Fitting a Cat Flap

Fitting a Cat Flap

Blog Article

Getting a cat flap fitted into your home could be a big step for any pet owner. There are many options available for you, whether your cat is older and requires additional security or if you have kittens that need to be vetted.

Installing a cat flap could be daunting for non-professionals but with the right instructions, it's easy to accomplish. Preparation, planning and precision are the most important factors.

Select the Right Door, or Windows

There are many different types of cat flaps, including some with locks that can be used to prevent your pet from getting out or in, while others have advanced features like microchips for door entry system. It is important to consider how easy it will be 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 home, in a window that opens into an area of the garden that is protected. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering and leaving your home. If possible this will also allow them a way back should they be pursued by a different cat or by humans who are intent to harm them.

You can install the cat flap on the form of a uPVC door or glass window however, it's not as simple as fitting one into the door made of wood. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors come in different thicknesses, and this can impact how holes are cut and the material you're fixing it into.

If you're installing the flap on a glass door it is recommended to find a glazier who is experienced in this kind of work to avoid any costly errors. If you're installing the flap on the door made of wood, start by introduction of your cat to it before you fit it so that they can get used to its shape and size and explore it from every angle.

Take a look at your cat's belly measurement

In order to install an appropriate cat flap that is suitable for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat's height. This will ensure that the flap is at the right height for your door or window, and that it's wide enough to allow them to enter and out easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers over their belly. Check for any squishy fat pads which may be visible around their lower back, face, and the limbs. The padding gives your pet safety and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the acrobatics cats are famous for.

You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you need. If your cat weighs 5kg, for instance the suggested flap opening size is 14 x 12cm.

Measure your windows or doors

The name implies, this type of cat flap is made to be attached to a door and provides an opportunity for your pet to go in or out whenever it wants. These flaps are constructed of aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door. They have a two-way swinging opening that opens by lightly pushing on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps, which provide added security so your cat isn't able to walk through from the outside.

A window is another common place to put a cat flap, and they're easy enough to fit, although they often read more need to be located high enough as it's difficult for cats and dogs to reach them otherwise. If the window is not high enough to use a cat's flap, you can use steps, ramps or stairs that are specially designed to assist the animal in reaching it.

It is possible to insert a cat flap into a brickwall, but it is not recommended for those who aren't experienced in masonry. This could cause the wall to weaken. It is essential to ensure that there aren't any cables and pipes inside the wall before you begin. You should always consult an expert when you need to create a hole for pipes and cables. It's also advisable to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust protection mask to avoid breathing in any sawdust that is created by cutting holes in the walls of your house.

Select the Right Cat Flap

There are a variety of cat flaps on the market, and have different features. Some flaps are equipped with security features, such as microchip recognition or magnetic locks that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also prevent your pet from letting guests or another animal into the home. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to keep out draughts and moisture.

There's also a range of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, whereas others are circular or square. The read more kind of cat flap you select will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the kind of door or window you're fixing it to.

Also think about the opening mechanism that your cat flap will have. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is a good option and is usually the least expensive. However, it won't stop other pets or cats from entering your home and you could let draughts through as well.

Once you have selected the appropriate cat flap and measured your windows or doors, it's time to fit it. Start by marking the height of the belly on the door using your ruler. Use website a spirit level to ensure that the line is sitting straight on the door and not too low. Use your spirit level to draw a sketch of the cat flap. Then, using your jigsaw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you are satisfied with the result then sand more info the edges and drill through the pencil marks to create holes for screws.

Prepare the Tools

As with all DIY jobs, it's always best to have the appropriate tools to complete the task. You'll need the cat flap along with tape measure and pencil as well as a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the type of window or door.

Check with 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 it's likely you'll need to replace the glass with a brand new piece of toughened glass.

For wooden or uPVC doors will require cutting out the design of your cat flap with the Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. Use a template to mark the size hole you'll require.

After you've made the hole, you must sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop any rust or water damage from happening in the future. In the end, you must apply any sealant you require to the rear of the cat flap, and to the holes in the window or door to block rain and wind. After the sealant has dried then you can put up your cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to move around as it pleases, fitting flaps can be helpful. Most people can put in the flap on their own. However should you wish to put it in the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you may need a professional.

Look at the instructions included with the cat flap. You will find a template drawing. This will provide you with an idea of where holes for the flap have to be drilled in the door. Then, mark the places in which you will must drill using a pencil.

After you have marked the door on your door, you can use the jigsaw and cut out the design for the cat flap. It's a relatively easy job, but you'll need to be comfortable with a jigsaw. If you are concerned about doing this yourself, there are a lot of companies that can do this for you at a very low cost.

Next, you will need to attach the inside of the flap onto the door's hole. You may have to apply sealant prior to doing this to ensure it is weather and water resistant. more info Then, you can put the outer section of the cat flap on top of the fixing bolts and tighten them all. You must test the cat flap on your cat to make sure that it is working correctly and that it allows them to exit and enter easily.