Fitting A Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap your home is an excellent option for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and needs extra security or you have a new kitten who require a vet check there are plenty of options there for you.

It can be a bit daunting for fitting a cat flap people who aren't experts in installing a cat flap, but with the proper guidelines, it's easy. The key is preparation, planning and accuracy.

Select the Right Door or Window

There are many different types of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to stop your pet from going out or inside, and others that have modern features such as microchips or a door entry system. However, it's important to consider how easy it is for your cat to train to use the flap prior to making a buy and install one.

It is best to place the cat flap, based on the style of your home, inside an opening that leads into a garden that is sheltered. This will allow your cat to feel secure when entering or leaving your home. If possible, this will also give them a way back case they are chased by a cat or by humans who are intent to hurt them.

It is possible to install a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it's not the same as fitting one in a wood door. This is because uPVC and composite doors come in a variety of thicknesses, and this can impact the way holes are cut as well as the material you're fixing it into.

To avoid costly errors to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended to consult an expert glazier prior to installing the flap on a door with a glass cat flap installation near me front. If you're fitting the flap to an old wooden door, begin by introducing your cat to it before you fit it, so that they get used to its shape and size, and explore it from every angle.

Take a look at your cat's belly measurement

You'll need your cat's measurements to ensure that the cat flap you choose to install is a perfect fit. This will allow you to ensure that the cat flap is at the correct height on the door or window and that it's big enough for him to enter and exit easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers over their belly. Look for any squishy fat pads that might be visible around their lower back, face, and limbs. The padding provides your pet safety and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics felines are famous for.

Alternately, you could consider your pet's weight as a way to gauge how big an opening you need. If your cat weighs 5Kg, for example the suggested cat flap size is 14x12cm.

Take a measurement of your door or window

This kind of cat flap, as its name suggests is designed to be affixed to the door. It lets your pet be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. The flaps are made of plastic or aluminum and are located in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that can be opened by gently pushing on either side. There are locks on some of these flaps that provide additional security to ensure that your cat won't be able to simply walk through from the outside.

Cat flaps are also often employed in windows. They are easy to be installed, but they have to be placed at a high level as cats and dogs have a difficult time to reach them. If the window isn't sufficient to accommodate a cat flap installation's flap, then you can use ramps, steps, or specially designed stairs to assist the animal in reaching it.

It is possible to install a cat flap into a brickwall, but it is not recommended for people who are not experienced in masonry. This could weaken the wall's structure. Before you begin, it is important to ensure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. You should always consult a professional if you need to make a hole for pipes or cables. It's also advisable to wear safety goggles and a dust protection mask to avoid breathing in any sawdust generated by cutting through your home's walls.

Choose the Cat Flap that is right for you.

There are numerous cat flaps that are available on the market, and come with different features. Some flaps are equipped with security features, such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition which prevent unauthorised entry. They also prevent your pet from letting friends or animals to enter the house. Some seals are weatherproof and insulation to block out draughts and moisture.

There are also different sizes available depending on the breed and size of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular while others are square or circular. The type of cat flap you pick will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the type of window or door you're fitting a Cat flap it to.

Finally consider the opening mechanism that your cat flap cost near me flap is likely to have. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. It won't stop other animals and cats from entering however, and you could let in draughts.

It's time to put in your cat flap. Mark the belly height of the door using a ruler. Make use of a spirit-level to make sure the line isn't too low and is straight on the door. Draw a template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, using a Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. Once you are happy with the result finish sanding the edges and drill through the pencil marks to make holes for screws.

Make the Tools

Like any DIY tasks, it's recommended to have the appropriate tools for the job. You'll require the cat flap along with tape measure and pencil, a spirit-level, a drill and a jigsaw depending on the kind of window or door.

If you're installing in a composite door, you should consult with the manufacturer before making any changes as this may invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this instance you'll likely have to install an entirely new pane of toughened glass instead.

For wooden or uPVC doors will require cutting out the design of your cat flap with the Jigsaw. Follow the guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. Use a template to determine the size of hole you'll require.

After you've cut the required hole, you'll need to smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. This will stop any rust or water damage from occurring in the future. You should also seal the holes in your door or window and the back of the flap to prevent wind and rain. After the sealant has dried, you're ready to install your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to be able to come and go at will, installing flaps can be helpful. This is a straightforward process that most people can accomplish on their own, but you will likely require the help of a professional if you are installing the flap on a glass door or other kind of upvc door panel with cat flap door.

Look at the instructions that came with the cat flap. You will find a template drawing. This will give an idea of the location where holes need to be drilled for the flap in the door. Mark the areas you will need to drill in using pencil.

Once you have marked out the door's area and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the design of the cat flap. It's a relatively easy task however you'll need be comfortable with the saw. Many companies will complete this for you for a reasonable price if you are hesitant to take on the task yourself.

Then, screw the inner part to the hole of your door. It may be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this in order to ensure it is weatherproof and watertight. Then, you can put the outer portion of the cat flap on the top of the fixing bolts, and tighten the bolts all together. It is recommended to test the flap using your cat to make sure that it functions properly and that they can get in and out of it.