Fitting A Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap installation bristol flap inside your home can be a major step for any pet owner. There are numerous options for you, whether your cat is older and needs extra security or you have kittens that need to be vetted.

Installing a cat flap could be a daunting task for novices, but with the right instructions, it's not difficult to complete. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and precision.

Select the Right Door or Windows

There's a wide selection of cat flaps that are available, some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from going out or coming in) and others with advanced features like microchip door entry systems. It is important to consider 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 house, in a window that opens into a sheltered garden area. This will help your cat feel secure when entering or leaving your home. If you can this will also allow them a way back should they be pursued by a different cat or by a human intent to hurt them.

You can put the cat flap on the case of a uPVC door or a glass window however, it's not as easy as putting one in a wooden door. This is because uPVC or composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses. This can affect the method of cutting holes, and what you fix into.

If you're installing the flap in glass doors it is recommended to seek out a glazier that is skilled in such work to avoid costly errors. If you're fitting the flap onto the door made of wood, you should introduce your cat to it first to ensure that it becomes familiar with its size and shape.

Measure Your Cat's Belly

You'll need the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you install is the perfect fit. This will allow you to ensure that the cat flap is placed at the right height for the door or window and that it is large enough to allow him to enter and leave easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers over their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back or face, or around the limbs. The padding provides your pet safety and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics that felines are famous for.

You can also take into account the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you require. If your cat is at or above 5kg in weight, for example an opening of 14 x 12cm flap for your cat flap double glazing is advised.

Make sure you measure your door or window

This type of cat flap, as its name suggests, is made to be fitted into the door. It lets your pet be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. These flaps are constructed of aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that opens by gently pressing on either side. These flaps are available in locking versions that provide additional security which means that your cat flap installation can't walk through the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also commonly employed in windows. They are easy to be installed, however they have to be installed at an elevated level since cats and dogs find it difficult to get them. If the window is too high for a cat flap, then steps, ramps or purpose built stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it.

cat flap fitters flaps can also be fitted into a brick wall, however this is not recommended unless you are familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the structure of the wall. It's important to check that there are no cables and pipes in the wall prior to you start. You should always consult a professional if you need to cut a hole in the wall for cables and pipes. It is also recommended to wear protective goggles and a dust mask to avoid breathing in any of the sawdust created by cutting through the walls of your home.

Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.

There are many different cat flaps on the market and all of them offer various features. Some flaps are equipped with security features like magnetic locks or microchips that prevent unauthorized entry. They also prevent your pet from allowing friends or another animal into the home. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to keep out draughts and moisture.

There are various sizes available depending on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are circular or square. Choosing the right type of cat flap is determined by the space you have available and the type of window or door you are fitting it to.

The last thing to do is take into consideration the kind of opening mechanism your cat flap will use. The cheapest option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. However, it will not prevent other cats or pets from entering your home and you could be letting draughts in too.

Once you've selected the right cat flap and measured the door or window and window, it's now time to put it in place it. Begin by marking the belly's height on the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is straight against the door and not too low. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, using your jigsaw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you are happy with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil markings to make holes for screws.

Prepare the Tools

It is essential to have the right tools when undertaking any DIY project. The most essential things you'll need are the cat flap as well as a tape measure, a decent pencil as well as a spirit level, a file, drill and the jigsaw (depending on your door or window type).

Contact the manufacturer prior to making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to be damaged. In this scenario you'll have to install a new pane of toughened glass instead.

You'll require a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines given by the manufacturer. Make use of a template to mark the size hole you'll need.

After you have cut the hole, you will have to sand the edges of the opening. This will prevent any water damage or rust from happening in the near future. It is also recommended to seal the holes in your door or window and the back of the cat flap to prevent rain and wind. After the sealant has dried it is time to install your cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to go and come as it pleases, Fitting a cat flap flaps can be helpful. The majority of people can install the flap by themselves. However, if you want to install it on a glass or uPVC type door, you might need a professional.

Take a look at the instructions included with the cat flap. There is a template drawing. This will give you an idea of where the holes for the flap will need to be drilled into the door. Note the areas you'll need to drill in with a pencil.

After you've marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw to cut the shape for the cat flap. It is a relatively simple task, but you'll require a good understanding of a 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, screw the inner part of the door 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 outside of your cat flap can be placed on top of the bolts, and then tightened together. It is recommended to test the flap with your cat to ensure that it functions properly and that they are able to get in and out of it.