Fitting a Cat Flap
Fitting a Cat Flap
Blog Article
Installing a cat flap in your home is a fantastic option for any pet owner. There are numerous options for you, no matter if your cat is getting older and requires additional security or if you have kittens that require to be checked.
Installing a cat flap can be daunting for non-professionals but, with the right instructions, it's not hard to complete. Preparation, planning and precision are the key to success.
Choose the Right Door, or Window
There are a wide variety of cat flaps that are available, some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from going out or entering) and others with high-tech features such as microchips for door entry systems. However, it's important to think about how easy your cat is to teach to use the flap prior to making a purchase and install one.
It is best to place the cat flap, based on the design of your home, in a window that opens into a garden that is sheltered. This will help your cat feel safe when entering or leaving your home. If you can it will also provide them a way back should they be chased by a cat or by humans intent to hurt them.
You can install a cat flap in a uPVC door or glass window however, it's not as easy as fitting one into a wooden door. This is due to the fact that uPVC and composite doors are available in various thicknesses, which affect the way holes are cut as well as the material you're fixing it into.
To avoid costly mistakes It is recommended that you consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If you're fitting the flap onto a wooden door you must introduce your cat to it at first to ensure that it becomes familiar with its size and shape.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
To install a cat flap that's the right size for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat's size. This will ensure that the flap is the correct 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 run your fingers along their belly. Find a 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, particularly when performing feline acrobatics.
You can also make use of your pet's weight to gauge how big an opening you need. If your cat weighs 5kg, for instance, the suggested cat flap size is 14 x 12cm.
Make sure you measure your windows or doors
This type of cat flap, as its name suggests, is made to be fitted into a door. It allows your pet to be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. They are typically made of plastic or aluminium and simply rest in the middle of the door. They come with the possibility of a swinging door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. They can be locked that offer added security, so your cat cannot simply walk through the door from outside.
A window is another common location for a cat flap, and they are simple enough to fit, although they usually need to be located high enough as it's difficult for dogs and cats to reach them otherwise. If the window is not sufficient to accommodate a cat's flap, then you can make use of ramps, steps, or stairs that are specially designed to aid the animal in getting to it.
It is possible to insert an egress into brick walls, however it is not recommended for those who aren't familiar with brickwork. This could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it's important to make sure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. Always consult an expert when you need to create a hole for cables and pipes. It's also advisable to wear protective goggles and a dust protection mask to avoid breathing in any sawdust that is created by cutting into the walls of your home.
Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.
There are a variety of cat flaps on the market, and all offer different features. Certain cat flaps come with security features, such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also prevent your pet from letting friends or other animals into the home. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to keep out draughts and moisture.
There's also a variety of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular, while 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 fitting it to.
The last thing to do is think about the opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is a good alternative and is usually the cheapest. However, it won't prevent other cats or pets from entering your home and you could be letting draughts in too.
It's time to install your cat flap. Begin by marking the belly height on the door using your ruler. Use a spirit-level to ensure that the line isn't more info too low and is in line with the door. Utilize your spirit click here level to draw a sketch of the flap for cats. Then, using your Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. Once you are happy with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for screws.
Make the Tools
Like any DIY tasks, it's recommended to have the proper tools for the job. You'll need the cat flap along with tape measure and pencil as well as a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the kind of door or window.
Contact the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal broken. In this instance you'll require a new pane of toughened glass instead.
For wooden or uPVC doors you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap with the Jigsaw. Follow the directions that are provided by the manufacturer. If you can, use an example to identify the size of hole you have to cut.
After you have cut the upvc door panel cat flap hole, you will need to sand the edges of the opening. This will prevent any rust or water damage from happening in the future. You should also seal the holes in your window or door and the back of the flap to prevent wind and rain. After the sealant has dried, you're ready to install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
The installation of a flap will allow your cat to come and go whenever it pleases. Most people can put in the flap by themselves. However should you wish to put it in a glass or get more info uPVC type door, you may need an expert.
Take a look at the instructions that came with the cat flap. You will find an illustration of the template. This will provide you with an idea of where holes for the flap will need to be drilled in the door. Mark the areas in which you will must drill using pencil.
After you have mapped out the door's opening, use a jigsaw to cut out the shape get more info of the cat flap. This is a relatively simple job, but you'll need to be comfortable using a jigsaw. Many companies will do this work for you at a reasonable price if you are hesitant to tackle it yourself.
Then, screw the inner part to the hole of your door. It might be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this in order to keep it waterproof and weatherproof. You can then place the outer part of the cat flap on the top of the fixing bolts and then tighten them all together. It is recommended that you test the flap using your cat to make sure that it works correctly and that they are able to enter and leave easily through it.