Getting a cat flap fitted in to your home can be a big step for any pet owner. There are numerous options to you, regardless of whether your cat is older and needs extra security, or you have kittens that require to be checked.
It can be difficult for those who aren't professionals to put in a cat flap, but with the proper instructions, it's simple. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the keys.
Select the Right Door or Window
There are a myriad of kinds of cat flaps, including some with locks that can be used to keep your pet from getting out or inside, and others that have high tech features like microchip door entry system. It is important to consider how it is easy to teach your cat how to use the flap before you buy and install one.
Based on the style of your home It is recommended to place the cat flap in a window or door that opens to a sheltered area of the garden, so that your cat is secure when leaving and entering the home. This will also enable them to go back inside if they are pursued by a pet or human beings who wish to hurt them.
It's possible to install the cat-flap on a uPVC or composite door, but it isn't as simple as installing one on a wooden door. It's because uPVC or composite doors are available in a variety of thicknesses. This can affect the way holes are cut, and the type of door you can fix into.
To avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended to consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you're fitting the flap into a wooden door you must introduce your cat first to make sure it is familiar with its dimensions and shape.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
You'll need your cat's measurements to make sure that the cat flap you choose to install is a good fit. This will help you ensure that the cat flap is placed at the right height on the door or window and also that it's large enough to allow him to enter and exit easily.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers over their belly. Check for any squishy fat pads which may be visible around their lower back, face or legs. The extra padding offers your pet safety and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics that 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, for example the suggested cat flap opening size is 14x12cm.
Make sure you measure your door or window
As the name suggests, this type of cat flap is designed to be fixed into an opening and provide the pet with a way to enter or leave as it pleases. They are usually made from plastic or aluminium and simply sit in the centre of the door with an open door that opens by pushing lightly on either side. There are now locking versions of these flaps that offer extra security, so your cat won't be able to simply walk through from the outside.
www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk are also commonly used in windows. They are able to be easily installed, however they have to be placed at an elevated level since cats and dogs find it difficult to get them. If the window is too high for a cat flap, steps, ramps or purpose constructed stairs can be used to help the animal access it.
It is possible to insert a cat flap into the brick wall, however it is not recommended for people who aren't familiar with brickwork. This could weaken the structure of the wall. Before you begin, it's important to ensure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. You should always consult an expert if you have to create a hole for cables and pipes. It's also advisable to wear protective goggles and a dust protection mask to prevent inhaling any sawdust generated by cutting into the walls of your house.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are a variety of cat flaps on the market, and have different features. Some are equipped with security features like magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by unauthorized persons and restrict your pet from letting pets or friends into the home. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals that keep out the elements of moisture and draughts.
There's also a range of sizes depending on the size and breed of your pet. Cat flaps can be found in rectangular shapes, while others are circular or square. The type of cat flap you select will depend on the size of the opening and the type of window or door you're installing it to.
Lastly, think about the opening mechanism that your cat flap will have. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is an choice and is typically the least expensive. However, it will not stop other pets or cats from gaining access and you could let draughts in too.
It's time to install your cat flap. Begin by marking the height of the belly on the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is straight against the door and not too low. Utilize your spirit level to draw a template for the cat flap. Next, use your Jigsaw to cut the outline of the door. Once you are satisfied with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil lines to make holes for screws.
Prepare the Tools
Like all DIY tasks, it's advisable to make sure you have the appropriate tools to complete the task. You'll need the cat flap as well as a pencil and tape measure as well as a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the kind of door or window.
Contact the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to be broken. In this instance it's likely you'll need to replace the glass with a brand new piece of toughened glass.
For wooden or uPVC doors will require cutting out the shape of your cat flap using the jigsaw and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Make use of a template to mark out the size hole you require.
After you've made the hole, you should then sand down the edges of the opening to smooth them. This should prevent any rust or water damage from happening in the future. Finally, you should apply any sealant you require to the rear of the cat flap, and to the holes in the window or door to block rain and wind. Once the sealant is dry and dry, you can install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to go and come at will, installing flaps can be helpful. Most people can install the flap themselves. However should you wish to put it in the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you may require a professional.
Begin by studying the instructions that come with your cat flap to find the drawing template. This will give you an idea of where holes for the flap have to be drilled in the door. Mark the areas you will need to drill in with the pencil.
After you've marked the area on your door, use the jigsaw to cut the shape for the cat flap. This is a fairly simple task however, you'll need to be comfortable with the Jigsaw. If you are worried about doing this yourself, there are plenty of companies that can complete this for you at a very low cost.
Then, screw the inner part to the hole in your door. You may need to apply sealant before making this move to ensure it remains weather-proof and water resistant. The outside of your cat flap can be placed on top of the bolts, and then tacked together. You must test the cat flap on your cat to confirm that it is working correctly and that it allows them to exit and enter easily.