Fitting a Cat Flap

Fitting a Cat Flap

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Getting a cat flap fitted in to your home can be a big step for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and needs extra 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 a cat flap, but with proper instructions, it's simple. Planning, preparation and precision are the keys.

Select the Right Door or Windows

There are a wide variety 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 such as microchips for door entry systems. It is important to think about how easy it will be to teach your cat to use the flap, before you purchase and install one.

It is recommended to put the cat flap, based on the design of your home, inside an opening that leads into an area of the garden that is protected. This will help your cat feel secure when entering and leaving your home. This will also enable them to return inside in the event of being chased by another animal or humans who want to hurt them.

You can put an egress flap inside the form of a uPVC door or glass window however, it's not as simple as putting one in wooden doors. It's because uPVC or composite doors are available in a variety of thicknesses. This can impact the how holes are cut and the material you put into.

If you're installing the flap inside glass doors, it's recommended that you find a glazier who is experienced in such work to avoid costly mistakes. If you're fitting the flap into an existing wooden door, you should introduce your cat first to ensure that it becomes familiar with its dimensions and shape.

Measure Your Cat's Belly

In order to put in the right cat flap that's a good fit for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat. This will enable you to make sure that the flap is placed at the right height on the door or window, and that it is large enough for him to get in and leave easily.

To do this, place your pet on their back and run your fingers gently along their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back or face, or around the legs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline acrobatics.

You can also take into account 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 14x12cm.

Measure your window or door

This kind of cat flap, as its name suggests is designed to be installed into the door. It lets your pet be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. They are usually made from aluminum or plastic and sit in the centre of the door. They come with the possibility of a swinging door that opens by pushing lightly on either side. They can be locked that provide additional security which means that your cat can't traverse the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also commonly used in windows. They are easy to be installed, but they have to be set at an elevated level since cats and dogs have a difficult time to reach them. If the window is too high to be used as a cat flap then ramps, steps, or specially built stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it.

It is possible to install an egress into the brick wall, however it is not recommended for those who aren't experienced in the masonry industry. This could weaken the structure of the wall. It is essential to ensure that there are click here no cables and pipes in the wall prior to you begin. Always consult a professional if you need to cut a hole in the wall for pipes or cables. Wearing protective glasses or a dust mask will allow you to avoid breathing in the sawdust that is created when cutting through your walls.

Choose the right cat flap

There are numerous cat flaps on the market, and they have different features. Some have security options such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry and also restrict your pet from letting guests or other animals to enter the house. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to keep out the elements of moisture and draughts.

There are various sizes that are available based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, whereas others are square or circular. The type of cat flap you choose will depend on the size of the opening and the kind of door or window you're installing it to.

Also, think about the opening mechanism that your cat flap will come with. The most affordable option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. But, it will not prevent other cats or pets from gaining access and you could let draughts cat flap installer through as well.

Once you have selected the correct cat flap and measured your door or window, it's time to fit it. Determine the belly height of the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is sitting straight against the door and not too low. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, using a saw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you're happy with the results sand down the edges and then drill through the pencil lines to create holes for the screws.

Make sure you have get more info the tools ready

As click here with all DIY jobs, it's always advisable to make sure you have the appropriate tools for the job. The most important things you'll require are the cat flap as well as a tape measure, an excellent pencil as well as a spirit level, a file, drill and the Jigsaw (depending on the door or window type).

Consult the manufacturer before making any changes to a door made of composite. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal to become broken. In this scenario you'll have to install get more info an additional pane of toughened glass instead.

You'll require a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. Use a template to mark out the size hole you require.

After you've cut the hole, you'll have to sand the edges of the opening. This will help prevent future rust and water damage. 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 then you can put up your new cat-flap!

Install the Flap

The installation of a flap will allow your cat to move around whenever it pleases. Most people can install the flap on their own. However when you plan to install it in glass or uPVC type door, you may require an expert.

Start by looking at the instructions included with your cat flap to find the template. This will provide you with an idea of where the holes for the flap will need to be drilled into the door. Mark the areas that you'll have to drill using the pencil.

Once you have marked out the door's area, use a jigsaw to cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task, but you'll need to be comfortable using a jigsaw. If you're worried about doing it yourself, there are plenty of companies that can do this for you at a low cost.

Next, you will need to attach the inside of the flap onto the door's hole. You may need to apply sealant prior to making this move to ensure it stays watertight and weather resistant. The outside of your cat flap may be placed on top of the bolts, and then tightened together. It is recommended that you test the flap with your cat to ensure that it is working properly and that they can enter and leave easily through it.