Fitting a Cat Flap

Fitting a Cat Flap

Blog Article

Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is a great option for any pet owner. There are a variety of options for you, whether your cat is older and requires additional security, or you have kittens that need to be examined.

It can be intimidating for people who aren't experts in installing the cat flap, but with the right instructions it's easy. Preparation, planning and precision are the keys.

Choose the Right Door, or Window

There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, including some with locks that can be used to keep your pet from going out or in, while others have advanced features like microchips for door entry systems. But, it's important to think about how easy your cat is to teach to use the flap prior to making a purchase and fit one.

Depending on the style of your house, it's generally best to put the cat flap near an opening or window that opens to an area of protection in the garden so your cat can feel safe when entering and leaving the home. If you can it will also provide them a route back in case they are chased by another cat or by humans intent to hurt them.

It's possible to install a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it's not the same as fitting one into a wood door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses, which can affect the way holes are cut as well as the materials you're fixing them into.

If you're installing the flap inside a glass door, it's recommended that you find a glazier who is experienced in this kind of work to avoid costly errors. If you're installing the flap in the door made of wood, start by the cat with it before you fit it, so that they get used to its size and shape and explore it from all angles.

Find out the size of your cat's belly

In order to install an appropriate cat flap that is a good fit for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat's height. This will help you ensure that the flap is the correct height on your window or door and that it's large enough to allow them to get in and exit easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Look for a fat pad that is squishy around the lower back, face or limbs. The padding gives your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics that felines are famous for.

You can also use the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you require. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg in weight, for example, a 14 x 12cm cat flap opening is recommended.

Make sure you measure your door or window

This kind of cat flap, as the name suggests is designed to be affixed to the door. It lets your pet enter and exit at its convenience. These flaps are constructed of plastic or aluminum and are located in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that is opened by lightly pushing on either side. The flaps are available in locking versions that provide additional security so your cat cannot simply walk through the door from outside.

A window is a common location for a cat's flap and these are easy enough to fit, although they usually need to be located high enough as it's difficult for dogs and cats to access them. If the window isn't high enough to use a cat's flap, you can use steps, ramps or stairs that are specially designed to help the animal reach it.

Cat flaps can also be fitted into a brick wall but it is not recommended unless you are experienced in masonry work as it could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it's important to ensure that more info the wall is free of pipes and cables. If they are, a hole needs to be created for them and this is something that you should always seek professional advice on. Wearing protective goggles or a get more info dust mask will allow you to avoid breathing in the sawdust created when cutting through your walls.

Select the Right Cat Flap

There are a variety of 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 stop your pet allowing pets or friends into the home. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to block out draughts and moisture.

There's also a variety of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, whereas others are square or circular. The kind 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.

The last thing to do is consider the type of opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is an choice and is typically the cheapest. It will not stop other animals and cats from entering, and you could also be letting in drafts.

After you've chosen the appropriate cat flap and measured your door or window, it's time to fit it. Begin by marking the height of the belly on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure 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 a jigsaw, cut out the outline of the door. When you are satisfied with the result finish sanding the edges and drill fitting a cat flap in a upvc door through the pencil lines to create holes for screws.

Make the Tools

As with here all DIY jobs, it's always advisable to make sure you have the right tools for the job. The most essential things you'll need are the cat flap itself along with a tape measure, an excellent pencil, a spirit level, drill, file, and the jigsaw (depending on the window or door type).

If you're installing in a composite door, consult with the manufacturer prior to making any changes, since this could invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this scenario you'll likely need to fit an entirely new pane of toughened glass instead.

You'll need to use a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacture. Make use of a template to mark the size hole you'll need.

After you've cut the hole, you will have to sand the edges of the opening. This should prevent any rust or water damage from happening in the future. Finally, you should apply any necessary sealant check here to the rear of the cat flap and to the holes in the door or window to block the elements of wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry then you're now ready to put in your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

Installing a flap allows your cat to come and go whenever it wishes. Most people can install the flap on their own. However, if you want to install it in glass or uPVC type door, you may need a professional.

Begin by studying the instructions provided with the flap to locate the template. This will give an idea of where holes need to be drilled to install the flap to be placed in the door. Then, mark the areas that you'll have to drill using a pencil.

After you have marked the door on your door, use the jigsaw and cut out the design for the cat flap. This is a fairly simple job however, you'll need to be comfortable with a saw. Numerous companies will perform this for you for a reasonable price If you're not sure how to take on the task yourself.

The next step is to attach the inside of the flap onto the hole in your door. You may need to apply sealant prior to doing this to ensure it is weather and water resistant. Then, you can put the outer portion of the flap on top of the fixing bolts, and tighten them all together. It is recommended to test the flap using your cat to make sure that it functions properly and that they are able to enter and leave easily through it.