Fitting a Cat Flap
Fitting a Cat Flap
Blog Article
Installing a cat flap into your home could be a major step for any pet owner. There are a variety of options to you, regardless of whether your cat is old and requires extra security or you have kittens that require to be checked.
Installing a cat flap could be a daunting task for novices, but, with the right instructions, it's not hard to do. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the most important factors.
Select the Right Door or Window
There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to stop your pet from getting out or in and others with modern features such as microchips or a door entry systems. It is important to think about how easy your cat is to teach to use the flap before you purchase and install one.
It is recommended to put the cat flap, depending on the style of your home, inside an opening that leads into an area of the garden that is protected. This will help your cat feel secure when entering and leaving your home. This will also allow them to go back inside in the event of being chased by another animal or human who wants to harm them.
It's possible to put the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as easy as putting one into a wood door. This is because uPVC and composite doors are available in different thicknesses, which affect the way holes are cut and the material you're fixing it into.
If you're installing the flap in the glass of a door it is recommended that you seek out a glazier that is skilled in such work to avoid any costly errors. If you are fitting the flap onto an existing wooden door it is recommended that you introduce your cat first so that it can become familiar with its dimensions and shape.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
In order to install an appropriate cat flap that is the right size for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's height. This will enable you to make sure that the flap is placed at the correct height on the door or window and also that it's large enough to allow him to enter and exit easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers over their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back or face, or around the limbs. The padding gives your pet safety and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the acrobatics cats are known for.
You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you require. If your cat weighs more than 5Kg, for example the suggested flap opening size is 14 x 12cm.
Measure your window or door
This kind of cat flap, as the name suggests, is made to be fitted into the door. It lets your pet be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. These flaps are constructed of aluminum or plastic and sit in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that opens by gently pushing on either side. These flaps are available with locking options which provide extra security so your cat cannot simply enter the door from outside.
A window is a common place to put a cat flap and these are easy read more enough to put in, but 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, then you can opt for ramps, steps or stairs that are specially designed to assist the animal in reaching it.
It is possible to install the cat flap onto brick walls, however it is not recommended for those who are not experienced in masonry. This could weaken the wall's structure. It is essential to ensure that there aren't any cables and pipes within the wall before you start. If there are, there must be a hole made for them. This is something that you should always seek expert advice on. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask can ensure that you don't breathe in the sawdust that is created when you cut website into your walls.
Choose the right cat flap
There are numerous cat flaps that are available on the market, and come with various features. Some flaps are equipped with security features like microchip recognition or magnetic locks that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also stop your pet from check here letting guests or other animals into the house. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals that keep out the elements of moisture and draughts.
There are various sizes that are available based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, whereas others are square or circular. Choosing the right type of cat flap will be determined by the space available and the type of window or door you intend to install it on.
Lastly, think about the opening mechanism that your cat flap will come with. The most affordable option is to use a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It won't stop other animals and cats from entering the room, and you could let in draughts.
It's time to install your cat flap. Begin by marking the height of the belly on the door with your ruler. Make use of a spirit-level to make sure that the line isn't too low and that it is straight across the door. Utilize your spirit level to draw a template for the flap for cats. Then, use a saw to cut out the door's outline. When you're happy with the result, sand the edges and drill through the pencil marks click here to make holes for the screws.
Prepare the Tools
It's essential to have the right tools available when undertaking any DIY project. The main things you'll need are the cat flap itself along with a tape measure, a decent pencil and a spirit level drill, file, and the jigsaw (depending on your windows or doors).
Check with the manufacturer prior to 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 probably need to fit an additional pane of toughened glass instead.
You'll require an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacture. Use a template to mark out the size hole you'll require.
After you've cut the required hole, you should then smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop future rust and water damage. You should also cover the holes in your window or door and the back of the flap to prevent wind and rain. Once the sealant has dried then you can put up your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to go and come whenever it wants, installing flaps can aid. This is a simple process that most people can accomplish by themselves, though you will likely need to hire a professional if you are installing the flap in a glass door or other kind of uPVC door.
Look at the instructions included with the cat flap. There is a drawing of the template. This will give you an idea of where holes need to be drilled to install the flap to be placed in the door. Mark the areas that you'll have to drill using a pencil.
After you've marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw and cut out the design for the cat flap. This is a relatively simple job however, you'll need to be comfortable with a jigsaw. Many companies will complete this for you for a reasonable price If you're not sure how to do it yourself.
The next step is to attach the interior part of the flap onto the door's hole. It may be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this, in order to get more info ensure it is waterproof and weatherproof. You can then put the outer portion of the cat flap on top of the fixing bolts and tighten them all. You should test the cat flap on your cat to confirm that it functions properly and that it allows them to enter and exit easily.