Fitting A Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap in to your home can be a big step for any pet owner. There are a variety of options for you, no matter if your cat is old and requires additional security or you have kittens that require to be vetted.

Installing a cat flap can be a daunting task for novices, but with the right instructions, it's not hard to do. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and precision.

Select the Right Door, or Windows

There are a variety of cat flaps that are available, some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet going out or coming in) and others with high-tech features like microchip door entry systems. It's important to think about how easy it will be to teach your cat to use the flap, before you buy and install one.

It is best to place the cat flap, based on the style of your home, in an opening that leads into a garden that is sheltered. This will help your cat feel safe when entering or leaving your home. This will also allow them to get back inside if they're chased by other animals or human who wants to harm them.

It's possible to put a cat-flap inside 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 are available in different thicknesses, and this can impact the way holes are cut as well as what you're fixing to.

If you're installing the flap inside the glass of a door it is recommended that you consult a glazier who specialises in this type of work to avoid any costly mistakes. If you're fitting the flap in an old wooden door, begin by the cat with it prior to Fitting a cat flap it to allow them to be familiar with its shape and size, and explore it from every angle.

Take a look at your cat's belly measurement

To install the right cat flap that's a good fit for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's height. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is the correct height on your window or door and that it's large enough to allow them to get in and exit easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Look for any fat pads that are squishy - these might be visible around their lower back, face, and the limbs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline circus skills.

You can also take into account the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you require. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg, for example the suggested cat flap opening size is 14x12cm.

Measure Your Door or Window

This type of cat flap cost near me flap, as its name suggests, is made to be fitted into a door. It lets your pet move in and out at their convenience. They are usually made from aluminum or plastic and are placed in the middle of the door. They have the possibility of a swinging door that opens by pushing lightly on either side. These flaps are available with locking options that provide additional security so that your cat is not able to traverse the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also often used on windows. They can be easily installed, but they have to be placed at a high level as cats and dogs find it difficult to get them. If the window is too high for a cat flap, then ramps, steps or specially built stairs can be used to aid the animal in accessing it.

Cat flaps can be incorporated into a brick wall but this is not recommended unless you're familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it is important to make sure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. You should always consult an expert when you need to cut a hole in the wall for pipes and cables. It is also recommended to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust protection mask to avoid breathing in any of the sawdust created by cutting through the walls of your house.

Choose the right cat flap

There are many different cat flaps available and each one comes with different features. Some cat flaps have security features like magnetic locks or microchips that prevent unauthorized entry. They also stop your pet from letting guests or another animal into the home. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals that keep out draughts and moisture.

There are also different sizes available depending on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps come in rectangular shapes, while others are square or circular. The type of cat flap you select will depend on the size of the opening and the kind of door or window you're installing it to.

Last but not least, consider the type of opening mechanism your cat flap will utilize. A simple aluminum or plastic swing-out door is a good alternative and is usually the least expensive. It won't prevent other pets and cats from entering however, 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 using your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is straight on the door and not too low. Create a template for fitting a cat flap the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, use a saw to cut out the outline in the door. When you're satisfied with the results sand down the edges and drill through the pencil marks to create holes for the screws.

Make the Tools

It is essential to have the right tools available when undertaking any DIY project. The most important things you'll require are the cat flap fitting near me flap itself along with a tape measure, an excellent pencil as well as a spirit level, a file, drill and the jigsaw (depending on the window or door type).

Check with the manufacturer prior to making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty or cause the weathertight seal damaged. In this case you'll need to fit an additional pane of toughened glass instead.

For wooden or upvc door panels cat flap doors will require cutting out the design of your cat flap using a Jigsaw. Follow the directions provided by the manufacturer. Use a template if possible to determine the size of hole you'll require.

After you've cut the hole, you will have to sand off the edges of the opening. This will prevent any water damage or rust from occurring in the future. You should also seal the holes in your door or window and the back of the cat flap to prevent rain and wind. Once the sealant has dried then you can put up your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

The installation of a flap will allow your cat to come and go whenever it wishes. This is a straightforward process that most people can complete by themselves, though you'll likely require the assistance of a professional if you are installing the flap in a glass door or other kind of uPVC door.

Check out the directions included with your cat flap. There is a template drawing. This will give you an idea of the location where the holes are to be drilled for the flap to be placed in the door. Then, mark the areas that you'll must drill using pencil.

After you have marked the area on your door, you can use the jigsaw to cut the design for the cat flap. It's a relatively easy task however you'll need be comfortable using a Jigsaw. Many companies will do this for you at a reasonable cost if you are hesitant to tackle it yourself.

Then, attach the outer part of the door fitting a cat flap to the hole in your door. You may have to seal it prior to making this move to ensure it is weather and water resistant. You can then put the outer part of the flap on the top of the fixing bolts, and tighten them all. It is recommended that you test the flap with your cat to ensure that it is working properly and that they are able to enter and leave easily through it.