Fitting a Cat Flap
Fitting a Cat Flap
Blog Article
Installing a cat flap in your home is a fantastic step for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and requires extra security, or you have kittens who require a vet check there are plenty of options out there to choose from.
It can be intimidating for people who aren't experts in installing a cat flap, but with proper instructions, it's simple. Preparation, planning and precision are the most important factors.
Select the Right Door, or Windows
There's a wide selection of cat flaps to choose from, some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from leaving or entering) and others that have high-tech features such as microchip door entry systems. It is important to consider how easy it will be to train your cat to use the flap, before you buy and install one.
It is recommended to put the cat flap, depending on the style of your house, in an opening that leads into a garden that is sheltered. This will help your cat feel secure when entering or leaving your home. If you can this will also allow them a route back in should they get chased by another cat or by a human intent to harm them.
It's possible to put a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it's not the same as fitting one in a wood door. This is because uPVC and composite doors are available in various thicknesses, which affect how holes are cut and what you're fixing into.
To avoid costly mistakes It is recommended to consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you're installing the flap to an existing wooden door you must introduce your cat first so that it can become familiar with its dimensions and shape.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
You'll need your cat's measurements to make sure that the cat flap you choose to install is a good fit. This will enable you to ensure that the cat flap is placed at the correct height on the door or window, and that it is large enough for him to enter and exit easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers over their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back, face or legs. The padding gives your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics felines are known for.
Alternately, you could consider your pet's weight as a way to gauge how big an opening you'll need. If your cat is at or over 5kg for instance that's a 14x12cm cat flap opening is recommended.
Make sure you measure your window or door
This kind of cat flap, as its name suggests, is made to be fitted into the door. It allows your pet to move in and out at their convenience. They are typically made of plastic or aluminium and simply are placed in the middle of the door with a two-way swinging door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. These flaps are available with locking options that offer added security, which means that your cat can't enter the door from outside.
A window is another popular location for a cat flap, and they are simple enough to put in, but they often need to be located high enough as it's difficult for dogs and cats to reach them otherwise. If the window is not high enough to use the flap for cats, you can use steps, ramps or cat flap cost stairs that are specially designed to help the animal reach it.
It is possible to put the cat flap onto the brick wall, however it is not recommended for people who aren't experienced in masonry. This could cause the wall to weaken. It is essential to ensure that there are no cables and pipes in the wall prior to you start. Always consult an expert if you have to create a hole for cables and pipes. It's also advisable to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust mask to prevent inhaling any sawdust that is created by cutting into your home's walls.
Choose the right cat flap
There are a variety of cat flaps available on the market, and they have various features. Some cat flaps have security features, such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition which prevent unauthorised entry. They also keep your pet from letting click here friends or another animal into the house. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals that keep out the elements of moisture and draughts.
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 type of cat flap you choose will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the type of window or door you're fixing it to.
The last thing to do is consider the type of opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. However, it will not prevent other cats or pets from entering your home and you could be letting draughts in as well.
After you've chosen the right cat flap and measured your windows or doors, it's time to fit it. Mark the belly height of the door using a ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is sitting straight on the door and not too low. Create a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, you can use your jigsaw to cut out get more info the door's outline. Once you are satisfied with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil marks to create holes for screws.
Prepare the Tools
Like any DIY tasks, it's advisable to make sure you have the right tools for the job. The most important things you'll require are the cat flap itself, a tape measure and an excellent pencil and a spirit level drill, file and an jigsaw (depending on your door or window type).
If you're installing a composite door, you should consult with the manufacturer before making any alterations because this could cause the warranty to be invalidated or break the weathertight seal. In this scenario you'll likely have to install an additional pane of toughened glass instead.
For wooden or uPVC doors, you'll need to cut out the shape of your cat flap using the Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to determine the size of hole you'll require.
After you've made the hole, you must sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop the possibility of water damage and rust. In the end, you must apply any sealant that is needed to the back of the cat flap and to the holes in the window or door to keep out the elements of wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry it is time to install your cat flap!
Install the website Flap
If you want your cat to go and come whenever it wants, installing a flap can help. It's a simple procedure that most people can do themselves, although you will likely require the assistance of a professional if you are installing the flap on a glass door or other kind of uPVC door.
Begin by studying the instructions included with the flap to locate the template. This will give an idea of the location where holes need to be drilled to install the flap to be placed in the door. Then, mark the areas that you'll need to drill with a 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 simple task however you'll need be comfortable with the Jigsaw. Many companies will do this for you at a reasonable price if you are hesitant to take on the task read more yourself.
The next step is to attach the inside of the cat flap to the door's hole. It may be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this to keep it weatherproof and watertight. The outside of your cat flap could be placed on top of the bolts, and then securing them. It is recommended to test the flap using your cat to ensure that it is working properly and that they are able to move easily through it.