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 numerous options to you, regardless of whether your cat is old and requires additional security or if you have kittens that need to be examined.
It can be a bit daunting for those who aren't professionals to put in an animal flap, but with the proper instructions, it's simple. Planning, preparation and precision are the key to success.
Select the Right Door or Windows
There's a wide selection of cat flaps that are available that come with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet going out or entering) and others with advanced features like microchip door entry systems. It is important to think about how easy it will be to teach your cat to use the flap, before you purchase and install one.
Depending on the style of your house, it's usually best to put the cat flap near a window or door that opens to a sheltered area of the garden so your cat will feel secure entering and leaving the home. If you can this will also allow them a route back in should they be pursued by a different cat or by humans intent to hurt them.
You can put an egress flap inside a uPVC door or glass window, but it's not as easy as fitting one into wooden doors. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors come in various thicknesses, and this can impact the way holes are cut as well as the materials you're fixing them into.
If you're installing the flap inside glass doors it is recommended to seek out a glazier that is skilled in this type of work to avoid any costly errors. If you are fitting the flap onto the door made of wood it is recommended that you introduce your cat to it at first to ensure that it becomes familiar with its size and shape.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
To install an appropriate cat flap that is the right size for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is at the right height for your window or door and that it's big enough to allow them to enter and exit with ease.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers over their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back and face, as well as the limbs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline Acrobatics.
You can also use the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you need. If your cat is at or above 5kg in weight for instance, a 14 x 12cm flap for the cat is recommended.
Take a measurement of your windows or doors
The name implies this kind of cat flap is made to be attached to a door and provides the pet with a way to leave or enter at any time it wishes. They are usually made from aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door with an open door that opens by pressing lightly on either side. The flaps can be locked which provide extra security so your cat cannot simply walk through the door from outside.
A window is another popular location for a cat's flap, and they're easy enough to put in, but they are usually placed high up as it's difficult for cats and dogs to access them. If the window is not high enough to use a cat's flap, then you can opt for ramps, steps or specially designed stairs to assist the animal in reaching it.
It is possible to install the cat flap onto the brick wall, however it is not recommended for people who aren't familiar with masonry. This could weaken the wall's structure. Before get more info you begin, it's essential to ensure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. It is recommended to consult an expert when you need to make a hole for pipes or cables. It's also advisable to wear safety goggles and a dust mask to prevent inhaling any sawdust generated by cutting into the walls of your house.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are numerous cat flaps available and all of them offer various features. Some flaps are equipped with security features like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry. They also stop your pet from letting guests or other animals into the home. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to keep out water website and drafts.
There are click here different sizes available depending on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, while others are circular or square. The best type of cat flap will be determined by the space available as well as the type of door or window you intend to install it on.
Finally think about the mechanism for opening your cat flap will come with. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. But, it will not stop other pets or cats from gaining access and you could let draughts through as well.
Once you've selected the appropriate cat flap and measured your 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 ensure that the line is sitting straight against the door and not too low. Create a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, using your saw, cut out the outline of the door. When you're satisfied with the results sand down the edges and then drill through the pencil marks to make holes for the screws.
Prepare the Tools
Like any DIY tasks, it's recommended to have the appropriate tools for the job. The most important things you'll require are the cat flap itself, a tape measure and a good pencil as well as a spirit level, a file, drill and the jigsaw (depending on your windows or doors).
If you're installing in a composite door, you should consult with the manufacturer prior to making any alterations 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 shape of your cat flap with the Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines given by the manufacturer. If you can, use an example to identify the size of hole get more info you'll will need to cut.
After you've made the hole, you'll need to smooth here the edges of the opening to smooth them. This should prevent any water damage or rust from occurring in the future. You should also seal the holes in your door or window and the side of the flap to block rain and wind. Once the sealant has dried then you can put up your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
Installing a flap allows your cat to move around whenever it wants. This is a straightforward process that most people can complete by themselves, though you'll likely require the assistance of an expert if you're installing the flap on an unglazed door or any other type of uPVC door.
Look at the instructions included with your cat flap. You will find a template drawing. This will give you an idea of where the holes will be made for the flap in the door. Mark the areas you will need to drill in using pencil.
Once you have marked out the door's area, use a jigsaw to cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple job however you'll need be comfortable using the jigsaw. If you are worried about doing this yourself, there are many companies that can do this for you at a low cost.
The next step is to screw the inner part of the flap onto the hole in your door. It is possible to seal it prior to doing this to ensure that it stays watertight and weather resistant. The outer section of your cat flap may be placed on the bolts' tops and then securing them. You should test the flap on your cat to confirm that it is working correctly and allows them to enter and exit easily.