Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap into your home could be a huge step for any pet owner. There are many options available to you, regardless of whether your cat is getting older and requires additional security or if you have kittens who need to be vetted.

Installing a cat flap could be a daunting task for novices, but, with the right instructions, it's easy to do. The most important thing is planning, preparation and accuracy.

Choose the Right Door, or Window

There are a variety of cat flaps that are available including some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from going out or entering) and others with high-tech features such as microchips for door entry systems. But, it's important to think about the ease of your cat to teach to use the flap before you buy and install one.

It is best to place the cat flap, based on the style of your home, inside a window that opens into an area of the garden that is protected. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering and leaving your home. This will also allow them to get back inside in the event of being pursued by a pet or human beings who wish to harm them.

It is possible to install a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it's not the same as fitting one in a wood door. It's because uPVC or composite doors are available in different thicknesses. This could affect the method of cutting holes, and the material you put to.

To avoid costly errors, it is recommended that you consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a door with a glass front. 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 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 install is a perfect fit. This will allow you to ensure that your cat flap is placed at the right height on the door or window and that it's big enough for him to enter and leave easily.

To do this, lay your pet on their back and gently rub your fingers across their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back and face, as well as the limbs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline Acrobatics.

You can also use the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you need. If your cat weighs at or above 5kg in weight for instance, a 14 x 12cm flap for your cat is recommended.

Make sure you measure your door or window

This type of cat flap, as the name suggests is designed to be installed into the door. It lets your pet be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. They are usually made of plastic or aluminium and simply sit in the centre of the door. They come with a two-way swinging door that opens by pushing lightly on either side. These flaps are available in locking versions that provide additional security so your cat cannot simply walk through the door from outside.

A window is a common place to put a cat flap and these are easy enough to fit, although they usually need to be set up high as it is difficult for dogs and cats to access them. If the window isn't high enough to use a cat's flap, you can use ramps, steps, or specially designed stairs to assist the animal in reaching it.

It is possible to insert an egress into a brickwall, but it is not recommended for those who aren't experienced more info in masonry. This could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it's essential to make sure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. If they are, an opening must be created for them and this is something you should always seek professional advice on. It's also advisable to wear protective goggles and a dust protection mask to prevent inhaling any of the sawdust created by cutting into your home's walls.

Choose the Cat Flap get more info that is right for you.

There are a variety of cat flaps on the market and they all have various features. Certain cat flaps come with security features, such as magnetic locks or microchips that prevent unauthorized entry. They also keep your pet from allowing friends or another animal into the house. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals that keep out the elements of moisture and draughts.

There are also different sizes that are available based on the breed and size of your pet. Certain cat flaps are available in rectangular shapes, while others are square or circular. The type of cat flap you pick will depend on the size of the opening and the type of window or door you're fitting it to.

Lastly, think about the opening mechanism that your cat flap will have. A simple aluminum or plastic swing-out door is an alternative and is usually the least expensive. However, it won't keep other animals or cats from entering and you may let draughts through as well.

It's time to put in your cat flap. Begin by marking the belly's height on the door using your ruler. Use a spirit-level to make sure that the line isn't too low and is in line with the door. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, you can use your Jigsaw to cut the door's outline. When you're happy with the results sand down the edges and then drill through the pencil lines to create holes for the screws.

Make the Tools

Like any DIY tasks, it's recommended to have the appropriate get more info tools to complete the task. You'll require the cat flap along with tape measure and pencil, a spirit-level, a drill and a jigsaw depending on the type of door or window.

Check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal damaged. In this case you'll likely have to install a new pane of toughened glass instead.

You'll need the jigsaw to cut your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions given by the manufacturer. If possible, you can use an example to identify the size of hole more info you'll have to cut.

After you've made the hole, you will have to sand off the edges of the opening. This will stop future rust and water damage. It is also recommended to seal the holes in your door or window and the side of the flap to keep out wind and rain. When the sealant has dried, you're ready to install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

The installation of a flap will allow your cat to come and go whenever it wants. Most people can put in the flap themselves. However when you plan to put it in a glass or uPVC type door, you may require an expert.

Begin by reading the instructions included with the flap to locate the template drawing. This will provide you with an idea of where the holes for the flap have to be made in the door. Mark the areas in which you will need to drill with the pencil.

After you have marked the door on your door, use the jigsaw and cut out the shape for the cat flap. This is a fairly simple job, but you'll require a good understanding of the saw. If you are worried about doing it yourself, there are more info plenty of businesses that can handle this for you at a minimal cost.

Then, you can screw the inside part to the hole in your door. You may have to seal it prior to making this move to ensure it remains weather-proof and water resistant. Then, you can put the outer section of the cat flap on top of the fixing bolts and tighten the bolts all together. You must test the cat flap on your cat to make sure that it's working properly and allows them to exit and enter easily.