Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in your home is a fantastic option for any pet owner. There are a variety of options to you, regardless of whether your cat is old and requires extra security, or you have kittens that require to be examined. Installing a cat flap may be intimidating for people who aren't professionals, but with the right instructions, it's not hard to do. The most important thing is planning, preparation and precision. Select the Right Door, or Windows There's a wide selection of cat flaps that are available including some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from leaving or coming in) and others that have high-tech features like microchip door entry systems. But, it's important to consider how easy it is for your cat to train to use the flap before you purchase and fit one. It is recommended to put the cat flap, depending on the design of your house, in the form of a window that opens to a sheltered garden area. This will help your cat feel secure when entering and leaving your home. If possible this will also allow them a route back in should they be chased by a cat or by a human intent to harm them. It is possible to install the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as easy as putting one on a wooden door. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in various thicknesses. This could affect the way holes are cut, and the material you put into. If replacement upvc door panels with cat flap installing the flap in the glass of a door it is recommended to consult a glazier who specialises in such work to avoid any costly errors. If you're fitting the flap on an old wooden door, begin by introducing your cat to it prior to fitting it to allow them to get used to its size and shape and explore it from all angles. Measure Your Cat's Belly To install an appropriate cat flap that is suitable for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's size. This will allow you to ensure that the cat flap is at the right height on the door or window and also that it's large enough for him to enter and leave 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 limbs. The padding provides your pet safety and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics felines are famous for. You can also use the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you require. If your cat is at or over 5kg for instance that's a 14x12cm flap for the cat is recommended. Make sure you measure your door or window This type of cat flap, as its name suggests is designed to be affixed to a door. It allows your pet to move in and out at their convenience. They are typically made of plastic or aluminium and simply are placed in the middle of the door. They have an open door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps, which provide extra security, so your cat isn't able to walk through from the outside. A window is a common location for a cat's flap and these are easy enough to put in, but they usually need to be placed high up as it's difficult for dogs and cats to reach them otherwise. If visit site is too high to be used as a cat flap, then ramps, steps, or specially constructed stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it. It is possible to put the cat flap onto brick walls, however it is not recommended for people who aren't familiar with the masonry industry. This could cause the wall to weaken. Before you begin, it is important to ensure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. If they are, an opening must be created for them and this is something that you should always seek expert advice on. Wearing protective glasses or a dust mask will ensure that you don't breathe in the sawdust that is created when cutting through your walls. Select the Right Cat Flap There are many different cat flaps available and all of them offer different features. Some are equipped with security features such as magnetic locks or microchips that stop unauthorized entry and restrict your pet from letting friends or other animals into the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to keep out draughts and moisture. There are different sizes to choose from based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular while others are square or circular. The kind of cat flap you select will depend on the size of the opening and the type of window or door you're fitting it to. Last but not least, take into consideration the kind of opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. A simple aluminium or plastic swing-out door is one choice and is typically the least expensive. However, it will not prevent other cats or pets from entering and you may let draughts in as well. It's time to install your cat flap. Make a mark on the belly of the door using a ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is exactly on the door and not too low. Use your spirit level to draw a template of the cat flap. Then, use a jigsaw to cut out the door's outline. When you're satisfied with the result, sand the edges and then drill through the pencil lines to make holes for the screws. Prepare the Tools It is essential to have the right tools when undertaking any DIY project. The most essential things you'll need are the cat flap along with a tape measure, an excellent pencil as well as a spirit level, drill, file and a jigsaw (depending on your windows or doors). Consult the manufacturer before making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to be broken. In this instance, it's likely that you'll have to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass. For wooden or uPVC doors will require cutting out the design of your cat flap with the Jigsaw. Follow the directions provided by the manufacturer. If possible, you can use an outline to help identify the dimensions of the hole you have to cut. After you've cut the hole, you'll need to sand the edges of the opening. This will help prevent future rust and water damage. You should also seal the holes in your door or window and the back of the flap to block rain and wind. After the sealant has dried and dry, you can install your new cat flap! Install the Flap Installing a flap allows your cat to go and come whenever it wants. This is a straightforward process that most people can complete themselves, although you will likely need to hire a professional if you are installing the flap on a glass door or other kind of uPVC door. Begin by studying the instructions that come with your cat flap to find the template drawing. This will give an idea of the location where the holes are to be drilled for the flap in the door. Then, mark the places where you need to drill with a pencil. After you've marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw to cut the design for the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task however, you'll need to be comfortable with a saw. If you are concerned about doing it yourself, there are many companies that can complete this for you at a low 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 doing this to ensure that it is weather and water resistant. The outside of your cat flap may be placed on the bolts on top, and then tightened together. You must test the cat flap on your cat to make sure that it is working correctly and that it allows them to enter and exit easily.