Installing a cat flap in your home is a great option for any pet owner. If your cat is old and needs extra security or you have a new kitten that need to be vetted there are a lot of options there for you.
Installing a cat flap can be a daunting task for novices, but, with the right instructions, it's not difficult to complete. Preparation, planning and precision are the key to success.
Choose the Right Door or Window
There are a variety of cat flaps, some with locks that can be used to stop your pet from getting out or in, while others have modern features such as microchips or a door entry systems. It is important to consider how easy it will be to teach your cat to use the flap before you purchase and install one.
Depending on the style of your house, it's usually best to put the cat flap inside a window or door that opens onto an area that is protected from the garden, so that your cat is secure when going into and out of the house. If possible this will also allow them a way back should they be pursued by a different cat or by humans intent to harm them.
It's possible to install a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't the same as fitting one into a wood door. It's because uPVC or composite doors are available in a variety of thicknesses. This can impact the way holes are cut, and the material you put into.
To avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended that you consult a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a door with a glass front. If you're fitting the flap to an old wooden door, begin by introducing your cat to it prior to fitting it so that they can become familiar with its shape and size, and explore it from all angles.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
In order to put in an appropriate cat flap that is the right size for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat. This will enable you to make sure that the flap is at the right height for the door or window, and also that it's large enough for him to get in and exit easily.
To do this, put your pet on their back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Look for any squishy fat pads which might be visible around their lower back, face or legs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline Acrobatics.
You can also use your pet's weight to determine the size of an opening you require. If your cat weighs at or over 5kg, for example an opening of 14 x 12cm cat flap opening is advised.
Make sure you measure your door or window
This kind of cat flap, as the name suggests is made to be fitted into the door. It allows your pet to move in and out at their convenience. They are usually made from plastic or aluminium and simply are placed in the middle of the door. They have the possibility of a swinging door that is opened by pushing lightly on either side. They are available with locking options that provide additional security which means that your cat can't walk through the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also frequently employed in windows. They can be easily installed, but they need to be placed at a high level as cats and dogs find it difficult to get them. If the window is too high to use a cat flap, then ramps, steps, or specially constructed stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it.
It is possible to put a cat flap into a brickwall, but it is not recommended for those who aren't familiar with masonry. This could weaken the wall's structure. It is essential to ensure that there are no cables and pipes in the wall prior to you start. You should always consult an expert when you need to make a hole for pipes and cables. Wearing protective glasses or a dust mask will allow you to avoid breathing in the sawdust created when cutting into your walls.
Select the Cat Flap that is Right for You.
There are many different cat flaps available and they all have different features. Certain cat flaps come with security features, such as magnetic locks or microchips that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also keep your pet from letting guests or another animal into the home. Some have weatherproof seals and insulation to keep out moisture and draughts.
There are also different sizes that are available based on the breed and size of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular, while others are circular or square. The kind of cat flap you select will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the kind of door or window you're fitting it to.
Also consider the mechanism for opening your cat flap will come with. A simple aluminium or plastic swing-out door is an choice and is typically the least expensive. However, it will not prevent other cats or pets from gaining access and you could be letting draughts in too.
After you've chosen the right cat flap and measured your door or window, it's time to fit it. Determine the belly height of the door using your get more info ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is sitting straight on the door and not too low. Use your spirit level to draw a sketch of the cat flap. Then, using your saw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you are satisfied with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil markings to make holes for screws.
Prepare the Tools
As with any DIY jobs, it's always best to have the right tools for the job. The most important things you'll require are the cat flap itself as well as a tape measure, a decent pencil, a spirit level, drill, file, and a jigsaw (depending on your window or door type).
If you're installing a composite door, you should consult with the manufacturer prior to making any changes as this may cause the warranty to be invalidated or break the weathertight seal. In this instance it's likely you'll need to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.
For wooden or uPVC doors, you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap using a Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. If possible, you can use a template to help you mark out the size of hole you need to cut.
After you've cut the required hole, you'll need to sand down the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop any water damage or rust from occurring in the future. It is also recommended to seal the holes in your window or door and the side of the flap to prevent wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry and dry, you can install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to move around as it pleases, fitting a flap check here can help. The majority of people can install the flap themselves. check here However, if you want to install it on the form of a check here glass or uPVC type door, you might need a professional.
Begin by reading the instructions that come with the flap to locate the template drawing. This will provide you with an idea of where the holes for the flap need to be made in the door. Then, mark the places that you'll must drill using the pencil.
After you have mapped out the area in your door then use a jigsaw cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a relatively easy job, but you'll require a good understanding of the jigsaw. Numerous companies will perform this task for you for a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to tackle it yourself.
Then, screw the inner part to the hole of your door. It is possible to seal the flap prior to you do this, in order to keep it waterproof and weatherproof. You can then put the outer portion of the flap on top of the fixing bolts and tighten them all together. get more info You should test the flap on your cat to ensure that it is working correctly and that it allows them to enter and exit easily.