Fitting a Cat Flap
Fitting a Cat Flap
Blog Article
Installing a cat flap in to your home can be a major step for any pet owner. There are a variety of options for you, no matter if your cat is old and requires extra security or if you have kittens that require to be checked.
It can be difficult for those who aren't professionals to put in the cat flap, but with right instructions it's easy. The key is preparation, planning and precision.
Choose the Right Door, or Window
There are many different types of cat flaps, some with locks that can be used to stop your pet from getting out or inside, and others that have high tech features like microchip door entry system. It is important to think about how it is easy to teach your cat to use the flap before you buy and install one.
It's best to place the cat flap, depending on the style of your home, in a window that opens into a garden that is sheltered. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering or leaving your home. If possible this will also allow them a way back should they get chased by another cat or by humans who are intent to hurt them.
You can put a cat flap in a uPVC door or glass window however, it's not as straightforward as putting one in a wooden door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors are available in different thicknesses, which affect the way holes are cut as well as what you're fixing into.
If you're installing the flap on glass doors, it's recommended that you consult a glazier who specialises in this type of work to avoid costly mistakes. If you're fitting the flap on an old wooden door, begin by introduction of your cat to it before you fit it, so that they be familiar with its size and shape and explore it from every angle.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
You'll need the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap you put in is the perfect fit. This will allow you to ensure that your cat flap is placed at the right height on the window or door, and also that it's large enough for him to get in and exit easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back and face, as well as the limbs. The extra padding offers your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the acrobatics cats are known for.
Alternately, you could use your pet's weight to determine the size of the opening you'll need. If your cat weighs 5kg, for instance the suggested flap size is 14x12cm.
Measure your window or door
As the name suggests, this type of cat flap is designed to be fixed into the door, and offers a way for your pet to go in or out as it pleases. These flaps are constructed of aluminum or plastic and sit in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that opens by gently pushing on either side. The flaps are available in locking versions which provide extra security so that your cat is not able to enter the door from outside.
A window is another popular location for a cat's flap and these are easy enough to put in, but they usually need to be set up high as it is difficult for cats and dogs to access them. If the window isn't sufficient to accommodate a cat's flap, you can make use of steps, ramps or specially designed stairs to assist the animal in reaching it.
A cat flap could be installed to a brick wall, but it is not recommended unless you are familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's essential to ensure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. You should always consult an expert if you have to cut a hole in the wall for pipes and cables. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask will allow you to avoid breathing in the sawdust created when cutting into your walls.
Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.
There are many cat flaps on the market, and come with various features. Some come with security options like magnetic locks or microchips that prevent unauthorized entry and also prevent your pet from allowing guests or other animals to enter the home. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals that keep out the elements of moisture and draughts.
There's also a variety of sizes, based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are square or circular. The type of cat flap you pick will depend on the size of the check here opening and the type of window or door you're fixing it to.
Lastly, think about the opening mechanism that your cat flap will have. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It won't stop other pets and cats from entering the room, and you could be letting in draughts.
It's time to install your cat flap. Start by marking the height of the belly on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is not too low and that it is straight across the door. Create a get more info template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, you can use your saw to cut out the window with cat flap door's outline. Once you're happy with the results sand down the edges and drill through the read more pencil marks to make holes for screws.
Make sure you have the tools ready
It's essential to have the right tools for performing any DIY project. The most important things you'll require are the cat flap, a tape measure and a website good pencil, a spirit level, drill, file, and the jigsaw (depending on your windows or doors).
Contact the manufacturer prior to making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal damaged. In this scenario, you'll probably have to install a new pane of toughened glass instead.
For wooden or uPVC doors will require cutting out the design of your cat flap using a jigsaw and follow the instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. If you can, use a template to help you mark out the size of the hole you'll will need to cut.
After you've made the hole, you'll need to sand the edges of the opening. This will stop any water damage or rust from occurring in the future. Finally, you should 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. Once the sealant is dry then you can put up your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
Installing a flap allows your cat to move around whenever it wants. This is a straightforward process that most people can do by themselves, though you will likely require the help of an expert for installing the flap on the form of a glass door or another kind of uPVC door.
Check out the directions that came with your cat flap. There is an illustration of the template. This will give you an idea of where the holes for the flap need to be made in the door. Mark the areas where you have to drill using the pencil.
Once you have marked out the area in your door then use a jigsaw cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple job, but you'll require a good understanding of the jigsaw. Many companies will complete this for you at a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to tackle it yourself.
Then, you can screw the inside part to the hole of your door. You may have to seal it prior to doing this to ensure it remains weather-proof and water resistant. The outer section of your cat flap can be placed on the bolts' tops and then tacked together. It is recommended that you test the flap using your cat to ensure that it functions properly and that they are able to get in and out of it.