Fitting a Cat Flap
Fitting a Cat Flap
Blog Article
Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is a great option 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 out there for you.
Installing a cat flap may be intimidating for people who aren't professionals, but with the right instructions, it's not hard to do. Preparation, planning and precision are the most important factors.
Select the Right Door or Window
There are a variety of cat flaps that are available, some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet going out or entering) and others with high-tech features such as microchip door entry systems. However, it's important to think about how easy your cat is to train to use the flap before you buy and install one.
Depending on the style of your home, it's generally best to place the cat flap inside a window or door that opens to a sheltered area of the garden so your cat will feel secure entering and leaving the home. If you can, this will also give them a way back case they are chased by another cat or by humans who are intent to harm them.
It's possible to put a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as simple as installing one on a wooden door. This is because uPVC and composite doors are available in a variety of thicknesses, and this can impact the way holes are cut as well as what you're fixing to.
If you're installing the flap on the glass of a door it is recommended to consult a glazier who specialises in such work to avoid costly errors. If you're fitting the flap to an old wooden door, begin by introducing your cat to it prior to fitting it so that they can get used to its size and shape and explore it from every angle.
Find out the size of your cat's belly
In order to install an appropriate cat flap that is a good fit for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat. This will enable you to ensure that your cat flap is installed at the correct height on the door or window and that it's big enough for 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 squishy fat pad around the lower back and face, as well as the legs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline acrobatics.
You can also make use of your pet's weight to determine the size of the opening you'll need. If your cat is at or over 5kg for instance an opening of 14 x 12cm flap for the cat is recommended.
Take a measurement of your door or window
This kind of cat flap, as the name suggests is made to be fitted into the door. It lets your pet be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. They are typically made of aluminum or plastic and sit in the centre of the door with a two-way swinging door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. There are locks on some of these flaps that offer added security so your cat can't simply enter the door from the outside.
A window is another popular location for a check here cat's flap, and they're easy enough to put in, but they are usually set up high as it is 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 more info get access to it.
It is possible to insert an egress into brick walls, however it is not recommended for people who are not experienced in the masonry industry. This could cause the wall to weaken. Before you begin, it's essential to ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. If there are, a hole needs to be created for them and this is something that you should always seek professional advice on. Wearing protective glasses or a dust mask can help you avoid inhaling the sawdust that is created when cutting through your walls.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are many cat flaps available on the market, and they all offer different features. Certain cat flaps come with security features such as microchip recognition or magnetic locks which prevent unauthorised entry. They also prevent your pet from allowing friends or animals to enter the home. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to block water and drafts.
There's also a range of sizes, based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are circular or square. The best type of cat flap will be determined by the space you have available and the kind of door or window you are fitting it to.
Also consider the mechanism for opening your cat flap will come with. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is a good option and is usually the least expensive. However, it won't stop other pets or cats from entering and you may be letting draughts in as well.
It's time to here install your cat flap. Start by marking the height of the belly on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the read more line is straight on the door and not too low. Use your spirit level to draw a sketch of the cat flap. Then, using a Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. Once you are satisfied with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.
Make the Tools
As with any DIY jobs, it's always recommended to have the appropriate tools for the job. You'll need the cat flap along with tape measure and pencil, a spirit-level, a drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the type of window or door.
Contact the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a door made of composite. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal to be broken. In this scenario you'll need to fit an additional pane of toughened glass instead.
For wooden or uPVC doors you'll need to cut out the shape of your cat flap with the jigsaw and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Use a template to mark the size hole you'll need.
After you've made the hole, you should then smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This should prevent any rust or water damage from happening in the near future. It is also recommended to seal the holes in your window or door and the side of the flap to prevent wind and rain. After the sealant has dried, you can install your cat flap!
Install the Flap
Fitting a flap will allow your cat to move around whenever it wishes. Most people can install the flap themselves. 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 included with the cat flap. You will find a template drawing. This will provide you with an idea of where the holes for the flap need to be drilled into the door. Mark the areas you'll have to drill with a pencil.
After you have mapped out the area in your door and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a relatively easy task, but you will have to be comfortable using the saw. If you are concerned about doing it yourself, there are many companies that can complete this for you at a very low cost.
The next step is to screw the inner part of the flap onto the door's hole. It may be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this, in order to keep it weatherproof and watertight. Then, you can put the outer portion get more info of the flap on the top of the fixing bolts and tighten them all. It is recommended that you test the flap with your cat to make sure that it works correctly and that they can move easily through it.