Fitting a Cat Flap
Fitting a Cat Flap
Blog Article
Installing a cat flap your home is a fantastic step for any pet owner. Whether 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 an animal flap, but with right instructions it's easy. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and accuracy.
Choose the Right Door, or Window
There are a variety of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to keep your pet from leaving or in, while others have advanced features like microchips for door entry systems. It's important to think about how it is easy to teach your cat how to use the flap, before you buy and install one.
It is recommended to put the cat flap, based on the design of your home, inside a window that opens into an area of the garden that is protected. This will help your cat feel secure when entering or leaving your home. This will also enable them to go back inside if they're chased by other animals or human beings who wish to hurt them.
You can put a cat flap in the form of a uPVC door or a glass window however, it's not as simple as fitting one into wooden doors. This is because uPVC and composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses, which can affect the way holes are cut as well as the material you're fixing it into.
To avoid costly mistakes to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended to consult a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you're installing the flap on a wooden door, start by introduction of your cat to it before you fit it, so that they be familiar with its size and shape and explore it from every angle.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
To install a cat flap that's a good fit for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat's height. This will enable you to ensure that your cat flap is installed at the correct height on the window or door, and also that it's large enough for him to get in and out easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Look for any fat pads that are squishy which might be visible around their lower back, face, and the limbs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline circus skills.
You can also use your pet's weight to gauge how big an opening you'll need. If your cat weighs at or above 5kg in weight for instance an opening of 14 x 12cm cat flap opening is recommended.
Take a measurement of your door or window
The name implies the cat flap is made to be attached to a door and provides a way for your pet to go in or out as it pleases. The flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that is opened by gently pressing on either side. These flaps can be locked which provide extra security so your cat cannot simply traverse the door from outside.
A window is another common location for a cat's flap, and they are simple enough to install, though they often need to be set up high as it is difficult for cats and dogs to here reach them otherwise. If the window isn't high enough to use a cat's flap, you can use ramps, steps or specially designed stairs to assist the animal in reaching it.
A cat flap can be installed to a brick wall, but this is not recommended unless you are experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it is important to ensure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. It is recommended to consult an expert if you have to cut a hole in the wall for pipes and cables. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask will allow you to avoid breathing in the dust that is generated when cutting into your walls.
Choose the right cat flap
There are a variety of cat flaps on the market and all of them offer various features. Certain cat flaps come with security features like microchip recognition or magnetic locks which prevent unauthorised entry. They also keep website your pet from letting friends or another animal into the home. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to block out the elements and keep out drafts.
There are also different sizes available depending on the breed and size of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular, while others are square or circular. Choosing the right type of cat flap will be determined by the space available and the type of door or window you intend to install it on.
Also, think about the opening mechanism that your cat flap will have. A simple aluminum or plastic swing-out door is an choice and is typically the cheapest. However, it won't prevent other cats or pets from entering your home and you could let draughts in as well.
It's time to put in your cat flap. Begin by marking the height of the belly on the door using your ruler. Make use of a spirit-level to make sure that the line is not too low and is in line with the door. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, you can use your jigsaw to cut out the outline of the door. Once you are satisfied with the result finish sanding the edges and drill through the pencil markings click here to make holes for screws.
Prepare the Tools
Like all DIY tasks, it's best to have the appropriate tools to complete the task. You'll require the cat flap, a pencil and tape measure along with a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the type of window or door.
Contact the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a door made of composite. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal damaged. In this case, it's likely that you'll have to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.
You'll need to use the jigsaw to cut your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the instructions given by the manufacturer. If you can, use an outline to help determine the size of the website hole you'll need to cut.
After you've cut the required hole, you must sand the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will prevent future rust and water damage. Finally, you should apply any sealant that is needed to the back of the cat flap, and to the holes in the window or door to keep out rain and wind. After the sealant has dried then you can put up your cat flap!
Install the Flap
Fitting a flap will allow your cat to come and go whenever it wishes. The majority of people can install the flap by themselves. However when you plan to install it on a glass or uPVC type door, you might need an expert.
Look at the instructions that came with the cat flap. You will find an illustration of the template. This will give an idea of where holes need to be drilled for the flap in check here the door. Then, mark the areas in which you will have to drill using a pencil.
After you have marked the door on your door, you can use the jigsaw and cut out the design for the cat flap. This is a relatively easy task, but you will require a good understanding of a Jigsaw. If you are 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 of the door to the hole in your door. It is possible to seal it prior to doing this to ensure that it stays watertight and weather resistant. The outer part of your cat flap could be placed on top of the bolts, and then tacked together. It is recommended that you test the flap with your cat to make sure that it functions properly and that they are able to get in and out of it.