Fitting a Cat Flap
Fitting a Cat Flap
Blog Article
Getting a cat flap fitted in to your home can be a major step for any pet owner. If your cat is old and needs extra security or you have a new kitten that require a thorough screening There are plenty of options there for you.
Installing a cat flap could be a daunting task for novices, however, with the proper instructions, it's not difficult to accomplish. Preparation, planning and precision are the key to success.
Choose the Right Door or Windows
There are a wide 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 advanced features such as microchip door entry systems. However, it's important to think about the ease of your cat to train to use the flap prior to making a purchase and fit one.
It is recommended to put the cat flap, based on the style of your house, in an opening that leads into a sheltered garden area. This will help your cat feel secure when entering and leaving your home. This will also allow them to get back inside in the event of being chased by other animals or human beings who wish to hurt them.
It's possible to install a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it's not as simple as installing one on a wooden door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors come in various thicknesses, which affect how holes are cut and the material you're fixing it to.
To avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended to consult a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If you're installing the flap in a wooden door, start by the cat with it before you fit it so that they can get used to its shape and size and explore it from all angles.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
In order to put in an appropriate cat flap that is a good fit for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's size. This will ensure that the flap is at the right height on your door or window and that it's big enough for them to enter and out easily.
To do this, put your pet on their back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back, face or legs. The padding gives your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics that felines are known for.
You can also use the weight of your pet to determine the size of opening you require. If your cat is at or over 5kg, for example an opening of 14 x 12cm flap for your cat is recommended.
Measure your windows or doors
As the name suggests the cat flap is designed to be affixed to a door and provides an opportunity for your pet to enter or leave whenever it wants. They are usually made from plastic or aluminium and simply rest in the middle of the door. They come with the possibility of a swinging door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. These flaps are available with locking options which provide extra security so that your cat is not able to traverse the door from outside.
A window is another common place to put a cat flap, and they are simple enough to fit, although they are usually set up high as it is difficult for dogs and cats to reach them otherwise. If the window is too high to use a cat flap, then ramps, steps, or specially built stairs can be used to aid the animal in accessing it.
Cat flaps can also be fitted into a brick wall, however this is not recommended unless you are familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it's important to make sure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. If there are, then an opening must be created for them and this is something that you should always seek professional advice on. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask can help you avoid inhaling the sawdust that is created when cutting into your walls.
Choose the right cat flap
There are numerous cat flaps available and all of them offer various features. Some are equipped here with security features such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition to prevent unauthorized entry and also stop your pet allowing guests or other animals to enter the home. Some have weatherproof seals and insulation to block out the elements and keep out check here drafts.
There are various sizes available depending on the breed and size of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are square or circular. Choosing the right type of cat flap is determined by the space you have available as well as the type of window or door you intend to install it on.
Last but not least, take into consideration the kind of opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. A simple aluminum or plastic swing-out door is a good choice and is typically the cheapest. However, it will not stop other pets or cats from entering your home and you could let draughts in too.
It's time to install your cat flap. Mark the belly height of the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is exactly on the door and not too low. Utilize your spirit level to draw a template for the flap for cats. Then, using your saw, cut out the outline of the door. When you're happy with the results sand down the edges and drill through the pencil marks to create holes get more info for the screws.
Make sure you have the tools ready
As with any DIY jobs, it's always recommended to have the proper tools to complete the task. You'll need a cat flap along with an eraser and tape measure along with a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the kind of door or window.
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 broken. In this instance, you'll probably have to install a new pane of toughened glass instead.
You'll need to use the jigsaw to cut your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions that are provided by the manufacturer. If you can, use a template to help you identify the dimensions of the hole you will need to cut.
After you've cut the required hole, you should then sand the edges of click here the opening to smooth them. This will prevent the possibility of water damage and rust. In the end, you must apply any sealant you require to the rear of the cat flap, and to the holes in the door or window to keep out the elements of wind and rain. After the sealant has dried it is time to install your cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to go and come whenever it wants, installing flaps can be helpful. Most people can install the flap by themselves. However when you plan to install it on a glass or uPVC type door, you may need an expert.
Look at the instructions included with your cat flap. You will find an illustration of the template. This will give you an idea of the location where the holes are to be made for the flap to be placed in the door. Mark the areas you will have to drill using a pencil.
After you have mapped out the area in your door, use a jigsaw to cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a relatively easy task, but you will need to be comfortable using the jigsaw. Many companies will complete this work for you at a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to take on the task yourself.
Next, you will need to attach the interior part of the cat flap to the door's hole. You may need to apply sealant before making this move to ensure it remains weather-proof and water resistant. You can then put the outer section of the flap on the top of the fixing bolts, and tighten the bolts all together. It is recommended to test the cat flap with your cat to ensure that it works correctly and that they read more are able to get in and out of it.