Fitting a Cat Flap
Getting a cat flap fitted into your home could be a big step for any pet owner. If your cat is old and needs extra security or you have a new kitten that require a thorough screening there are plenty of options out there for you. It can be intimidating for non-professionals to install an animal flap, but with proper guidelines, it's easy. Planning, preparation and precision are the key to success. Select the Right Door, or Windows There are a variety of cat flaps available including some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet going out or coming in) and others with advanced features such as microchip door entry systems. It is important to consider how easy it is for your cat to train to use the flap before you buy and install one. It is recommended to put the cat flap, based on the design of your house, in the form of a window that opens to a sheltered garden area. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering and leaving your home. cat flap installation will also enable them to return inside if they are pursued by a pet or human beings who wish to harm them. You can put the cat flap on a uPVC door or glass window however it's not as easy as fitting one into the door made of wood. This is because uPVC and composite doors are available in different thicknesses, and this can impact how holes are cut and the material you're fixing it to. If you're installing the flap on glass doors it is recommended to seek out a glazier that is skilled in such work to avoid any costly errors. If you are fitting the flap to a wooden door, you should introduce your cat to it at first to make sure it is familiar with its size and shape. Find out the size of your cat's belly You'll need the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you choose to install is a perfect fit. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is the right height on your door or window and that it's wide enough to allow them to get in and out easily. Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Look for a fat pad that is squishy around the lower back and face, as well as the legs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline Acrobatics. You can also take into account the weight of your pet to determine the size of opening you require. If your cat weighs more than 5Kg, for example, the suggested cat flap size is 14x12cm. Measure your windows or doors As the name suggests this kind of cat flap is designed to be fixed into an opening and provide a way for your pet to leave or enter whenever it wants. These flaps are made of aluminum or plastic and sit in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that is opened by lightly pushing on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps, which provide added security so your cat won't be able to simply enter the door from the 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 located high enough as it's difficult for cats and dogs to access them. If the window is not sufficient in height to be used as the flap for cats, you can make use of ramps, steps or stairs that are specially designed to help the animal reach it. It is possible to put an egress into a brickwall, but it is not recommended for those who aren't experienced in masonry. This could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it's essential to make sure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. If they are, there must be a hole created for them and this is something that you should always seek expert advice on. It's also advisable to wear safety goggles and a dust-proof mask to prevent inhaling any of the sawdust created by cutting into the walls of your house. Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you. There are numerous cat flaps on the market and they all have different features. Some cat flaps have security features like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry. They also keep your pet from letting guests or other animals into the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals that keep out water and drafts. There are different sizes available depending on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular, 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 type of window or door you're fitting it to. Finally think about the opening mechanism that your cat flap is likely to have. The most affordable option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It won't prevent other animals and cats from entering, and you could also be letting in drafts. It's time to put in your cat flap. Mark the belly height of the door using a ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is sitting exactly on the door and not too low. Create a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Next, use your Jigsaw to cut the outline of the door. Once you're happy with the results sand down the edges and then drill through the pencil marks to make holes for the screws. Make sure you have the tools ready Like any DIY jobs, it's always best to have the proper tools for the job. The most important things you'll require are the cat flap as well as a tape measure, a good pencil as well as a spirit level, drill, file, and a Jigsaw (depending on your windows or doors). Consult the manufacturer before making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to be broken. In this instance you'll need to fit an additional pane of toughened glass instead. You'll need to use an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions provided by the manufacture. Use a template if possible to mark out the size hole you'll require. After you have cut the hole, you will have to sand the edges of the opening. This will stop any future water damage or rust. It is also recommended to seal the holes in your window or door and the back of the cat flap to block 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 be able to come and go at will, installing flaps can be helpful. It's a simple procedure that most people can accomplish on their own, but you will likely require the help of a professional if you are installing the flap on an unglazed door or any other type of uPVC door. Start by looking at the instructions included with the flap to locate the drawing template. This will provide you with an idea of where the holes for the flap have to be drilled in the door. Note the areas you'll need to drill into using pencil. After you have mapped out the area in your door then use a jigsaw cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a fairly simple job, but you'll need to be comfortable with a jigsaw. If you are worried about doing this yourself, there are a lot of businesses that can handle this for you at a minimal cost. Next, you will need to screw the inner part of the flap onto the hole in your door. You may have to apply sealant before 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 securing them. You should test the flap on your cat to confirm that it functions properly and that it allows them to exit and enter easily.