first so that it can become familiar with its dimensions and shape.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
You'll need the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap you choose to install is a perfect fit. This will help you ensure that the cat flap is at the correct height on the door or window, and that it is large enough for him to enter and leave easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers over their belly. Look for any squishy fat pads - these may be visible around their lower back, face and limbs. The padding gives your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics that felines are famous for.
You can also use your pet's weight to determine the size of the opening you require. If your cat is at or over 5kg, for example an opening of 14 x 12cm flap for your cat is advised.
Measure Your Door or Window
Like the name suggests, this type of cat flap is designed to be affixed to an opening and provide a way for your pet to leave or enter at any time it wishes. The flaps are made of plastic or aluminum and are located in the middle of the door. They have a two-way swinging opening that is opened by gently pushing on either side. These flaps are available in locking versions that offer added security, which means that your cat can't enter the door from outside.
A window is another common place to put a cat flap, and they are simple enough to install, though they often need to be located high enough as it's difficult for cats and dogs to reach them otherwise. If the window is too high to use a cat flap, then ramps, steps or specially built stairs can be utilized to assist the animal get access to it.
It is possible to put the cat flap onto the brick wall, however it is not recommended for people who aren't experienced in brickwork. This could cause the wall to weaken. Before you begin, it's important to make sure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. If there are, a hole needs to be created for more info them and this is something you should always seek professional advice on. It is also recommended to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust protection mask to prevent inhaling any sawdust generated by cutting into 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 have different features. Some cat flaps have security features, such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition which prevent unauthorised entry. They also prevent your pet from letting friends or other animals into the home. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to keep out get more info draughts and cat flap fitting moisture.
There's also a variety of sizes, based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, whereas others are square or more info circular. The best type of cat flap is determined by the space you have available and the kind of window or door you want to attach it to.
The last thing to do is take into consideration the kind of opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It won't stop other cats and pets from entering, and you could also be letting in draughts.
Once you've selected the right cat flap and measured your windows or doors and window, it's now time to put it in place it. Start by marking the height of the belly on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit-level to make sure the line is not too low and is straight on the door. Use your spirit level to draw a sketch of the flap for cats. Then, use a Jigsaw to cut the outline of the door. Once you are happy with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil markings to create holes for screws.
Prepare the Tools
Like all DIY tasks, it's advisable to make sure you have the proper tools to complete the task. You'll need a cat flap along with a pencil 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, consult with the manufacturer before making any changes because this could invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this instance, you'll probably have to install a new pane of toughened glass instead.
For wooden or uPVC doors, you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap with the jigsaw and follow the instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. If possible, you can use a template to help you determine the size of hole you will need to cut.
After you have cut the hole, you'll have to sand the edges of the opening. This will prevent any future water damage or rust. Finally, you should apply any sealant you require to the back of the cat flap as well as to the holes in the door or window to block rain and wind. Once the sealant has dried then you can put up your new cat flap!
Install check here the Flap
Fitting a flap will allow your cat to move around whenever it wants. Most people can put in the flap by themselves. However when you plan to install it in a glass or uPVC type door, you might need an expert.
Check out the directions that came with the cat flap. There is a template drawing. This will give an idea of where the holes will be made for the flap on the door. Mark the areas you will need to drill in using a pencil.
After you've marked the area in your door then use a jigsaw cut out the shape of the cat flap. It's a relatively easy task, but you'll need to be comfortable with the jigsaw. If you are concerned about doing this yourself, there are plenty of companies that can do this for you at a minimal cost.
Next, you will need to screw the inner part of the cat flap to the hole in your door. It is possible to apply sealant prior to making this move to ensure it stays watertight and weather resistant. Then, you can put the outer part of the cat flap on the top of the fixing bolts and tighten them all. It is recommended that you test the cat flap with your cat to make sure that it works correctly and that they are able to enter and leave easily through it.