Fitting a Cat Flap

Getting a cat flap fitted inside your home can be a huge step for any pet owner. There are a variety of options to you, regardless of whether your cat is old and requires additional security or if you have kittens that require to be examined.
It can be intimidating for those who aren't professionals to put in an animal flap, but with right instructions it's easy. The most important thing is planning, preparation and precision.
Select the Right Door or Windows
There are a variety of cat flaps, some with locks that can be used to prevent your pet from leaving or in and others with advanced features like microchips for door entry systems. It's important to think about how it is easy to teach your cat to use the flap, before you purchase and install one.
Based on mouse click the following web site of your house, it's generally best to put the cat flap in an opening or window that opens onto an area of protection in the garden so that your cat will feel secure entering and leaving the home. This will also enable them to go back inside in the event of being pursued by a pet or humans who want to hurt them.
It's possible to install a cat-flap in a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't the same as fitting one into a wood door. This is because uPVC and composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses, which affect the way holes are cut and the materials you're fixing them into.
If you're installing the flap inside the glass of a door it is recommended that you consult a glazier who specialises in such work to avoid costly errors. If you're fitting the flap to an existing wooden door it is recommended that you introduce your cat first so that it can become familiar with its size and shape.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
In order to put in an appropriate cat flap that is suitable for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's size. This will help you ensure that the flap is at 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 move your fingers over their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back and face, as well as the legs. The extra padding protects your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline circus skills.
You can also take into account the weight of your pet to determine the size of opening you require. If your cat weighs 5Kg, for example, the suggested cat flap size is 14x12cm.
Make sure you measure your windows or doors
This type of cat flap, as the name suggests is made to be fitted into the door. It lets your pet enter and exit at its convenience. These flaps are constructed of aluminum or plastic and are located in the middle of the door. They have a two-way swinging opening that opens by gently pressing on either side. These flaps are available with locking options that offer added security, which means that your cat can't enter the door from outside.
A window is another popular place to put a cat flap, and they are simple enough to install, though they are usually located high enough as it's difficult for dogs and cats to reach them otherwise. If the window is too high to use a cat flap then ramps, steps, or specially constructed stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it.
It is possible to put the cat flap onto brick walls, however it is not recommended for those who are not experienced in the masonry industry. This could cause the wall to weaken. Before you begin, it is important to ensure that the wall is free of pipes and cables. If there are, then there must be a hole created for them and this is something you should always seek expert advice on. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask will help you avoid inhaling the dust that is generated when cutting through your walls.
Choose the right cat flap
There are a variety of cat flaps available on the market, and they come with various features. Some come with security options such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that stop unauthorized entry and restrict your pet from letting pets or friends into the house. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals that keep out the elements of moisture and draughts.
There is also a choice of sizes 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 dictated by the space available and the kind of door or window you intend to install it on.
Lastly think about the mechanism to open your cat flap will come with. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is an choice and is typically the cheapest. It won't prevent other cats and pets from entering however, and you could let in draughts.
Once you've selected the correct cat flap and measured your windows or doors then it's time to install it. Determine the belly height of the door using your ruler. Use a spirit-level to make sure that the line is not too low and is straight on the door. Utilize your spirit level to draw a template of the flap for cats. Then, you can use your jigsaw to cut out the outline in the door. When you're happy with the result, sand the edges and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for the screws.
Prepare the Tools
As with any DIY tasks, it's recommended to have the proper tools to complete the task. The most essential things you'll need are the cat flap along with a tape measure, a decent pencil and a spirit level a file, drill and a jigsaw (depending on your window or door type).
If you're installing a composite door, it is recommended to consult with the manufacturer before making any alterations as this may affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this instance, you'll probably require an entirely new pane of toughened glass instead.
You'll require a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions provided by the manufacture. If you can, use a template to help you determine the size of the hole you need to cut.
After you've cut the hole, you'll have to sand the edges of the opening. This should prevent any water damage or rust from occurring in the future. You should also cover 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
Installing a flap allows your cat to move around whenever it wishes. This is a straightforward process that most people can accomplish on their own, but you may need to hire an expert for installing the flap in a glass door or other kind of uPVC door.
Start by looking at the instructions included with your cat flap to locate the drawing template. This will give you an idea of where holes for the flap need to be drilled in the door. Mark the areas you'll need to drill into with the pencil.
After you have marked the door on your door, use the jigsaw to cut the design for the cat flap. This is a relatively easy job, but you'll need to be comfortable using the saw. Many companies will complete this work for you at a reasonable cost If you're not sure how to take on the task yourself.
Then, attach the outer part to the hole in your door. It is possible to seal the flap before you do this to ensure it is waterproof and weatherproof. You can then place the outer portion of the cat flap on top of the fixing bolts, and tighten them all together. You should test the flap on your cat to confirm that it functions properly and that it allows them to exit and enter easily.