Installing a cat flap in your home is a great option for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and requires extra security, or you have kittens that need to be vetted there are plenty of options out there to choose from.
Installing a cat flap could be daunting for non-professionals but, with the right instructions, it's easy to do. Preparation, planning and precision are the most important factors.
Select the Right Door or Window
There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, including some with locks that can be used to prevent your pet from going out or inside, and others that have high tech features like microchip door entry system. It is important to consider how it is easy to train your cat to use the flap, before you buy and install one.
Depending on the design of your house, it's usually best to situate the cat flap near the form of a door or window that opens to an area that is protected from the garden so your cat is secure when leaving and entering the home. This will also enable them to return inside if they are chased by another animal or humans who want to harm them.
It is possible to install a cat flap in the case of a uPVC door or a glass window however, it's not as straightforward as fitting one into the door made of wood. This is because uPVC or composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses. This can affect the how holes are cut and what you fix into.
If you're installing the flap on a glass door it is recommended that you find a glazier who is experienced in this kind of work to avoid costly errors. If you're fitting the flap to the door made of wood, you should introduce your cat to it first to ensure that it becomes familiar with its dimensions and shape.
Find out the size of your cat's belly
In order to install an appropriate cat flap that is suitable for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat's height. This will ensure that the flap is the right height on your door or window and that it's big enough to allow them to enter and exit with ease.
Place your pet on its back and gently move your fingers across their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back and face, as well as the legs. The padding provides your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the acrobatics cats are known for.
Alternatively, you can also use your pet's weight to determine the size of an opening you require. If your cat weighs 5Kg, for example the suggested cat flap opening size is 14x12cm.
Take a measurement of your door or window
Like the name suggests this kind of cat flap is designed to be fixed into the door, and offers a way for your pet to go in or out at any time it wishes. The flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and are located in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that can be opened by gently pushing on either side. These flaps are available in locking versions which provide extra security so your cat cannot simply enter the door from outside.
Cat flaps are also often used in windows. They can be easily installed, however they have to be placed at a height where cats and dogs find it difficult to get 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 put a cat flap into the brick wall, however it is not recommended for those who aren't familiar with the masonry industry. This could cause the wall to weaken. It is essential to ensure that there are no cables and pipes within the wall before you start. If there are, a hole needs to be made for them. This is something you should always seek expert advice on. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask will help you avoid inhaling the sawdust created when you cut into your walls.
Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.
There are a variety of cat flaps available and they all have various features. Some cat flaps have security features such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also prevent your pet from allowing friends or animals to enter the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to keep out draughts and moisture.
There's also a range of sizes, based on the size and breed of more info your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, while others are circular or square. The type of cat flap you choose will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the kind of door or window you're installing it to.
Last but not least, take into consideration the kind of opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. However, it won't keep other animals or cats from entering and you may be letting draughts in as well.
It's time to put in your cat flap. Make a mark on the belly of the door using a ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is straight on the door and not check here too low. Utilize your spirit level replacement upvc door panel with cat flap to draw a template of the cat flap. Next, use your Jigsaw to cut the door's outline. Once you are happy with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil markings to create holes for screws.
Make the Tools
It's important to have the right tools for undertaking any DIY project. You'll need a cat flap as well as an eraser and tape measure as well as a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the kind of door or read more window.
Consult the manufacturer before making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal damaged. In this instance, it's likely that you'll need to replace the glass with a brand new piece of toughened glass.
You'll need to use a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap from a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the guidelines given by the manufacturer. If possible, you can use an example to mark out the size of the hole you'll will need to cut.
After you've cut the hole, you will have to sand off the edges of the opening. This will prevent any water damage or rust from occurring in the future. It is also recommended to seal the holes in your door or window and the back of the cat flap to block rain and wind. After the sealant has dried, you're ready to install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to go and come whenever it wants, installing a flap can help. The majority of people can install the flap themselves. However should you wish to put it in a glass or uPVC type door, you may need a professional.
Start by looking at the instructions provided with the flap to locate the template drawing. This will give an idea of where holes need to be made for the flap in the door. Then, more info mark the places where you need to drill with a pencil.
After you've marked the door's area, use a jigsaw to cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple job, but you'll have to be comfortable using the jigsaw. Many companies will complete this task for you at a reasonable price in case you're hesitant to take on the task yourself.
The next step is to attach the interior part of the cat flap to the door's hole. It is possible 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 cat flap on the top of the fixing bolts and tighten the bolts all together. You must test the cat flap on your cat to ensure that it functions properly and that it allows them to exit and enter easily.