Fitting a Cat Flap
Fitting a Cat Flap
Blog Article
Installing a cat flap in to your home can be a major step for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and needs extra security or you have new kittens that require a thorough screening there are plenty of options there to choose from.
Installing a cat flap can be daunting for non-professionals but, with the right instructions, it's not difficult to accomplish. The key is preparation, planning and precision.
Select the Right Door or Window
There's a wide selection of cat flaps available, some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet going out or coming in) and others with high-tech features like microchip door entry systems. However, it's important to think about how easy your cat is to train to use the flap before you purchase and fit one.
It is recommended to put the cat flap, based on the design of your home, in the form of a window that opens to a garden that is sheltered. This will help your cat feel secure when entering and leaving your home. If you can, this will also give them a route back in should they get chased by another cat or by humans who are intent on harming them.
It is possible to install a cat flap in the case of a uPVC door or glass window however, it's not as simple as putting one in wooden doors. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors are available in various thicknesses, which affect how holes are cut and the materials you're fixing them into.
To avoid costly errors, it is recommended to consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If you're fitting the flap to a wooden door, start by introducing your cat to it prior to fitting it so that they can get used to its shape and size and explore it from every angle.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
To install a cat flap that's suitable for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's height. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is the right height on your window or door and that it's big enough to allow them to get in and exit easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers across their belly. Look for a fat pad that is squishy around the lower back and face, as well as the legs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline acrobatics.
You can also make use of your pet's weight to determine the size of an opening you require. If your cat is at or above 5kg in weight, for example an opening of 14 x 12cm cat flap opening is recommended.
Make sure you measure your window or door
This type of cat flap, as the name suggests, is made to be fitted into the door. It lets your pet move in and out at their convenience. These flaps are constructed of aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that can be opened by lightly pushing on either side. There are locks on some of these flaps that provide added security so your cat can't simply traverse through the door from outside.
A window is another common place to put a cat flap, and they are simple enough to install, though they often need to be placed high up as it's difficult for cats and dogs to here access them. If the window is too high for a cat flap, steps, ramps or purpose built stairs can be used to help the animal access it.
A cat flap can be installed into a brick wall, however it is not recommended unless familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's important to ensure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. 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 ensure that you don't breathe in the dust that is generated when cutting through your walls.
Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.
There are a variety of cat flaps on the market, and all offer various features. Some come with security options like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry and also restrict your pet from letting guests or other animals to enter the house. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to block out draughts and moisture.
There are different sizes available depending on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are available in rectangular shapes, while others are square or circular. The kind of cat flap you choose will depend on the size of the opening and the type of window or door you're fitting it to.
The last thing to do is think about the opening mechanism your cat flap will use. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It won't stop other cats and pets from entering, and you could also be letting in drafts.
After you've chosen the right cat flap and measured your window or door then it's time to install it. Start by marking the belly's height on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit-level to make sure the line isn't too low and is in line with the door. Use your spirit level to draw a template of the flap for cats. Then, using your saw, cut out the outline of the door. Once you're happy with the results sand down cat flap cover for winter the edges and then drill through the pencil lines to make holes for the screws.
Make the Tools
Like any DIY tasks, it's best to have the right tools read more for the job. The most essential things you'll need are the cat flap along with a tape measure, an excellent pencil and a spirit level drill, file, and the jigsaw (depending on your windows or doors).
If you're installing a composite door, it is recommended to consult with the manufacturer before making any changes as this may cause the warranty to be invalidated or break the weathertight seal. In this instance, you'll probably have to install a new pane of toughened glass instead.
You'll require the jigsaw to cut your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions given by the manufacturer. If possible, you can use an outline to help mark out the size of hole you will need to cut.
After you've cut the hole, you'll need to sand the edges of the opening. This will prevent any water damage or rust from happening in the future. In the end, you must apply any necessary sealant to the back of the cat flap as well as to the holes in the window or door to keep out the elements of wind and rain. After the sealant has dried, you're ready to install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to move around as it pleases, fitting a flap can help. Most people can install the flap by themselves. However, if you want to install it in the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you may need a professional.
Start by looking at the instructions that come with the flap to locate the template drawing. This will give you an idea of where holes for the flap will need to be drilled in the door. Note the areas you'll need to drill into with pencil.
After you've marked the area in your door and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a relatively easy task, but you will have to be comfortable using the saw. Numerous companies will perform this work for you at a reasonable cost in case you're hesitant to take on the task yourself.
The next step is to attach the interior part of the flap onto the hole in your door. It here may be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this, in order to ensure it is waterproof and weatherproof. You can then put the outer part of the flap on top of the fixing bolts and then tighten the bolts all together. It is recommended to test the flap using your cat to ensure that it works correctly and that they can enter and leave easily through read more it.