Fitting a Cat Flap
Fitting a Cat Flap
Blog Article
Getting a cat flap fitted into your home could be a big step for any pet owner. There are numerous options for you, no matter if your cat is older and requires additional security or if you have kittens who need to be checked.
Installing a cat flap could be a daunting task for novices, but with the right instructions, it's not hard to accomplish. The most important thing is planning, preparation and precision.
Select the Right Door or Windows
There are a variety of cat flaps available, some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet going out or entering) and others with advanced features such as microchips for door entry systems. It's important to think about how it is easy to teach your cat how to use the flap before you purchase and install one.
Based on the style of your house It is recommended to put the cat flap inside a window or door that opens onto an area that is protected from the garden so that your cat is secure when going into and out of the house. This will also allow them to go back inside if they are chased by another animal or humans who want to hurt them.
It's possible to install the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as easy as putting one into a wood door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors are available in a variety of thicknesses, which can affect how holes are cut and the material you're fixing it to.
To avoid costly errors, it is recommended to consult a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a door with a glass front. If you're fitting the flap on a wooden door, start by introduction of your cat to it before you fit it to allow them to become familiar with its shape and size and explore it from every angle.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
To install a cat flap that's suitable for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's height. This will allow you to ensure that your cat flap is installed at the correct height on the door or window and that it is large enough for him to get in and out easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers across their belly. Feel for any fat pads that are squishy that may be visible around their lower back, face and the limbs. The padding provides your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the acrobatics cats are famous for.
You can also use the weight of your pet to determine how large opening you require. If your cat is up to 5Kg in weight for instance, a 14 x 12cm cat flap opening is recommended.
Take a measurement of your windows or doors
The name implies, this type of cat flap is made to be attached to a door and provides a way for your pet to enter or leave whenever it wants. The flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that can be opened by lightly pushing on either side. There are locks on some of these flaps that offer additional security to ensure that your cat won't be able to simply walk through from the outside.
A window is another popular location for a cat flap and these are easy enough to fit, although they usually need to be set up high as it is difficult for cats and dogs to access them. If the window 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 a cat flap into a brickwall, but it is not recommended for those who are not experienced in check here brickwork. This could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it's essential to make sure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. If there are, a hole needs to be created for them and this is something that you should always seek expert advice on. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask will help you avoid inhaling the sawdust that is created when cutting into your walls.
Choose the right cat flap
There are website a variety of cat flaps on the market and each one comes with various features. Some come with security options such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition to prevent unauthorized entry and also restrict your pet from letting guests or other animals to enter the house. Certain seals are weatherproof click here and have insulation to block out the elements and keep out drafts.
There are also different sizes to choose from based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, while others are square or circular. Selecting the best cat flap will be determined by the space you have available and the kind of door or window you intend to install it on.
Also think about the mechanism for opening your cat flap will have. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is an option and is usually the least expensive. It won't stop other animals and cats from entering however, and you could be letting in drafts.
It's time to put in your cat flap. Begin by marking the belly height on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure the line isn't too low and that it is straight across the door. Create a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Next, use your jigsaw to cut out the outline in the door. When you're satisfied with the results sand down the here edges and then drill through the pencil lines to make holes for the screws.
Make the Tools
As with all DIY tasks, it's best to have the right website tools for the job. You'll need a cat flap along with tape measure and pencil as well as a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the type of door or window.
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 instance 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 using a Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines given by the manufacturer. If you can, use a template to help you determine the size of the hole you will need to cut.
After you've made the hole, you should then sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop future rust and water damage. You should also cover the holes in your window or door and the back of the flap to block rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry and dry, you can install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to move around whenever it wants, installing a flap can help. This is a straightforward process that most people can complete on their own, but you'll likely need to hire an expert if you're installing the flap in the form of a glass door or another type of uPVC door.
Begin by reading the instructions that come with your cat flap to find the template drawing. This will give an idea of where the holes are to be drilled for the flap in the door. Note the areas you'll have to drill with a pencil.
Once you have marked out the door's area then use a jigsaw cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task, but you'll need to be comfortable using a Jigsaw. Many companies will do this work for you for a reasonable price If you're not sure how to take on the task yourself.
Next, you will need to attach the interior part of the flap onto the door's hole. You may need to apply sealant prior to doing this to ensure it remains weather-proof and water resistant. Then, you can put the outer portion of the flap on the top of the fixing bolts and then tighten the bolts all 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.