Fitting a Cat Flap
Fitting a Cat Flap
Blog Article
Installing a cat flap your home is an excellent step for any pet owner. There are a variety of options for you, no matter if your cat is older and needs extra security or you have kittens who need to be examined.
It can be a bit daunting for non-professionals to install an animal 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 that are available including some with locks (which can be used to stop 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 it is easy to train your cat to use the flap before you buy and install one.
It is recommended to put the cat flap, based on the style of your house, in the form of a window that opens to a sheltered garden area. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering or leaving your home. If possible it will also provide them a way back case they are chased by a cat or by a human intent to hurt them.
It is possible to install an egress flap inside the form of a uPVC door or glass window however it's not as straightforward as fitting one into wooden doors. This is because uPVC and composite doors come in various thicknesses, which can affect how holes are cut and the material you're fixing it to.
If you're installing the flap in glass doors it is recommended to consult a glazier who specialises in this kind of work to avoid costly mistakes. If you're fitting the flap in an old wooden door, begin by introduction of your cat to it before you fit it, so that they get used to its size and shape and explore it from all angles.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
In order to put in the right cat flap that's a good fit for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat's size. This will help you make sure that the flap is installed at the correct height on the door or window and that it's big enough for him to enter and leave easily.
To do this, place your pet on their back and run your fingers gently across their belly. Check for any fat pads that are squishy that might be visible around their lower back, face and legs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline acrobatics.
You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you need. If your cat is up to 5Kg in weight, for example, a 14 x 12cm cat flap opening is advised.
Take a measurement of your door or window
Like the name suggests, this type of cat flap is made to be attached to the door, and offers a way for your pet to leave or enter whenever it wants. These flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and are located in the middle of the door. They have a two-way swinging opening that is opened by lightly pushing on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps that offer additional security to ensure that your cat can't simply walk through from the outside.
Cat flaps are also commonly used on windows. They can be easily installed, but they need to be installed at a height where cats and dogs find it difficult to access them. If the window is too high for a cat flap, ramps, steps, or specially built stairs can be utilized to aid the animal in accessing it.
A cat flap could be installed into a brick wall, however it is not recommended unless experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the structure of the wall. It's important to check that there aren't any cables or pipes inside the wall before you begin. If they here are, an opening must be made for them. This is something that you should always seek professional advice on. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask will ensure that you don't breathe in the sawdust that is created when cutting into your walls.
Choose the right cat flap
There are many cat flaps available on the market, and come with various features. Some are equipped with security features such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by unauthorized persons and stop your pet allowing friends or other animals into the home. Some have insulation as well as 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. Cat flaps can be read more found in rectangular shapes, while others are circular or square. Choosing the right type of cat flap will be determined by the space you have available and the website kind of window or door you want to attach it to.
Last but not least, think about the opening mechanism your cat flap will use. The cheapest 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.
Once you have selected the appropriate cat flap and measured your windows or doors, it's time to fit it. Make a mark on the belly of the door using a ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is sitting straight against the door and not too low. Utilize your spirit level to draw a template for the flap for cats. Then, using your saw, cut out the outline of the door. When you are satisfied with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil markings to make holes for screws.
Prepare the Tools
It is essential to have the right tools when undertaking any DIY project. You'll require check here the cat flap as well as tape measure and pencil along with a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the kind of door or window.
Consult the manufacturer before making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to be damaged. In this instance, it's likely that you'll have to replace the glass website with a fresh piece of toughened glass.
For wooden or uPVC doors you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap with the Jigsaw. Follow the directions given 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 should prevent any rust or water damage from happening in the future. Also, you should apply any sealant that is needed to the back of the cat flap and to the holes in the door or window to keep out rain and wind. Once the sealant has dried, you can install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to come and go at will, installing flaps can be helpful. Most people can install the flap by themselves. However should you wish to install it on glass or uPVC type door, you might need a professional.
Check out the directions that came with the cat flap. You will find a template drawing. This will give you an idea of where holes for the flap will need to be drilled into the door. Then, mark the places in which you will must drill using the pencil.
After you've marked the door's opening, use a jigsaw to cut out the shape of the cat flap. It's a relatively easy task however you'll need be comfortable with the jigsaw. Many companies will complete this work for you at a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to do it yourself.
Then, attach the outer part to the hole of your door. It might be necessary to seal the flap before you do this in order to keep it waterproof and weatherproof. You can then put the outer portion of the cat flap on top of the fixing bolts and tighten them all. It is recommended that you test the cat flap with your cat to ensure that it is working properly and that they can enter and leave easily through it.