Fitting a Cat Flap

Fitting a Cat Flap

Blog Article

Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is a great step for any pet owner. If your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have kittens that require a thorough screening there are plenty of options there for you.

It can be difficult for those who aren't professionals to put in the cat flap, but with the proper instructions, it's simple. The crucial factor is preparation, planning and precision.

Select the Right Door or Window

There are a wide variety of cat flaps available including some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet going out or entering) and others with advanced features like microchip door entry systems. It's important to think about how it is easy to teach your cat how to use the flap, before you buy and install one.

Depending on the design of your house It is recommended to put the cat flap near an opening or window that opens onto a sheltered area of the garden so your cat can feel safe when entering and leaving the home. This will also enable them to return inside if they're chased by another animal or humans who want to harm 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 wooden doors. This is because uPVC or composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses. This can impact the way holes are cut, and the type of door you can fix into.

If you're installing the flap on glass doors it is recommended to seek out a glazier that is skilled in this type of work to avoid costly errors. If you're installing the flap in a wooden door, start by the cat with it prior to fitting it to allow them to become familiar with its size and shape and explore it from all angles.

Find out the size of your cat's belly

You'll need the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap you choose to install is the perfect fit. This will ensure that the flap is at the right height for your window or door and that it's wide enough to allow them to enter and exit easily.

To do this, place your pet on their back and run your fingers gently along their belly. Feel for any fat pads that are squishy that might be visible around their lower back, face, and legs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline acrobatics.

You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine how large an opening you require. If your cat weighs up to 5Kg in weight for instance, a 14 x 12cm flap for your cat is recommended.

Take a measurement of your windows or doors

This kind of cat flap, as the name suggests is designed to be affixed to a door. It lets your pet be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. These flaps are constructed of plastic or aluminum and are located in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that opens by gently pressing on either side. The flaps are available with locking options that provide additional security which means that your cat can't walk through the door from outside.

Cat flaps are also commonly used on windows. They are easy to be installed, but they need to be set at an elevated level since cats and dogs find it difficult to reach them. If the window is too high for a cat flap, ramps, steps or specially built stairs can be used to help the animal access it.

Cat flaps can be installed into a brick wall but it is not recommended unless familiar with masonry work since it could weaken the wall's structure. It is important to make sure there aren't any cables and pipes inside the wall before you start. If they are, a hole needs to be made for more info them. This is something you should always seek expert advice on. Wearing protective goggles or a dust mask will allow you to avoid breathing in the dust that is generated when you cut into your walls.

Select the Right Cat Flap

There are numerous cat flaps on the market, and they have various features. Some have security website options like magnetic locks or microchips that block entry by unauthorized persons and stop your pet allowing pets or friends into the home. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals to block water and drafts.

There are various sizes to choose from based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are available in rectangular shapes, while others are square or circular. The type of cat flap you choose will depend on read more the dimensions of the opening as well as the type of window or door you're fixing it to.

Lastly, think about the mechanism to open your cat flap will come with. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. But, it will not stop other pets or cats from entering your home and you could let draughts in as well.

Once you've selected the correct cat flap and measured your windows or doors, it's time to fit it. Begin by marking the height of the belly on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is exactly on the door and not too low. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, you can use your saw to cut out the outline of the door. Once you're happy with the results sand down the edges and then drill through the pencil lines more info to make holes for the screws.

Prepare the Tools

As with all DIY jobs, it's always advisable to make sure you have the appropriate tools to complete the task. You'll need the cat flap as well as tape measure and pencil along with a spirit-level, drill, and a jigsaw, depending on the type of door or window.

If you're installing in a composite door, consult with the read more manufacturer prior to making any changes, because this could invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this case you'll require an entirely new pane of toughened glass instead.

You'll need to use a jigsaw to cut out your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the instructions given by the manufacturer. Use a template to determine the size of hole you need.

After you've made the hole, you must sand down the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will prevent any rust or water damage from happening in the near future. Finally, you should apply any sealant that is needed to the rear of the cat flap, and to the holes in the window or door to block the elements of wind and rain. Once the sealant is dry then you're now ready to put in your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to be able to go and come at will, installing flaps can aid. The majority of people can install the flap by themselves. However when you plan to install it in glass or uPVC type door, you might need a professional.

Begin by studying the instructions that come with the flap to locate the template drawing. This will give you an idea of where holes for the flap need to be made in the door. Mark the areas you'll have to drill with the pencil.

After you've marked the door's area and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the shape of the cat flap. It's a relatively easy task, but you'll need to be comfortable using a Jigsaw. Numerous companies will perform this task for you for a reasonable price If you're not sure how to take on the task yourself.

Then, screw the inner part to the hole of your door. You may have to apply sealant prior to making this move to ensure it stays watertight and weather resistant. Then, you can put the outer portion of the flap on the top of the fixing bolts and tighten the bolts all together. It is recommended to test the flap with your cat to ensure that it works correctly and that they are able to enter and leave easily through it.