Fitting a Cat Flap
Installing a cat flap your home is an excellent step for any pet owner. There are a variety of options to you, regardless of whether your cat is old and requires extra security or you have kittens that require to be vetted. It can be difficult for people who aren't experts in installing the cat flap, but with proper guidelines, it's easy. Planning, preparation and precision are the most important factors. Choose the Right Door or Windows There are a variety of cat flaps that are available that come with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet going out or coming in) and others with high-tech features such as microchips for door entry systems. It is important to consider how it is easy to train your cat to use the flap, before you purchase and install one. Based on the style of your house It is recommended to situate the cat flap inside a window or door that opens onto an area that is protected from the garden so your cat can feel safe when going into and out of the house. If you can it will also provide them a route back in case they are pursued by a different cat or by humans intent to hurt them. It is possible to install a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it's not as simple as installing one into a wood door. This is because uPVC and composite doors are available in a variety of thicknesses, and this can impact the way holes are cut as well as the material you're fixing it into. To avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended that you consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If you are fitting the flap into an existing wooden door, you should introduce your cat to it first to make sure it is familiar with its dimensions and shape. Take a look at your cat's belly measurement You'll need the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you put in is the perfect fit. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is the correct height on your door or window and that it's large enough to allow them to get in and exit easily. Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Look for any squishy fat pads that could be visible on their lower back, face or legs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline acrobatics. Alternatively, you can also consider your pet's weight as a way to gauge how big an opening you'll need. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg, for example the suggested cat flap size is 14x12cm. Take a measurement of your door or window As the name suggests the cat flap is made to be attached to an opening and provide an opportunity for your pet to go in or out at any time it wishes. They are usually made of plastic or aluminium and simply rest in the middle of the door. They have an open door that opens by pushing lightly on either side. These flaps can be locked that provide additional security so that your cat is not able to enter the door from outside. A window is another popular location for a cat flap, and they are simple enough to install, though they usually need to be located high enough as it's difficult for dogs and cats to access them. If the window is not high enough to use a cat's flap, you can make use of ramps, steps or stairs that are specially designed to assist the animal in reaching it. Cat flaps can be incorporated 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's important to check that there are no cables and pipes within the wall before you begin. If there are, there must be a hole made for them. This is something you should always seek professional advice on. It's also advisable to wear protective goggles and a dust-proof mask to avoid inhaling any sawdust generated by cutting into your home's walls. Choose the right cat flap There are numerous cat flaps that are available on the market, and come with various features. Some cat flaps have security features, such as magnetic locks or microchips which prevent unauthorised entry. They also stop your pet from letting friends or other animals into the house. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to block out draughts and moisture. There's also a variety of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular, while others are square or circular. The kind of cat flap you choose will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the kind of door or window you're installing it to. Finally think about the opening mechanism that 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 animals and cats from entering however, and you could be letting in draughts. It's time to put in your cat flap. Begin by marking the height of the belly on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is straight on the door and not too low. Use your spirit level to draw a template for the flap for cats. Then, using the Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. When you are satisfied with the result finish sanding the edges and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws. Make the Tools As with any DIY jobs, it's always best to have the right tools for the job. The most important things you'll require are the cat flap along with a tape measure, an excellent pencil and a spirit level drill, file, and the Jigsaw (depending on your window or door type). If cat flap fitting near me installing a composite door, consult with the manufacturer prior to making any changes, as this may cause the warranty to be invalidated or break the weathertight seal. In this scenario, you'll probably have to install an entirely new pane of toughened glass instead. You'll need to use the jigsaw to cut your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacture. 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 help prevent future rust and water damage. Finally, you should apply any sealant you require to the rear of the cat flap as well as to the holes in the door or window to block rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry, you can install your new cat-flap! Install the Flap Fitting a flap will allow your cat to move around whenever it pleases. It's a simple procedure that most people can accomplish on their own, but you may need to hire a professional if you are installing the flap in an unglazed door or any other kind of uPVC door. Look at the instructions that came with your cat flap. You will find a drawing of the template. This will give an idea of the location where holes need to be drilled for the flap to be placed in the door. Note the areas you'll need to drill in with pencil. Once you have marked out the door's opening and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task however you'll need be comfortable with the saw. Many companies will complete this task for you at a reasonable cost If you're not sure how to do it yourself. Then, attach the outer part to the hole of your door. It might be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this to ensure it is weatherproof and watertight. The outer part of your cat flap can be placed on the bolts on top, and then tacked together. You should test the flap on your cat to make sure that it is working correctly and allows the cat to go in and out easily.