Fitting A Cat Flap

Getting a cat flap fitted inside your home can be a big step for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and needs extra security or you have a new kitten that require a thorough screening, there are a lot of options there for you.

Installing a cat flap can be daunting for non-professionals but with the right instructions, it's easy to do. The most important thing is planning, preparation and accuracy.

Select the Right Door or Window

There are many different types of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to keep your pet from going out or in and others with high tech features like microchip door entry systems. It is important to consider how it is easy to teach your cat how much to install a cat flap to use the flap, before you purchase and install one.

Depending on the style of your home, it's usually best to situate the cat flap in an opening or window that opens onto an area that is protected from the garden so that your cat can feel safe when going into and out of the house. If possible, this will also give them a route back in should they get pursued by a different cat or by humans intent to harm them.

You can install the cat flap on a uPVC door or glass window however, it's not as simple as fitting one into a wooden door. It's because upvc door panels with cat flap or composite doors come in various thicknesses. This could affect the method of cutting holes, and the type of door you can fix into.

To avoid costly errors to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended that you consult a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you are fitting a cat flap (simply click the up coming internet page) the flap to a wooden door you must introduce your cat to it at first to ensure that it becomes familiar with its dimensions and shape.

Measure Your Cat's Belly

In order to put in the right cat flap that's the right size for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat's height. This will help you ensure that the flap is at the correct height on your window or door and that it's wide enough for them to enter and out easily.

To do this, place your pet on their back and run your fingers gently across their belly. Look for a fat pad that is squishy around the lower back, face or limbs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline circus skills.

Alternately, you could use your pet's weight to gauge how big an opening you need. If your cat weighs 5kg, for instance, the suggested cat flap opening size is 14x12cm.

Make sure you measure your door or window

This kind of cat flap, as the name suggests, is made to be fitted into a door. It allows your pet to move in and out at their convenience. They are usually made from plastic or aluminium and simply sit in the centre of the door with an open door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. They are available with locking options which provide extra security so that your cat is not able to enter the door from outside.

A window is a common location for a cat's flap, and they are simple enough to fit, although they often need to be set up high as it is difficult for cats and dogs to access them. If the window is too high to be used as a cat flap, steps, ramps or purpose built stairs can be used to help the animal access it.

A cat flap can also be fitted to a brick wall, but it is not recommended unless skilled in masonry work as it could weaken the wall's structure. It is important to make sure there are no cables and pipes in the wall prior to you begin. It is recommended to consult a professional if you need to create a hole for pipes and cables. It's also advisable to wear protective goggles and a dust mask to avoid breathing in any sawdust that is created by cutting through the walls of your house.

Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.

There are many cat flaps available on the market, and they have different features. Some cat flaps have security features like magnetic locks or microchip recognition which prevent unauthorised entry. They also prevent your pet from letting guests or another animal into the house. Some have weatherproof seals and insulation to keep out draughts and moisture.

There are also different sizes to choose from based on the breed and size of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular while others are square or circular. Selecting the best cat flap will be dictated by the space available as well as the type of window or door you want to attach it to.

Also think about the mechanism to open your cat flap is likely to have. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It won't stop other pets and cats from entering, and you could also be letting in drafts.

After you've chosen the right cat flap and measured your door or window and window, it's now time to put it in place it. Start by marking the belly's height on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is straight on the door and not too low. Create a template for the shape of the cat flap fitters flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, using the saw, cut out the outline of the door. When you are satisfied with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil markings to create holes for screws.

Prepare the Tools

It is essential to have the right tools for doing any DIY project. You'll need a cat flap, a pencil and tape measure as well as a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the type of window or door.

Consult the manufacturer before making any changes to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to become broken. In this scenario it's likely you will need to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.

For wooden or uPVC doors, you'll need to cut out the shape of your cat flap using the jigsaw and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Use a template to determine the size of hole you'll require.

After you've cut the hole, you'll have to sand off the edges of the opening. This will stop any rust or water damage from happening in the near future. You should also cover the holes in your window or door and the back of the flap to keep out rain and wind. When the sealant has dried and dry, you can install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

Installing a flap allows your cat to come and go whenever it wishes. The majority of people can install the flap themselves. However when you plan to put it in the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you may require a professional.

Start by looking at the instructions that come with your cat flap to locate the drawing template. This will give you an idea of where holes for the flap need to be drilled in the door. Then, mark the places in which you will must drill using the pencil.

Once you have marked out the area in your door and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the design of the cat flap. It is a relatively simple job, but you'll require a good understanding of a Jigsaw. Many companies will do this work for you at a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to tackle it yourself.

Then, screw the inner part to the hole of your door. You may have to apply sealant prior to making this move to ensure it remains weather-proof and water resistant. The outside of your cat flap could be placed on the bolts' tops and then securing them. You should test the flap on your cat flap installation to make sure that it's working properly and that it allows them to enter and exit easily.