Fitting a Cat Flap

Fitting a Cat Flap

Blog Article

Installing a cat flap inside your home can be a huge step for any pet owner. There are numerous options for you, whether your cat is old and requires extra security or if you have kittens who need to be examined.

It can be difficult for those who aren't professionals to put in a cat flap, but with the right instructions it's easy. The most important thing is planning, preparation and precision.

Select the Right Door, or Windows

There's a wide selection of cat flaps that are available including some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet going out or entering) and others that have 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 buy and install one.

Depending on the design of your home, it's usually best to put the cat flap in the form of a door or window that opens to a sheltered area of the garden so that your cat can feel safe when going into and out of the house. This will also allow them to get back inside if they're pursued by a pet or humans who want to harm them.

You can put the cat flap on the case of a uPVC door or glass window, but it's not as straightforward as putting one in the door made of wood. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in various thicknesses. This can impact the how holes are cut and the type of door you can fix to.

If you're installing the flap on the glass of a door it is recommended that you seek out a glazier that is skilled in this kind of work to avoid costly mistakes. If you're fitting the flap in an old wooden door, begin by introduction of your cat to it prior to fitting it to allow them to be familiar with its shape and size and explore it from all angles.

Find out the size of your cat's belly

In order to put in the right cat flap that's a good fit for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is the right height on your door or window, and that it's big enough to allow them to get in and exit with ease.

To do this, lay your pet on their back and run your fingers gently along their belly. Look for any fat pads that are squishy that could be visible on their lower back, face or legs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline circus skills.

You can also use the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you need. If your cat weighs at or above 5kg in weight, for example, a 14 x 12cm flap for your cat is advised.

Take a measurement of your windows or doors

This kind of cat flap, as the name suggests, is made to be fitted into a door. It lets your pet move in and out at their convenience. They are usually made from plastic or aluminium and simply rest in the middle of the door. They have the possibility of a swinging door that is opened by pushing lightly on either side. The flaps can be locked that offer added security, so that your cat is not able to enter the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also often used in windows. They are easy to be installed, however they have to be set at a high level check here as cats and dogs have a difficult time to reach them. If the window is not sufficient in height to be used as a cat's flap, then you can make use of steps, ramps or specially designed stairs to aid the animal in getting to it.

Cat flaps can be installed into a brick wall but this is not recommended unless familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the structure of the wall. It is essential to ensure that there aren't any cables or pipes within the wall before you begin. Always consult a professional if you need to make a hole for cables and pipes. It's also advisable to wear protective goggles and a dust protection mask to avoid inhaling any of the sawdust created by cutting into the walls of your house.

Select the Right Cat Flap

There are many different cat flaps available and they all have different features. Some come with security options upvc door panel with cat flap such as magnetic locks or microchips that block entry by unauthorized persons and restrict your pet from letting guests or other animals to enter the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to keep out draughts and moisture.

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

Lastly, think about the mechanism for opening your cat flap will come with. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is an alternative and is usually the least expensive. It won't stop cat flap fitting other animals and cats from entering the room, and you could let in draughts.

It's time to put in your cat flap. Determine the belly height of the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is straight on the door and not too low. Create a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, more info use a jigsaw to cut out the door's outline. When you're satisfied with the results sand down the edges and then drill through the pencil lines to make holes for the screws.

Make sure you have the tools ready

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

If you're installing in a composite door, you should check with the manufacturer prior to making any alterations as this may affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this instance it's likely that you'll need to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass.

For wooden or uPVC doors you'll need to cut out the shape of your cat flap with the jigsaw and follow the instructions given by the manufacturer. If you can, use an outline to help identify the size of the hole you will need to cut.

After you've cut the required hole, you'll need to smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will help prevent the possibility of water damage and rust. In the end, you must apply any sealant you require to the rear of the cat flap as well as to the holes in the click here door or window to keep out the elements of wind and rain. When the sealant has dried and dry, you can install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

Fitting a flap will allow your cat to go and come whenever it pleases. Most people can install the flap by themselves. However, if you want to put it in a glass or uPVC type door, you may need an expert.

Check out the directions included with your cat flap. You will find a template drawing. This will give you an idea of where the holes for the flap will need to be drilled in the door. Mark the areas in which you will need to drill with the pencil.

After you've marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw and cut out the shape for the cat flap. This is a relatively simple job however you'll need be comfortable with the saw. Many companies will complete this for you for a reasonable price If you're not sure how to tackle it yourself.

Next, you will need to attach the inside of the cat flap to the hole in your door. It might be necessary to seal the flap before you do this in order to ensure it is weatherproof and watertight. You can then put the outer section of the flap on the top of the fixing bolts, and tighten the bolts all together. You should test the flap on your cat to confirm that it functions properly and allows them to exit and enter easily.