Installing a cat flap in your home is a great option for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and needs extra security or you have kittens that need to be vetted There are plenty of options out there to choose from.
Installing a cat flap could be intimidating for people who aren't professionals, but, with the right instructions, it's easy to accomplish. Planning, preparation and precision are the key to success.
Choose the Right Door or Windows
There are a wide variety of cat flaps to choose from, some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet going out or coming in) and others that have high-tech features such as microchip door entry systems. But, it's important to consider how easy it is for your cat to train to use the flap before you purchase and fit one.
Based on the style of your home It is recommended to situate the cat flap inside a window or door that opens to an area of protection in the garden so that your cat is secure when going into and out of the house. If you can, this will also give them a route back in should they be chased by another cat or by humans who are intent on harming them.
You can put a cat flap in the case of a uPVC door or a glass window however, it's not as easy as fitting one into wooden doors. This is because uPVC or composite doors are available in a variety of thicknesses. This can impact the method of cutting holes, and the material you put into.
If you're installing the flap in a glass door, it's recommended that you consult a glazier who specialises in this kind of work to avoid costly mistakes. If you're installing the flap to an existing wooden door it is recommended that you introduce your cat to it at 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 pet, you'll need to measure your cat's height. This will help you ensure that the flap is at the correct height on your door or window, and that it's large enough to allow them to enter and exit with ease.
To do this, place your pet on their back and gently rub your fingers along their belly. Look for any fat pads that are squishy that may be visible around their lower back, face or legs. The padding helps protect your pet and allows it to move more freely, especially when performing feline acrobatics.
You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine how large opening you require. If your cat weighs at or over 5kg for instance that's a 14x12cm flap for your cat is advised.
Take a measurement of your door or window
This type of cat flap, as the name suggests, is made to be fitted into a door. It allows your pet to enter and exit at its convenience. They are usually made from plastic or aluminium and simply sit in the centre of the door. They have a two-way swinging door that is opened by pushing lightly on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps, which provide extra security, so your cat isn't able to walk through from the outside.
A window is another common place to put a cat flap, and they're easy enough to install, though they often need to be located high enough as it's difficult for cats and dogs to access them. If the window is too high to use a cat flap then steps, ramps or purpose built stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it.
A cat flap can be installed to a brick wall, but this is not recommended unless you're skilled in masonry work as it could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it's important to make sure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. You should always consult an expert if you have to make a hole for pipes or cables. Wearing safety goggles or a dust mask will ensure that you don't breathe in the dust that is generated when you cut into your walls.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are many cat flaps that are available on the market, and they have different features. Some flaps are equipped with security features, such as microchip recognition or magnetic locks that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They here also keep your pet from letting friends or animals to enter the house. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to keep out moisture and draughts.
There is also a choice of sizes, based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular while others are circular or square. Choosing the right type of cat flap will be dictated by the space you have available check here and the kind of window or door you want to attach it to.
Last but not get more info least, consider the type of opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. The most affordable option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. But, it will not keep other animals or cats from entering your home and you could let draughts through as well.
It's time to install your cat flap. Determine the belly height of the door using your ruler. Make use of a spirit-level to ensure that the line is not too low and is straight on the door. Use your spirit level to draw a template of the flap for cats. Then, using a saw, 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
It's important to have the right tools when undertaking any DIY project. You'll need the cat flap, a pencil and tape measure, read more a spirit-level, a drill and a jigsaw depending on the kind of door or window.
If you're installing in a composite door, check with the manufacturer prior to making any alterations because this could cause the warranty to be invalidated or break the weathertight seal. In this case you'll likely require an entirely new pane of toughened glass instead.
For wooden or uPVC doors you'll need to cut out the design of your cat flap using a Jigsaw. Follow the directions that are provided by the manufacturer. Use a template to mark the size hole you require.
After you've cut the required hole, you'll need to smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop the possibility of water damage and rust. Finally, website you should apply any sealant you require to the back of the cat flap as well as to the holes in the door or window to block rain and wind. When the sealant has dried and dry, you can install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
Fitting a flap will allow your cat to go and come whenever it wishes. Most people can install the flap by themselves. However should you wish to put it in the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you may require an expert.
Check out the directions that came with the cat flap. You will find a drawing of the template. This will give an idea of where holes need to be made for the flap in the door. Then, mark the places where you need to drill with the pencil.
After you have marked the area on your door, you can use the jigsaw to cut the design for the cat flap. This is a relatively easy task, but you will require a good understanding of a Jigsaw. If you're worried about doing it yourself, there are a lot of companies that can complete this for you at a low cost.
Next, you will need to screw the inner part of the cat flap to the hole in your door. You may have to apply sealant prior to doing this to ensure that it stays watertight and weather resistant. The outside of your cat flap may be placed on the bolts on top, and then tightened together. You must test the cat flap on your cat to ensure that it is working correctly and allows them to enter and exit easily.