Getting a cat flap fitted in to your home can be a major step for any pet owner. There are many options available to you, regardless of whether your cat is old and requires extra security, or you have kittens that need to be checked.
It can be difficult for people who aren't experts in installing the cat flap, but with right instructions it's easy. The most important thing is planning, preparation and accuracy.
Choose the Right Door or Windows
There are a variety of cat flaps to choose from that come with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from going out or coming in) and others with high-tech features such as microchips for door entry systems. It is important to consider the ease of your cat to train to use the flap before you purchase and install one.
It's best to place the cat flap, depending on the design of your home, in an opening that leads into a garden that is sheltered. This will help your cat feel secure when entering or leaving your home. This will also enable them to go back inside in the event of being chased by other animals or human beings who wish to hurt them.
It's possible to put the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as simple as installing one into a wood door. This is because uPVC and composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses, which can affect the way holes are cut as well as the material you're fixing it to.
If you're installing the flap inside a glass door it is recommended to seek out a glazier that is skilled in such work to avoid costly mistakes. If you're installing the flap to the door made of wood, start by introducing your cat to it before you fit it to allow them to be familiar with its shape and size, and explore it from all angles.
Measure Your Cat's Belly
In order to install the right cat flap that's the right size for your pet, you'll have to measure your cat's height. This will allow you to ensure that your cat flap is at the right height for the window or door, and also that it's large enough for him to enter and leave easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Look for squishy fat pad around the lower back or face, or around the legs. The padding provides your pet safety and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics felines are famous for.
You can also use the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you need. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg in weight, for example that's a 14x12cm flap for your cat is recommended.
Measure your windows or doors
Like the name suggests this kind of cat flap is made to be attached to a door and provides the pet with a way to leave or enter as it pleases. They are typically made of aluminum or plastic and rest in the middle of the door with an open door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. They are available in locking versions which provide extra security so that your cat is not able to enter the door from outside.
A window is a common location for a cat's flap and these are easy enough to put in, but they are usually set up high as it is difficult for cats and dogs to reach them otherwise. If the window is not high enough to use a cat's flap, then you read more can use ramps, steps, or stairs that are specially designed to help the animal reach it.
A cat flap can also be fitted into a brick wall, however it is not recommended unless skilled in masonry work as it could weaken the wall's structure. It is important to make sure there are no cables and pipes in the wall prior to you begin. You should always consult an expert when you need to create a hole for pipes and cables. Wearing protective goggles read more or a dust mask will ensure that you don't breathe in the dust that is generated when cutting into your walls.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are a variety of cat flaps available and all of them offer different features. Some cat flaps have security features such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that prevent unauthorized entry. They also stop your pet from allowing friends or other animals into the home. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to block draughts and moisture.
There are different sizes that are available based on the breed and size of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular, while others are read more square or circular. The kind of cat flap you choose will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the type of window or door you're installing it to.
Finally, think about more info the mechanism to open your cat flap is likely to have. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. However, it will not stop other pets or cats from gaining access and you could let draughts in too.
After you've chosen the appropriate cat flap and measured your windows or doors, it's time to fit it. Begin by marking the belly height on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is sitting straight on the door and not too low. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, use a saw to cut out the outline of the door. When you are satisfied with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for screws.
Make the Tools
As with all DIY tasks, it's best to have the proper tools to complete the task. The main things you'll need are the cat flap, a tape measure and a decent pencil as well as a spirit level, drill, file, and an jigsaw (depending on your door or window type).
If you're installing a composite door, it is recommended to consult with the manufacturer prior to making any changes since this could affect the warranty or damage the weathertight seal. In this instance it's likely you'll need to replace the glass with a fresh piece of toughened glass.
For wooden or uPVC doors, you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap using a jigsaw and follow the instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. If possible, use an outline to help determine the dimensions of the hole you'll will need to cut.
After you've made the hole, you should then smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will prevent any water damage or rust from happening in the near future. Also, you should apply any sealant that is needed to the back of the cat flap, and to the holes in the window or door to keep out rain and wind. After the sealant has dried then you're now ready to put in your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
The installation of a flap will allow your cat to go and come whenever it pleases. The majority of people can install the flap on their own. However, if you want to install it on a glass or uPVC type door, you may need a professional.
Begin by studying the instructions provided with your cat flap to locate the drawing template. This will give you an idea of where holes for the flap will need to be drilled into the door. Then, mark the areas where you have to drill using pencil.
After you have mapped out the door's area then use a jigsaw cut out the design of the cat flap. It is a relatively simple task, but you'll require a good understanding of a saw. If you're worried about doing it yourself, there are plenty of companies that can complete this for you at a very low cost.
Next, you will need to attach the inside of the cat flap to the hole in your door. You may have to apply sealant before doing this to ensure it is check here weather and water resistant. The outside of your cat flap could be placed on the bolts' tops and then tacked together. You must test the cat flap on your cat to ensure that it functions properly and that it allows them to exit and enter easily.