Fitting a Cat Flap

Fitting a Cat Flap

Blog Article

Installing a cat flap in your home is a great step for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and needs extra security or you have new kittens who require a vet check there are plenty of options out there for you.

It can be difficult for people who aren't experts in installing an animal flap, but with proper instructions, it's simple. Planning, preparation and precision are the keys.

Select the Right Door or Windows

There are many different types of cat flaps, some with locks that can be used to keep your pet from going out or in and others with high tech features like microchip door entry systems. However, it's important to think about how easy it is for your cat to train to use the flap prior to making a buy and install one.

Based on the style of your house, it's usually best to situate the cat flap near an opening or window that opens out into a sheltered area of the garden, so that your cat can feel safe when entering and leaving the home. If possible, this will also give them a way back should they be chased by a cat or by a human intent to hurt them.

It's possible to put a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as easy as putting one into a wood door. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in a variety of thicknesses. This can impact the method of cutting holes, and what you fix into.

To avoid costly mistakes It is recommended to consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a door with a glass front. If you're installing the flap onto a wooden door it is recommended that you introduce your cat first to ensure that it becomes familiar with its size and shape.

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 a good fit. This will ensure that the flap is the correct height on your door or window and that it's big enough to allow them to enter and exit easily.

To do this, put your pet on their back and gently rub your fingers across their belly. Look for any fat pads that are squishy which could be visible on their lower back, face, and the limbs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline circus skills.

You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine how large opening you require. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg, for example the suggested cat flap opening size is 14 x 12cm.

Measure Your Door or Window

This type of cat flap, as the name suggests is designed to be installed into a door. It allows your pet to enter and exit at its convenience. They are usually made of aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door. They have the possibility of a swinging door that opens by pushing lightly on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps that provide added security so your cat won't be able to simply enter the door from the outside.

Cat flaps are also often employed in windows. They can be easily installed, however they have to be set at a high level as cats and dogs find it difficult to get them. If the window is too high to be used as a cat flap then ramps, steps or website specially built stairs can be utilized to assist the animal get access to it.

A cat flap could be installed into a brick wall, however this is not recommended unless you're familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it is important to ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. Always consult a professional if you need to create a hole for cables and pipes. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask can help you avoid inhaling the sawdust that is created when cutting into your walls.

Select the Right Cat Flap

There are numerous cat flaps on the market and they all have different features. Some are equipped with security features such as magnetic locks or microchips that stop unauthorized entry and stop your pet allowing friends or other animals into the house. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals that keep out draughts and moisture.

There is also a choice of sizes, based on the size and breed of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, while others are circular or square. The type of cat flap you pick will depend on the size of the opening and cat flap in upvc door panel the kind of door or window you're fitting it to.

The last thing to do is take into consideration the kind of opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. A simple aluminum or plastic swing-out door is a good choice and is typically the least expensive. However, it will not keep other animals or cats from entering your home and you could let draughts through as well.

It's time to install your cat flap. Begin by marking the height of the belly on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure the line is not too low and is in line with the door. Create a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, you can use your Jigsaw to cut the door's outline. When you are satisfied with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil markings to create holes for screws.

Prepare the Tools

It's essential to have the right tools when doing any DIY project. You'll require the cat flap as well as a pencil and tape measure along with a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the kind of door or window.

If you're installing a composite door, consult with the manufacturer prior to making any changes because this could invalidate the warranty or here break the weathertight seal. In this instance, you'll probably have to install a new pane of toughened glass instead.

For wooden or uPVC doors, you'll need to cut out the shape of your cat flap using the Jigsaw. Follow the directions that are provided by the manufacturer. Make use of a template to mark out the size hole you'll need.

After you've made the hole, you must sand down the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will more info prevent any future water damage or rust. Also, you should apply any sealant that is needed to the rear of the cat flap, and to the holes in the door or window to block rain and wind. After the sealant has dried then you're now ready to put in your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to be able to come and go whenever it wants, installing a flap can help. This is a simple process that most people can complete by themselves, though you may require the assistance of more info a professional if you are installing the flap in an unglazed door or any other type of uPVC door.

Begin by reading the instructions that come with your cat flap to locate the drawing template. This will give an idea of the location where the holes will be made for the flap in the door. Note the areas you'll have to drill using pencil.

After you have mapped out the area in your door and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a relatively simple task however, you'll need to be comfortable with the Jigsaw. If you're worried about doing this yourself, there are many companies that can do this for you at a very low cost.

Then, attach the outer part to the hole of your door. You may need to seal it prior to doing this to ensure it remains weather-proof and water resistant. The outside of your cat flap could be placed on top of the bolts, and then tightened together. You must test the cat flap on your cat to confirm that it functions properly and allows them to exit and enter easily.