Fitting a Cat Flap

Fitting a Cat Flap

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Getting a cat flap fitted inside your home can be a big step for any pet owner. If your cat is old 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 non-professionals to install the cat flap, but with the proper guidelines, it's easy. The most important thing is planning, preparation and accuracy.

Choose the Right Door or Windows

There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, including some with locks that can be used to stop your pet from going out or in, while others have modern features such as microchips or a door entry systems. But, it's important to think about how easy it is for your cat to train to use the flap prior to making a purchase and install one.

Depending on the style of your home, it's generally best to put the cat flap near the form of a door or window that opens onto a sheltered area of the garden so that your cat can feel safe when entering and leaving the home. This will also allow them to go back inside in the event of being chased by another animal or human beings who wish to harm them.

You can install the cat flap on the case of a uPVC door or a glass window however, it's not as simple as putting one in a wooden door. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in a variety of thicknesses. This can impact the way holes are cut, and the type of door you can fix into.

To avoid costly errors It is recommended to consult an expert glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If you're fitting the flap on the door made of wood, start by introduction of your cat to it prior to fitting it, so that they get used to its shape and size, and explore it from every angle.

Find out the size of your cat's belly

You'll need the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap you put in is a perfect fit. This will ensure that the flap is at the right height for your door or window and that it's wide enough for them to enter and exit easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back, face or limbs. The extra padding offers your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the acrobatics cats are famous for.

You can also use your pet's weight to determine the size of an opening you need. If your cat is at or over 5kg, for example, a 14 x 12cm cat flap opening is advised.

Take a measurement of your door or window

Like the name suggests the cat flap is made to be attached to the door, and offers the pet with a way 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 can be opened by gently pressing on either side. They are available with locking options which provide extra security so that your cat is not able to walk through the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also often used on windows. They can be easily installed, but they need to be set at an elevated level since cats and dogs have a difficult time to reach them. If the window isn't high enough to use here the flap for cats, you can make use of ramps, steps or stairs that are specially designed to help the animal reach it.

It is possible to insert a cat flap into a brickwall, but it is not recommended for people who are not experienced in brickwork. This could cause the wall to weaken. It is important to make sure there aren't any cables or pipes within the wall before you begin. You should always consult a professional if you need to create a hole for pipes or cables. Wearing protective glasses or a dust mask can help you avoid inhaling the dust that is generated when you cut into your click here walls.

Select the Right Cat Flap

There are a variety of cat flaps on the market and they all have various features. Some come with security options like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by unauthorized persons and restrict your pet from letting friends or other animals into the house. Some also have insulation and weatherproof website seals to keep out the elements of moisture and draughts.

There are various sizes more info available depending on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular, while others are circular or square. Selecting the best cat flap will be determined by the space available as well as the type of door or window you intend to install it on.

The last thing to do is take into consideration the kind of opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. The cheapest option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It will not stop other animals and upvc door panel replacement cat flap cats from entering the room, and you could be letting in drafts.

After you've chosen the right cat flap and measured the windows or doors and window, it's now time to put it in place it. Begin by marking the height of the belly on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit-level to make sure that the line is not too low and that it is straight across the door. 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 in the door. Once you're happy with the results sand down the edges and then drill through the pencil marks to make holes for screws.

Prepare the Tools

It is essential to have the right tools for doing any DIY project. The most essential things you'll need are the cat flap itself as well as a tape measure, an excellent pencil as well as a spirit level, drill, file, and the Jigsaw (depending on the window or door type).

If you're installing in a composite door, you should consult with the manufacturer before making any changes as this may invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this scenario, it's likely that you'll need to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass.

For wooden or uPVC doors you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap using the Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines provided by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to determine the size of hole you require.

After you've cut the hole, you'll have to sand the edges of the opening. This will prevent any future water damage or rust. It is also recommended to seal the holes in your window or door and the back of the cat flap to keep out wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry then you're now ready to put in your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

Installing a flap allows your cat to come and go whenever it wishes. Most people can install the flap by themselves. However should you wish to put it in a glass or uPVC type door, you may need a professional.

Look at the instructions included with the cat flap. There is an illustration of the template. This will give you an idea of where the holes will be drilled for the flap to be placed in the door. Then, mark the areas that you'll have to drill using pencil.

After you have mapped out the door's area then use a jigsaw cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple job however you'll need be comfortable with the jigsaw. Many companies will do this for you at a reasonable cost If you're not sure how to tackle it yourself.

Next, you will need to screw the inner part of the flap onto the door's hole. It may be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this in order to keep it waterproof and weatherproof. Then, you can put the outer portion of the flap on the top of the fixing bolts and tighten the bolts all together. You should test the flap on your cat to confirm that it's working properly and allows them to enter and exit easily.