Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in your home is a fantastic option for any pet owner. There are many options available to you, regardless of whether your cat is older and needs extra security, or you have kittens that require to be checked.

Installing a cat flap can be intimidating for people who aren't professionals, but with the right instructions, it's not hard to accomplish. The key is preparation, planning and precision.

Select the Right Door or Window

There's a wide selection of cat flaps that are available, some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from going out or coming in) and others with advanced features like microchip door entry systems. However, it's important to think about the ease of your cat to teach to use the flap before you buy and install one.

Depending on the design of your house, it's generally best to put the cat flap inside the form of a door or window that opens onto a sheltered area of the garden so your cat can feel safe when leaving and entering the home. If possible this will also allow them a route back in should they be chased by another cat or by a human intent on harming them.

You can put the cat flap on the form of a uPVC door or glass window, but it's not as easy as putting one in a wooden door. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in different thicknesses. This could affect the how holes are cut and what you fix to.

If you're installing the flap on glass doors it is recommended that you find a glazier who is experienced in such work to avoid costly errors. If you're installing the flap to the door made of wood it is recommended that you introduce your cat first to ensure that it becomes familiar with its dimensions and shape.

Take a look at your cat's belly measurement

You'll need your cat's measurements to ensure that the cat flap you choose to install is the perfect fit. This will allow you to ensure that your cat flap is installed at the correct height on the door or window and that it's big enough to allow him to enter and leave easily.

To do this, put your pet on their back and gently rub your fingers across their belly. Check for any squishy fat pads that may be visible around their lower back, face and the limbs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline acrobatics.

Alternatively, you can also consider your pet's weight as a way to determine the size of an opening you need. If your cat weighs at or above 5kg in weight, for example an opening of 14 x 12cm flap for your cat is advised.

Measure Your Door or Window

The name implies the cat flap is designed to be affixed to an opening and provide the pet with a way to leave or enter at any time it wishes. They are usually made of aluminum or plastic and sit in the centre of the door with a two-way swinging door that opens by pressing lightly on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps that provide additional security to ensure that your cat won't be able to simply traverse through the door from outside.

A window is a common location for a cat flap and these are easy enough window cat flap to install, though they are usually set up high as it is difficult for cats and dogs to access them. If the window is too high for a cat flap, ramps, steps, or specially built stairs can be used to help the animal access it.

A cat flap could also be fitted 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 essential to ensure that there are no cables and pipes in the wall prior to you start. If they are, an opening must be created for them and this is something you should always seek professional advice on. Wearing protective glasses or a dust mask can ensure that you don't breathe in the dust that is generated when cutting through your walls.

Choose the right cat flap

There are many different cat flaps on the market and each one comes with different features. Some flaps are equipped with security features, such as magnetic locks or microchips which prevent unauthorised entry. They also stop your pet from allowing friends or check here animals to enter the home. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to keep out the elements and keep out drafts.

There's also a variety of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular, while others are square or circular. The best type of cat flap will be dictated by the space you have available and the kind of door or window you want to attach it to.

Also, think about the mechanism for opening your cat flap will have. A simple aluminum or plastic swing-out door is a good alternative and is usually the least expensive. However, it will not stop other pets or cats from entering and you may let draughts through as well.

Once you have selected the appropriate cat flap and measured the window or door and window, it's now time to put it in place it. Begin by marking the belly height on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit-level to make sure the line isn't too low and is in line with the door. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, use a saw to cut out the door's outline. When you're satisfied with the result, sand the edges and then drill through the pencil lines to make holes for the screws.

Make the Tools

It's essential to have the right tools for performing any DIY project. You'll require the cat flap, an eraser and tape measure along with a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the kind of window or door.

Consult the manufacturer before making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal to become damaged. In this scenario you'll likely require an additional pane of toughened glass instead.

For wooden or uPVC doors, you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap with the Jigsaw. Follow the directions that are provided by the manufacturer. Use a template to mark out the size hole you need.

After you have cut the hole, you'll have to sand the edges of the opening. This should prevent any rust or water damage from happening in the future. You should also seal the holes in your window or door and the side of the flap to block rain and wind. After the sealant has dried, you can install your cat flap!

Install the Flap

The installation of a flap will allow your cat to move around whenever it wants. The majority of people check here can install the flap by themselves. However should you wish to install it in the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you might need a professional.

Begin by studying the instructions included with your cat flap to locate get more info the drawing template. This will provide you with an idea of where holes for the flap will need to be made in the door. Then, mark the areas where you need to drill with the pencil.

After you've marked the area in your door, use a jigsaw to cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a relatively easy task, but read more you will require a good understanding of a Jigsaw. If you're worried about doing this yourself, there are many companies that can do this for you at a low cost.

Then, attach the outer part of the door to the hole in your door. It might be necessary to seal the flap before you do this to ensure it is waterproof and weatherproof. You can then put the outer portion of the flap on top of the fixing bolts and tighten the bolts all together. It is recommended to test the flap using your cat to make sure that it functions properly and that they can enter and leave easily through it.