Fitting a Cat Flap
Fitting a Cat Flap
Blog Article
Installing a cat flap your home is a great step for any pet owner. There are numerous options for you, no matter if your cat is older and requires extra security, or you have kittens who need to be checked.
It can be difficult for those who aren't professionals to put in a cat flap, but with the right instructions it's easy. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and accuracy.
Choose the Right Door, or Window
There are a wide variety of cat flaps available including some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from leaving or coming in) and others that have high-tech features like microchip door entry systems. It is important to think about how easy it is for your cat to train to use the flap before you purchase and install one.
Depending on the design of your house It is recommended to place the cat flap near an opening or window that opens out into an area of protection in the garden so your cat is secure when leaving and entering the home. If possible this will also allow them a way back should they get chased by another cat or by humans intent on harming them.
It is possible to install a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't the same as fitting one in a wood door. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in different thicknesses. This could affect the how holes are cut and the type of door you can fix to.
If you're installing the flap inside the glass of a door it is recommended that you consult a glazier who specialises in such work to avoid any 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 can get used to its shape and size, and explore it from all angles.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
In order to install an appropriate cat flap that is a good fit for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat's height. This will help you ensure that the cat flap is at the right height on the door or window and also that it's large enough to allow him to enter and exit easily.
To do this, lay your pet on their back and run your fingers gently across their belly. Feel for any fat pads that are squishy that might be visible around their lower back, face, and legs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline circus skills.
Alternately, you could use your pet's weight to gauge how big an opening you require. If your cat weighs at or above 5kg in weight for instance that's a 14x12cm flap for your cat is advised.
Take a measurement of your door or window
This kind of cat flap, as its name suggests is designed to be affixed to a door. It allows your pet to be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. They are usually made from aluminum or plastic and rest in the middle of the door. They have a two-way swinging door that opens by pressing lightly on either side. The flaps can be locked that provide additional security so that your cat is not able to walk through the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also often used in windows. They are easy to be installed, but they have to be placed at an elevated level since cats and dogs find it difficult to reach them. If the window isn't sufficient to accommodate the flap for cats, you can opt for ramps, steps or specially designed stairs to aid the animal in getting to it.
It is possible to install a cat flap into a brickwall, but it is not recommended for those who aren't experienced in brickwork. This could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's essential to make sure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. If there are, there must be a hole made for them. This is something you should always seek professional advice on. Wearing protective goggles here or click here a dust mask can ensure that you don't breathe in the sawdust created when you cut into your walls.
Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.
There are a variety of cat flaps that are available on the market, and they all offer different features. Some have security options like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by unauthorized persons and restrict your pet from letting guests or other animals to enter the house. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to block out the elements and keep out drafts.
There are also different sizes that are available based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are circular or square. The best type of cat flap is determined by the space you website have available as well as the type of window or door you want to attach it to.
Last but not least, consider the type of opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is an choice and is typically the cheapest. But, it will not prevent other cats or pets from entering and you may let draughts in too.
Once you have selected the right cat flap and measured your door or window, it's time to fit it. Make a mark on the belly of the door using a ruler. Use a spirit-level to ensure that the line is not too low and is straight on the door. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, use a jigsaw to cut out the outline in the door. When you are satisfied with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for screws.
Prepare the Tools
Like any DIY tasks, it's advisable to make sure you have the proper tools to complete the task. The most important things you'll require are the cat flap, a tape measure and a good pencil as well as a spirit level, a file, drill and an Jigsaw (depending on your door or window type).
Contact the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal to be broken. 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 will require cutting out the design of your cat flap using a Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines given by the manufacturer. Use a template to determine the size of hole you need.
After you've made the hole, you'll have to sand the edges of the opening. This will help prevent any future water damage or rust. 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 the elements of wind and rain. After the sealant has dried, you can install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
The installation of a flap will allow your cat to move around whenever it wishes. This is a simple process that most people can accomplish on their own, but 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.
Check out the directions that came with your cat flap. You will get more info find a drawing of the template. This will provide you with an idea of where holes for the flap have to be drilled in the door. Then, mark the areas that you'll must drill using a pencil.
After you've marked the area in your door, use a jigsaw to cut out read more the design of the cat flap. This is a relatively easy task, but you will have to be comfortable using the saw. Many companies will do this for you at a reasonable price If you're not sure how to take on the task yourself.
Next, you will need to attach the interior part of the cat flap to the door's hole. It might be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this, in order to keep it waterproof and weatherproof. Then, you can put the outer portion of the flap on top of the fixing bolts, and tighten them all. You should test the flap on your cat to confirm that it is working correctly and that it allows them to exit and enter easily.