Fitting a Cat Flap
Getting a cat flap fitted inside your home can be a big step for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and needs extra security or you have a new kitten that need to be vetted there are plenty of options out there to choose from. It can be a bit daunting for those who aren't professionals to put in the cat flap, but with the right instructions it's easy. The key is preparation, planning and accuracy. Select the Right Door or Windows There are a variety of cat flaps available including some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from leaving or entering) and others with high-tech features like microchip door entry systems. It is important to consider how easy it will be to train your cat to use the flap, before you purchase and install one. It's best to place the cat flap, depending on the style of your home, inside a window that opens into a sheltered garden area. This will help your cat feel secure when entering and leaving your home. If you can, this will also give them a way back should they be chased by a cat or by a human intent on harming them. You can put the cat flap on a uPVC door or glass window however, it's not as straightforward as putting one in a wooden door. through wall cat flap is because uPVC and composite doors are available in different thicknesses, which can affect the way holes are cut as well as the materials you're fixing them into. If you're installing the flap on glass doors, it's recommended that you find a glazier who is experienced in this type of work to avoid any costly mistakes. If you are fitting the flap onto a wooden door, you should introduce your cat first to ensure that it becomes familiar with its size and shape. Find out the size of your cat's belly It is important to know the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap you put in is a good fit. This will allow you to ensure that your cat flap is installed at the right height on the door or window and that it's big enough to allow him to enter and leave easily. To do this, place your pet on their back and gently rub your fingers across their belly. Feel for any squishy fat pads – these may be visible around their lower back, face or legs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline acrobatics. You can also use the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you need. If your cat weighs more than 5Kg, for example the suggested cat flap opening size is 14 x 12cm. Make sure you measure your door or window The name implies this kind of cat flap is made to be attached to an opening and provide 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 gently pressing on either side. These flaps are available with locking options that provide additional security so your cat cannot simply walk through the door from outside. Cat flaps are also frequently used in windows. They are easy to be installed, but they have to be set at a high level as cats and dogs have a difficult time to access them. If the window is not sufficient in height to be used as a cat's flap, then you can opt for ramps, steps or specially designed stairs to aid the animal in getting to it. It is possible to install the cat flap onto brick walls, however it is not recommended for people who aren't familiar with the masonry industry. This could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it is important to make sure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. If there are, then an opening must be made for them. This is something you should always seek expert advice on. It is also recommended to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust protection mask to prevent inhaling any of the sawdust created by cutting into your home's walls. Select the Right Cat Flap There are numerous cat flaps available and each one comes with different features. Certain cat flaps come with security features such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition which prevent unauthorised entry. They also prevent your pet from allowing friends or animals to enter the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals that keep out the elements of moisture and draughts. There are different sizes that are available based on the breed and size of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, while others are circular or square. Choosing the right type of cat flap will be dictated by the space available as well as the type of window or door you are fitting it to. The last thing to do is think about the opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. A simple aluminium or plastic swing-out door is a good choice and is typically the cheapest. However, it won't keep other animals or cats from entering your home and you could let draughts through too. It's time to install your cat flap. Make a mark on the belly of the door using your ruler. Make use of a spirit-level to make sure that the line isn't too low and is straight on the door. Utilize your spirit level to draw a sketch of the flap for cats. Then, you can use your jigsaw to cut out the outline of the door. When you are satisfied with the result finish sanding the edges and drill through the pencil markings to make holes for screws. Prepare the Tools It is essential to have the right tools when doing any DIY project. You'll need the cat flap along with an eraser and tape measure as well as a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the type of window or door. If you're installing a composite door, consult with the manufacturer before making any changes, since this could invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this scenario you'll have to install an entirely new pane of toughened glass instead. For wooden or uPVC doors you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap using the jigsaw and follow the instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. Make use of a template to mark the size hole you need. After you've cut the required hole, you should then smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop any rust or water damage from happening in the near future. You should also seal the holes in your window or door and the back of the cat flap to block rain and wind. When the sealant has dried, you're ready to install your new cat flap! Install the Flap The installation of a flap will allow your cat to go and come whenever it wishes. This is a simple process that most people can complete by themselves, though you will likely require the help of a professional if you are installing the flap on a glass door or other type of uPVC door. Check out the directions included with your cat flap. There is an illustration of the template. This will give you an idea of where the holes for the flap have to be made in the door. Note the areas you'll have to drill with the pencil.
After you have mapped out the door's opening, use a jigsaw to cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task however, you'll need to be comfortable using the Jigsaw. Many companies will complete this for you for a reasonable price If you're not sure how to do it yourself. Then, attach the outer part to the hole of your door. It is possible to seal the flap prior to you do this in order to keep it weatherproof and watertight. You can then place the outer part of the flap on the top of the fixing bolts and tighten them all. You should test the cat flap on your cat to confirm that it's working properly and that it allows them to exit and enter easily.