Fitting a Cat Flap

Fitting a Cat Flap

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Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is a fantastic option for any pet owner. If your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have new kittens that need to be vetted there are plenty of options out there to choose from.

It can be a bit daunting for people who aren't experts in installing the cat flap, but with the right instructions it's easy. The key is preparation, planning and accuracy.

Choose the Right Door or Window

There are a wide variety of cat flaps that are available, some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet going out or entering) and others with high-tech features like microchip door entry systems. It is important to think about how it is easy to train your cat to use the flap, before you purchase and install one.

Based on the style of your home, it's generally best to place the cat flap near an opening or window 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 you can it will also provide them a way back should they get chased by a cat or by humans who are intent to harm them.

It's possible to put the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as simple as installing one into a wood door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors come in various thicknesses, which affect how holes are cut and what you're fixing into.

If you're installing the flap inside glass doors it is recommended to find a glazier who is experienced in such work to avoid costly errors. If you're installing the flap to a wooden door, start by introducing your cat to it prior to fitting it to allow them to get used to its shape and size and explore it from every angle.

Find out the size of your cat's belly

You'll need your cat's measurements to make sure that the cat flap you put in is the perfect 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 is large enough for him to enter and leave easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Look for any fat pads that are squishy which might be visible around their 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 famous for.

You can also take into account the weight of your pet to determine how large opening you require. If your cat weighs at or above 5kg in weight, for example that's a 14x12cm cat flap opening is advised.

Measure Your Door or Window

As the name suggests the cat flap is designed to be fixed into the door, and offers the pet with a way to enter or leave as it pleases. These flaps are made of plastic or aluminum and are located in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that opens by gently pressing on either side. There are locks on some of these flaps, which provide added security so your cat won't be able to simply walk through from the outside.

A window is a common location for a cat flap and these are easy enough to put in, but they are usually placed high up as it's difficult for cats and dogs to reach them otherwise. If the window is not high enough to use the flap for cats, you can make use of steps, ramps or stairs that are specially designed to aid the animal in getting to it.

A cat flap could be installed into a brick wall, however this is not recommended unless you're experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the wall's structure. It is essential to ensure that there aren't any cables and pipes inside the wall before you start. If there are, a hole needs to be created for them and this is something you should always seek professional advice on. Wearing protective glasses or a dust mask will allow you to avoid breathing in the sawdust that is created when cutting into your walls.

Select the Right website Cat Flap

There are many different cat flaps on the market and each one comes with various features. Some are equipped with security features such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition to prevent unauthorized entry and also stop your pet allowing pets or friends into the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to keep out the elements of moisture and draughts.

There are also different sizes that are available based on the size and breed of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, while others are square or circular. The click here kind of cat flap you select will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the type of window or door you're installing it to.

Finally, think about the opening mechanism that your cat flap will have. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is a good alternative and is usually the cheapest. It will not stop other animals and cats from entering however, and you could be letting get more info in drafts.

Once you have selected the correct cat flap and measured the door or window and window, it's now time to put it in place it. Determine the belly height of the door using your ruler. Use a spirit-level to make sure that the line is not too low and that it is straight across the door. Use your spirit level to draw a sketch of the flap for cats. Then, use a saw to cut out the door's outline. When you're satisfied with the result, sand the edges and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for screws.

Make the Tools

It's essential to have the right tools available when doing any DIY project. The main things you'll need are the cat flap itself along with a tape measure, a decent pencil as well as a spirit level, a file, drill and the jigsaw (depending on your windows or doors).

Consult the manufacturer before making any changes to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to become damaged. In this scenario you'll require an additional pane of toughened glass instead.

For wooden or uPVC doors will require cutting out the shape of your cat flap using a Jigsaw. Follow the directions provided by the manufacturer. If possible, use an outline to help determine the size of hole you'll have to cut.

After you've made the hole, you'll need to sand down the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop the possibility of water upvc door panels with cat flap damage and rust. In the end, you must apply any necessary sealant to the back of the cat flap, and to the holes in the window or door to keep out rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry it is time to install your new cat-flap!

Install the Flap

The installation of a flap will allow your cat to go and come whenever it pleases. The majority of people can install the flap by themselves. However when you plan to install it in a glass or uPVC type door, you may need a professional.

Take a look at the instructions 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. Mark the areas that you'll must drill using pencil.

Once you have marked out the door's opening, use a jigsaw to cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a relatively simple task, but you'll need to be comfortable with the Jigsaw. If you are worried about doing this yourself, there are plenty of businesses that can handle this for you at a low cost.

Then, screw the inner part to the hole of your door. It is possible to seal it prior to doing this to ensure it remains weather-proof and water resistant. The outer section of your cat flap could more info be placed on the bolts' tops and then securing them. It is recommended that you test the flap with your cat to ensure that it works correctly and that they can get in and out of it.