Getting a cat flap fitted inside your home can be a major step for any pet owner. There are a variety of options for you, no matter if your cat is older and requires additional security, or you have kittens that need to be examined.
Installing a cat flap can be daunting for non-professionals but with the right instructions, it's not difficult to complete. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and accuracy.
Choose the Right Door or Windows
There's a wide selection of cat flaps that are available, some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet going out or coming in) and others with high-tech features such as microchip door entry systems. But, it's important to think about how easy your cat is to train 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 of protection in the garden so your cat can feel safe when going into and out of the house. If possible it will also provide them a route back in should they get chased by a cat or by humans intent to hurt them.
It is possible to install an egress flap inside the form of a uPVC door or glass window, but it's not as simple as putting one in the door made of wood. This is because uPVC and composite doors come in different thicknesses, which affect how holes are cut and what you're fixing to.
To avoid costly errors to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended that you consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you're fitting the flap in a wooden door, start by the cat with it prior to fitting it, so that they be familiar with its size and shape and explore it from every angle.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
You'll need your cat's measurements to make sure that the cat flap you choose to install is a good fit. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is at the right height for your door or window, and that it's large enough for them to enter and exit with ease.
To do this, put your pet on their back and gently rub your fingers across their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back and face, as well as the legs. The padding gives your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics felines are known for.
Alternatively, you can also make use of your pet's weight to determine the size of an opening you require. If your cat weighs at or over 5kg, for example that's a 14x12cm cat flap opening is recommended.
Take a measurement of your door or window
As the name suggests this kind of cat flap is made to be attached to a door and provides the pet with a way to enter or leave at any time it wishes. These flaps are constructed of plastic or aluminum and sit in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that opens by lightly pushing on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps, which provide extra security, so your cat isn't able to enter the door from the outside.
A window is another popular location for a cat's flap, and they are simple enough to put in, but they are usually located high enough as it's difficult for dogs and cats to access them. If the window isn't sufficient in height to be used as the flap for cats, you can make use of steps, ramps or specially designed stairs to help the animal reach it.
It is possible to insert the cat flap onto a brickwall, but it is not recommended for those who aren't familiar with brickwork. This could cause the wall to weaken. It's important to check that there aren't any cables or pipes in the wall prior to you begin. It is recommended to consult an expert if you have to cut a hole in the wall for cables and pipes. It's also advisable to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust-proof mask to prevent inhaling any sawdust generated by cutting through the walls of your house.
Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.
There are numerous cat flaps available and they all have various features. Some cat flaps have security features such as microchip recognition or magnetic locks that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. click here They also prevent your pet from letting friends or animals to enter the house. Some have weatherproof click here seals and insulation to block out draughts and moisture.
There are also different sizes available depending on the breed and size of your more info pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular, while others are square or circular. The type of cat flap you select will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the type of window or door you're fixing it to.
Last but not least, consider the type of opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. A simple aluminium or plastic swing-out door is an alternative and is usually the least expensive. It won't stop other animals and cats from entering the room, and you could be letting in drafts.
It's time to put in your cat flap. Start by marking the belly height on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit-level to make sure that the line is not too low and is in line with the door. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Next, use your saw to cut out the outline of the door. Once you are happy with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil lines to make holes more info for screws.
Prepare the Tools
It is essential to have the right tools when performing any DIY project. The most essential things you'll need are the cat flap, a tape measure and an excellent pencil, a spirit level, drill, file and the jigsaw (depending on your window or door type).
If you're installing a composite door, consult with the manufacturer prior to making any website changes as this may cause the warranty to be invalidated or break the weathertight seal. In this scenario you'll likely need to fit an additional pane of toughened glass instead.
For wooden or uPVC doors you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap using a Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines given by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to determine the size of hole you require.
After you've made the hole, you'll need to sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will prevent future rust and water damage. It is also recommended to seal the holes in your door or window and the side of the flap to block rain and wind. After the sealant has dried, you're ready to install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
Installing a flap allows your cat to come and go whenever it pleases. The majority of people can install the flap themselves. However should you wish to install it in glass or uPVC type door, you may require a professional.
Check out the directions included with the cat flap. There is a drawing of the template. This will give you an idea of where the holes for the flap have to be drilled into the door. Mark the areas you'll have to drill using the pencil.
After you've marked the door's opening and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a relatively easy task, but you'll have to be comfortable using the jigsaw. Many companies will do this for you at a reasonable cost in case you're hesitant to take on the task yourself.
Then, you can screw the inside part to the hole in your door. You may have to seal it prior to doing this to ensure that it is weather and water resistant. Then, you can put the outer portion of the cat flap on top of the fixing bolts, and tighten them all. You should test the cat flap on your cat to ensure that it functions properly and that it allows them to exit and enter easily.