Fitting a Cat Flap

Fitting a Cat Flap

Blog Article

Getting a cat flap fitted into your home could be a big step for any pet owner. There are numerous options for you, whether your cat is old and needs extra security or you have kittens who need to be vetted.

It can be difficult for those who aren't professionals to put in an animal flap, but with the right instructions it's easy. The key is preparation, planning and accuracy.

Choose the Right Door, or Window

There are a variety of cat flaps that are available including some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from leaving or entering) and others with advanced features such as microchips for door entry systems. It is important to think about how easy it will be to teach your cat to use the flap before you purchase and install one.

It is recommended to put the cat flap, based on the style of your home, inside the form of a window that opens to a sheltered garden area. This will help your cat feel secure when entering or leaving your home. If you can this will also allow them a way back should they get pursued by a different cat or by humans who are intent on harming them.

You can put an egress flap inside a uPVC door or a glass window however it's not as straightforward as fitting one into a wooden door. It's because uPVC or composite doors come in different thicknesses. This could affect the way holes are cut, and the material you put to.

To avoid costly errors It is recommended that you consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If you are fitting the flap into the door made of wood it is recommended that you introduce your cat to it first so that it can become familiar with its size and shape.

Take a look at your cat's belly measurement

You'll need the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap you put in is a perfect fit. This will help you ensure that the flap is at the right height on your door or window, and that it's big enough to allow them to get in and exit easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers over their belly. Look for any squishy fat pads which may be visible around their lower back, face or the limbs. The padding gives your pet safety and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics felines are famous for.

Alternately, you could use your pet's weight to determine the size of an opening you'll need. If your cat weighs 5Kg, for example, the suggested cat flap opening size is 14 x 12cm.

Make sure you measure your door or window

The name implies the cat flap is designed to be affixed to the door, and offers a way for your pet to go in or out whenever it wants. They are usually made of aluminum or plastic and sit in the centre of the door with a two-way swinging door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. These flaps are available in locking versions that provide additional security so that your cat is not able to enter the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also often used on windows. They are able to be easily installed, but they need to be set at a high level as cats and dogs find it difficult to reach them. If the window isn't sufficient in height to be used as the flap for cats, you can opt for steps, ramps or stairs that are specially designed to help the animal reach it.

A cat flap can also be fitted to a brick wall, but this is not recommended unless familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the structure of the wall. It's important to check that there aren't any cables and pipes within the wall before you start. If they read more are, there must be a hole made for them. This is something that you should always seek expert advice on. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask can allow you to avoid breathing in the sawdust created when you cut into your walls.

Select the Right Cat Flap

There are many cat flaps available on the market, and they have various features. Some cat flaps have security features such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry. They also stop your pet from letting friends or another animal into the home. Certain seals are weatherproof and have insulation to block out draughts and moisture.

There are also different sizes that are available based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are rectangular, while others are circular or square. The best type of cat flap will be determined by the space you have available as well as the type of door or window you are fitting it to.

Also consider the mechanism to open your cat flap is likely to have. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is one choice and is typically the cheapest. It won't prevent other cats and pets from entering however, and you could let in draughts.

It's time to put in your cat flap. Determine the belly height of the check here door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is straight on the door and not too low. Use your spirit level to draw a template for the flap for cats. Then, using your jigsaw, cut out 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 the Tools

As with any DIY tasks, it's advisable to make sure you have the appropriate tools for the job. The most important things you'll require are the cat flap along with a tape measure, a decent pencil as well as a spirit level, drill, file, and an jigsaw (depending on the windows or doors).

If you're installing a composite door, consult with the manufacturer before making any alterations since this could affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this case it's likely that you'll have to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass.

For wooden or uPVC doors will require cutting out the design of your cat flap using the Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. Use a template to mark the size hole you'll need.

After you have cut the hole, check here you will have to sand off the edges of the opening. This should prevent any water damage or rust from happening in the future. Also, you check here should apply any necessary sealant to the rear of the cat flap and to the holes in the window or door to keep out the elements of wind and rain. When the sealant has dried then you're now ready to put in your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

Fitting a flap will allow your cat to go and come whenever it wishes. Most people can put in the flap by themselves. However should you wish to install it on a glass or uPVC type door, you might need a professional.

Begin by reading the instructions included with the flap to locate the drawing template. This will give you an idea of where holes need to be drilled for the flap in the door. Then, mark the places that you'll have to drill using a pencil.

After you've marked the area in your door, use a jigsaw to cut out the design of the cat flap. website It's a relatively easy task however you'll need be comfortable with a saw. Many companies will complete this task for you for a reasonable price If you're not sure how to take on the task yourself.

Then, attach the outer part of the door to the hole in your door. It may be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this in order to keep it waterproof and weatherproof. You can then put the outer part of the cat flap on top of the fixing bolts and then tighten them all. You must test the cat flap on your cat to confirm that it functions properly and that it allows them to enter and exit easily.