Fitting a Cat Flap
Fitting a Cat Flap
Blog Article
Installing a cat flap in your home is a great step for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and needs extra security or you have kittens that need to be vetted, there are plenty of options there for you.
It can be a bit daunting for those who aren't professionals to put in an animal flap, but with the proper instructions, it's simple. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and precision.
Select the Right Door, or Windows
There are many different types of cat flaps, some of which have 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 system. It is important to think about 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 style of your house, in the form of a window that opens to an area of the garden that is protected. This will allow your cat to feel safe when entering or leaving your home. If you can it will also provide them a way back case they are chased by a cat or by a human intent to harm them.
It's possible to put the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as easy as putting one into a wood door. This is because uPVC and composite doors are available in various thicknesses, and this can impact the way holes are cut as well as what you're fixing to.
If you're installing the flap on a glass door, it's recommended that you seek out a glazier that is skilled in such work to avoid costly errors. If you're installing the flap to the door made of wood you must introduce your cat first so that it can become familiar with its dimensions and shape.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
In order to put in a cat flap that's a good fit for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat's size. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is the right height for your door or window, and that it's large enough to allow them to enter and exit easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Feel for any fat pads that are squishy - these may be visible around their lower back, face or 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 use the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you require. If your cat weighs 5kg, for instance the suggested flap size is 14 x 12cm.
Take a measurement of your windows or doors
This type of cat flap, as its name suggests, is designed to be affixed to a door. It lets your pet be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. They are usually made of aluminum or plastic and rest in the middle of the door. They come with the possibility of a swinging door that opens by pushing lightly on either side. The flaps are available in locking versions that provide additional security so your cat cannot simply enter the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also commonly used in windows. They are able to be easily installed, but they need to be placed at an elevated level since cats and dogs find it difficult to access them. If the window is too high for a cat flap then steps, ramps or purpose constructed stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it.
It is possible to install an egress into a brickwall, but it is not recommended for those who are not experienced in brickwork. This could weaken the wall's structure. It is essential to ensure that there aren't any cables and pipes within the wall before you start. If there are, then a hole needs to be made for them. This is something you should always seek expert advice on. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask can help you avoid inhaling the dust that is generated when cutting through your walls.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are numerous cat flaps available and each one comes with various features. Some flaps are equipped with security features such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition which prevent unauthorised entry. They also stop your pet from letting friends or other animals into the house. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to keep out water and drafts.
There are various sizes to choose from based on the breed and size of your click here pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular, while others are square or circular. The type of cat flap you select will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the kind of door or window you're fitting it to.
Last but not least, click here think about the opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. However, it won't keep other animals or cats from entering and you may be letting draughts in too.
It's time to install your cat flap. Start by marking the belly's height on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is sitting straight on the door and not too low. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Next, use your jigsaw to cut out the outline of the door. When you're satisfied with the result, get more info sand the edges and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for screws.
Make the Tools
Like all DIY tasks, it's best to have the proper tools for the job. The most important things you'll require are the cat flap itself, a tape measure and a decent pencil, a spirit level, drill, file and a Jigsaw (depending on the door or window type).
Contact the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal to be damaged. In this case, you'll probably need to fit an entirely new pane of toughened glass instead.
You'll need the jigsaw to cut your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. Use a template to mark out the size hole you require.
After you've made the hole, you'll need to sand down the edges of the opening to smooth them. This should prevent any rust or water damage from happening in the near future. Also, you should apply any necessary sealant to the back of the cat flap and to the holes in the window or door website to keep out the elements of wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry it is time to install your cat flap!
Install the Flap
The installation of a flap will allow your cat to come and go whenever it wants. The majority of people can install the flap themselves. However, if you want to install it on a glass or uPVC type get more info door, you may require an expert.
Begin by studying the instructions included with the flap to locate the template drawing. This will give you an idea of the location where the holes will be drilled for the flap in the door. Then, mark the areas where you need to drill with the pencil.
After you have marked the area on your door, you can use the jigsaw and cut out the the cat flap. This is a relatively easy task, but you will need to be comfortable using a Jigsaw. If you're worried about doing this yourself, there are many companies that can complete this for you at a low cost.
Then, you can screw the inside part to the hole in your door. It is possible to apply sealant before doing this to ensure that it stays watertight and weather resistant. The outer part of your cat flap may be placed on the bolts on top, and then tightened together. You must test the cat flap on your cat to confirm that it is working correctly and allows the cat to go in and out easily.