Fitting a Cat Flap

Fitting a Cat Flap

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Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is a fantastic option for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and needs extra security or you have new kittens that require a thorough screening there are a lot of options there for you.

It can be a bit daunting for people who aren't experts in installing a cat flap, but with the proper instructions, it's simple. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the key to success.

Select the Right Door or Windows

There are many different types of cat flaps, some with locks that can be used to prevent your pet from going out or in and others with modern features such as microchips or a door entry systems. It is important to consider how it is easy to teach your cat to use the flap before you purchase and install one.

It's best to place the cat flap, based on the design of your house, in a window that opens into a garden that is sheltered. This will allow your cat to feel safe when entering or leaving your home. If you can it will also provide them a route back in case they are chased by another cat or by a human intent to hurt them.

It's possible to install a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as easy as putting one in a wood door. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in a variety of thicknesses. This can impact the way holes are cut, and what you fix into.

If you're installing the flap inside the glass of a door it is recommended that you consult a glazier who specialises in this type of work to avoid any costly errors. If you're fitting the flap to an old wooden door, begin by introduction of your cat to it before you fit it so that they can become familiar with its size and shape and explore it from every angle.

Measure Your Cat's Belly

In order to install the right cat flap that's a good fit for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat. 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.

Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers over their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back or face, or around the legs. The padding gives your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the acrobatics cats are famous for.

You can also make use of your pet's weight to determine the size of an opening you need. If your cat weighs up to 5kg, for instance, the suggested cat flap size is 14 x 12cm.

Take a measurement of your door or window

Like the name suggests the cat flap is made to be attached to an opening and provide an opportunity for your pet to leave or enter as it pleases. These flaps are constructed of plastic or aluminum and are placed in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that opens by gently pushing on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps, which provide additional security to ensure that your cat can't simply traverse through the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also commonly used in windows. They can be easily installed, but they need to be set at an elevated level since cats and dogs find it difficult to get them. If the window is not high enough to use a cat's flap, then you can use ramps, steps, or stairs that are specially designed to aid the animal in getting to it.

A cat flap can be incorporated into a brick wall but it is not recommended unless you are experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the structure of the wall. It is important to make sure there aren't any cables and pipes in the wall prior to you start. Always consult a professional if you need to create a hole for pipes or cables. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask will help you avoid inhaling the sawdust that is created when cutting into your walls.

Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.

There are numerous cat flaps that are available on the market, and come with various features. Some flaps are equipped with security features like magnetic locks or microchips that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also prevent your pet from allowing friends or animals to enter the home. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to block the elements of moisture and draughts.

There are also different sizes available depending on the breed and size of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular, while others are circular or square. Selecting the best cat flap is determined by the space you have available as well as the type of door or window you intend to install it on.

Lastly think about the mechanism to open your cat flap is likely to have. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. However, it won't stop other pets or cats from entering your home and you could be letting draughts in too.

It's time to put in your cat flap. Make a mark on the belly of the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is sitting exactly on the door and not too low. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, use a saw to cut out the outline in the door. Once you're happy with the results sand down the edges and then drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.

Make sure you have the tools ready

It's essential to have the right tools when doing any DIY project. The most essential more info things you'll need are the cat flap itself as well as a tape measure, an excellent pencil as well as a read more spirit level, drill, file, and an Jigsaw (depending on your window or door type).

Check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal to be broken. In this scenario it's likely that you'll have to replace the glass with a brand new piece of toughened glass.

For wooden or uPVC doors you'll need to cut out the shape of your cat flap with the Jigsaw. Follow the directions given by check here the read more manufacturer. If possible, you can use an outline to help identify the size of the hole you have to cut.

After you've cut the required hole, you'll need to sand down the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will help prevent future rust and water damage. You should also cover the holes in your window or door and the side of the flap to prevent wind and rain. After the sealant has dried then you're now ready to put in your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to come and go as it pleases, fitting flaps can be helpful. This is a simple process that most people can accomplish on their own, but you will likely require the help of an expert for installing the flap on a glass door or other kind of uPVC door.

Start by looking at the instructions that come with your cat flap to locate the drawing template. This will give you an idea of the location where the holes will be drilled to install the flap on the door. Mark the areas you'll need to drill in with pencil.

After you have marked the read more area on your door, you can use the jigsaw and cut out the design for the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task however you'll need be comfortable with the Jigsaw. Numerous companies will perform this task for you at a reasonable price If you're not sure how to take on the task yourself.

Then, you can screw the inside part to the hole in your door. It is possible to seal it prior to making this move to ensure it remains weather-proof and water resistant. You can then place the outer section of the cat flap on the top of the fixing bolts, and tighten the bolts all together. You should test the flap on your cat to ensure that it is working correctly and allows the cat to go in and out easily.