Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is an excellent step for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and needs extra security or you have a new kitten that need to be vetted there are a lot of options there to choose from.

It can be a bit daunting for non-professionals to install a cat flap, but with the proper instructions, it's simple. The most important thing is planning, preparation and accuracy.

Choose the Right Door or Window

There are many different types of cat flaps, including some with locks that can be used to stop your pet from leaving or in, while others have high tech features like microchip door entry systems. It is important to think about how easy your cat is to train to use the flap prior to making a purchase and install one.

Based on the style of your home, it's generally best to put the cat flap inside a window or door that opens onto an area of protection in the garden, so that your cat is secure when going into and out of the house. This will also enable them to return inside in the event of being pursued by a pet or human beings who wish to harm them.

You can install an egress flap inside a uPVC door or glass window however it's not as simple as putting one in wooden doors. This is because uPVC and composite doors are available in different thicknesses, and this can impact the way holes are cut and the materials you're fixing them to.

If you're installing the flap inside a glass door, it's recommended that you seek out a glazier that is skilled in such work to avoid costly mistakes. If you're fitting the flap to a wooden door, start by introducing your cat to it prior to fitting it, so that they be familiar with its shape and size and explore it from every angle.

Take a look at your cat's belly measurement

You'll need the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you install is a perfect fit. This will allow you to 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 out easily.

To do this, put your pet on their back and run your fingers gently across their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back and face, as well as the limbs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline Acrobatics.

You can also use the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you require. If your cat weighs more than 5kg, for instance the suggested cat flap opening size is 14 x 12cm.

Measure your door or window

This kind of cat flap, as its name suggests is made to be fitted into a door. It allows your pet to be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. They are usually made of aluminum or plastic and rest in the middle of the door. They have the possibility of a swinging door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. There are locks on some of these flaps, which provide added security so your cat can't simply walk through from the outside.

A window is another common location for a cat flap, and they are simple enough to install, though they often need to be placed high up as it's difficult for dogs and cats to access them. If the window is too high to be used as a cat flap, ramps, steps or specially built stairs can be used to help the animal access it.

It is possible to install the cat flap onto brick walls, however it is not recommended for people who aren't experienced in brickwork. This could weaken the wall's structure. It is important to make sure there aren't any cables or pipes in the wall prior to you begin. You should always consult an expert when you need to cut a hole in the wall for cables and pipes. It is also recommended to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust-proof mask to avoid breathing in any sawdust generated by cutting into the walls of your home.

Select the Right Cat Flap

There are many different cat flaps on the market and they all have different features. Some cat flaps have security features, such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition which prevent unauthorised entry. They also stop your pet from allowing friends or animals to enter the home. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to keep out the elements of moisture and draughts.

There's also a range of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular, while others are circular or square. Choosing the right type of cat flap will be determined by the space available as well as the type of window or door you are fitting it to.

The last thing to do is think about the opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. A simple aluminum or plastic swing-out door is an alternative and is usually the least expensive. It won't stop other animals and cats from entering however, and you could be letting in drafts.

After you've chosen click here the right cat flap and measured your door or window then it's time to install it. Mark the belly height of the door using a ruler. Make use of a spirit-level to make sure that the line isn't too low and is in line with the door. Create a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Next, use your saw to cut out the outline in the door. When you're happy with the result, sand the edges and drill through the pencil lines to create holes for the screws.

Prepare the Tools

It's important to have the right tools for performing any DIY project. The most important things you'll require are website the cat flap itself, a tape measure and an excellent pencil as well as a spirit level, drill, file and click here an Jigsaw (depending on your door or window type).

Check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a door made of composite. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to become broken. In this instance, it's likely that you'll have to replace the glass with a brand new piece of toughened glass.

You'll require more info an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the instructions given by the manufacturer. If you can, use an example to mark out the size of hole you need to cut.

After you've made the hole, you should then sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop the possibility of water damage and rust. Finally, you should apply any sealant that is needed to the back of the cat flap, and to the holes in the window or door to block the elements of wind and rain. After the sealant has dried, you're ready to install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to be able to move around as website it pleases, fitting flaps can be helpful. The majority of people can install the flap by themselves. However, if you want to install it on a glass or uPVC type door, you may require an expert.

Begin by reading the instructions that come with the flap to locate the drawing template. This will give an idea of where holes need to be made for the flap in the door. Note the areas you'll have to drill with a pencil.

After you've marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw to cut the the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task however, you'll need to be comfortable using the jigsaw. Numerous companies will perform this task for you at a reasonable price if you are hesitant to do it yourself.

The next step is to attach the interior part of the flap onto the door's hole. You may need to seal it prior to doing this to ensure it stays watertight and weather resistant. You can then put the outer part of the cat flap on the top of the fixing bolts, and tighten the bolts all together. It is recommended that you test the cat flap with your cat to ensure that it works correctly and that they are able to move easily through it.