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. If 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 could be intimidating for people who aren't professionals, however, with the proper instructions, it's easy to complete. The most important thing is planning, preparation and accuracy.

Choose the Right Door, or Window

There are a variety of cat flaps, including some with locks that can be used to prevent your pet from leaving or in, while others have modern features such as microchips or a door entry system. It is important to consider how it is easy to train your cat to use the flap, before you buy and install one.

Depending on the design of your house, it's usually best to put the cat flap inside an opening or window that opens to an area of protection in the garden so your cat is secure when entering and leaving the home. If you can this will also allow them a way back case they are pursued by a different cat or by humans who are intent on harming them.

It's possible to install a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't the same as fitting one in a wood door. This is because uPVC or composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses. This can impact the method of cutting holes, and the type of door you can fix to.

To avoid costly errors It is recommended to consult a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If you're installing the flap to a wooden door, you should introduce your cat to it at first so that it can become familiar with its size and shape.

Take a look at your cat's belly measurement

You'll need your cat's measurements to ensure that the cat flap you install is a good fit. This will allow you to make sure that the flap is installed at the right height for the door or window, and also that it's large enough for him to get in and exit easily.

To do this, lay your pet on their back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Look for any squishy fat pads - these might be visible around their lower back, face and legs. The extra padding offers your pet safety and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics that felines are famous for.

You can also consider your pet's weight as a way to determine the size of an opening you need. If your cat weighs more than 5kg, for instance the suggested flap size is 14x12cm.

Make sure you measure your door or window

The name implies, this type of cat flap is designed to be fixed into a door and provides the pet with a way to enter or leave as it pleases. They are usually made from plastic or aluminium and simply are placed in the middle of the door with the possibility of a swinging door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. They can be locked that offer added security, so your cat cannot simply walk through the door from outside.

A window is another popular location for a cat flap and these are easy enough to put in, but they often need to be set up high as it is difficult for dogs and cats to access them. If the window is not sufficient to accommodate the flap for cats, you can make use of ramps, steps, or specially designed stairs to aid the animal in getting to it.

A cat flap can be incorporated into a brick wall but this is not recommended unless you are skilled in masonry work as it could weaken the structure of the wall. It's important to check that there are no cables and pipes within the wall before you start. If there are, then there must be a hole created for them and this is something you should always seek professional advice on. It is also recommended to wear safety goggles and a dust protection mask to prevent inhaling any of the sawdust created by cutting holes in your home's walls.

Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.

There are numerous cat flaps that are available website on the market, and all offer different features. Some flaps are equipped with security features like magnetic locks or microchips that prevent unauthorized entry. They also stop your pet from allowing friends or animals to enter the house. Some have weatherproof seals and insulation to block out draughts and moisture.

There are various sizes that are available based on the size and breed of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, whereas others are square or circular. Selecting the best cat flap is determined by the space you have available and the kind of door or window you intend to install it on.

The last thing to do is take into consideration the kind of opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. However, it will not stop other pets or cats from gaining access and you could let draughts in as well.

It's time to put in your cat flap. Start by marking the height of the belly on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit-level to make sure the line isn't too low and is straight on the door. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Next, use your jigsaw to cut out the outline of the door. When you are satisfied with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil markings to make holes for screws.

Prepare the Tools

As with all DIY tasks, it's advisable to make sure you have the proper tools for the job. You'll require the cat flap, tape measure and pencil, a spirit-level, a drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the kind of door or window.

If you're installing a composite door, consult with the manufacturer before making any changes, as this may affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this instance it's likely more info you'll need to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.

You'll need to use an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. If possible, use an outline to help mark out the dimensions of the hole you have to cut.

After you've cut the required hole, you'll need to smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will help prevent any future water damage or rust. In the end, you must apply any sealant that is needed to the back of the cat flap and to the holes in the window or door to keep out rain and wind. After the sealant has dried then you can put up your new cat-flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to come and go whenever it wants, installing a flap can upvc cat flap door panels help. This is a straightforward process that most people can do on their own, but you'll likely require the help of a professional if you are installing the flap on an unglazed door or any other type of uPVC door.

Check out the directions that came with the cat flap. There is a drawing more info of the template. This will give an idea of where the holes are to be made for the flap on the door. Mark the areas that you'll need to drill with pencil.

After you have marked the door on your door, you can use the jigsaw to cut the the cat flap. It is a relatively simple job, but you'll need to be comfortable using a Jigsaw. If you are concerned about doing this yourself, there are many companies that can do 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 may be necessary to seal the flap before you do this, in order to keep it weatherproof and watertight. The outer part of your cat flap can be placed on the bolts' website tops and then tightened together. You should test the cat flap on your cat to confirm that it functions properly and allows them to enter and exit easily.