Fitting A Cat Flap

Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is a fantastic option for any pet owner. Whether your cat is old and requires additional security, or you have kittens who require a vet check there are plenty of options out there to choose from.

Installing a cat flap can be daunting for non-professionals but, with the right instructions, it's easy to complete. Preparation, planning and precision are the keys.

Choose the Right Door or Windows

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

Depending on the design of your home, it's generally best to place the cat flap in an opening or window that opens to an area of protection in the garden so your cat is secure when entering and leaving the home. This will also allow them to get back inside if they're pursued by a pet or human who wants to harm them.

You can put a cat flap in the form of a uPVC door or a glass window however it's not as straightforward as fitting one into the door made of wood. It's because uPVC or composite doors come 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 on glass doors it is recommended to find a glazier who is experienced in this kind of work to avoid costly mistakes. If you're installing the flap into a wooden door it is recommended that you introduce your cat to it first so that it can become familiar with its dimensions and shape.

Find out the size of your cat's belly

You'll need the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you choose to install is the perfect fit. This will enable you to ensure that your cat flap is at the correct height on the window or door, and that it is large enough for him to get in and exit easily.

Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Check for any squishy fat pads that may be visible around their lower back, face and legs. The padding gives your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, particularly when performing the many acrobatics that felines are famous for.

Alternatively, Glass Cat Flap Installation Near Me you can also use your pet's weight to determine the size of an opening you need. If your cat weighs more than 5kg, for instance the suggested cat flap opening size is 14 x 12cm.

Make sure you measure your door or window

This type of cat flap, as the name suggests is made to be fitted into a door. It lets your pet be able to enter and exit at his/her convenience. They are typically made of aluminum or plastic and rest in the middle of the door. They come with an open door that is opened by pushing lightly on either side. They are available in locking versions that offer added security, so that your cat is not able to traverse the door from outside.

cat flap double glazing flaps are also commonly employed in windows. They are easy to be installed, however they have to be installed at an elevated level since cats and dogs have a difficult time to get them. If the window is too high to use a cat flap then ramps, steps or specially built stairs can be used to assist the animal get access to it.

It is possible to insert an egress into the brick wall, however it is not recommended for those who aren't experienced in brickwork. This could weaken the structure of the wall. It is essential to ensure that there are no cables and pipes within the wall before you start. You should always consult an expert if you have to create a hole for pipes or cables. It is also recommended to wear protective goggles and a dust protection mask to prevent inhaling any sawdust that is created by cutting holes in the walls of your house.

Select the Right Cat Flap

There are a variety of cat flaps on the market and all of them offer various features. Certain cat flaps come with security features like magnetic locks or microchips that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also prevent your pet from letting guests or other animals into the house. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals that keep out the elements of moisture and draughts.

There are different sizes to choose from based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flap cover for winter flaps are rectangular, while others are square or circular. Choosing the right type of cat flap is determined by the space available and the type of door or window you are fitting it to.

Also think about the opening mechanism that your cat flap is likely to have. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is one choice and is typically the least expensive. However, it will not stop other pets or cats from gaining access and you could be letting draughts in as well.

Once you have selected the appropriate cat flap and measured the door or window then it's time to install it. Mark the belly height of the door using a ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is straight on the door and not too low. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a reference. Then, you can use your saw to cut out the door's outline. Once you are satisfied with the result, sand the edges down and drill through the pencil lines to create holes for screws.

Make the Tools

It is essential to have the right tools available when performing any DIY project. You'll require the cat flap as well as an eraser and tape measure along with a spirit-level, drill and a jigsaw depending on the type of window or door.

Contact the manufacturer prior to making any modifications to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to be broken. In this scenario it's likely that you'll have to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened Glass Cat Flap Installation Near Me.

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

After you have cut the hole, you will have to sand the edges of the opening. This should prevent any rust or water damage from occurring in the future. It is also recommended to cover the holes in your window or door and the back of the flap to block rain and wind. When the sealant has dried then you're now ready to put in your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

Fitting a flap will allow your cat to move around whenever it pleases. Most people can install the flap on their own. However when you plan to install it in the form of a glass or uPVC type door, you may need an expert.

Start by looking at the instructions that come with your cat flap to find the drawing template. This will give you an idea of where the holes are to be drilled for the flap to be placed in the door. Then, mark the areas in which you will need to drill with a pencil.

After you have marked the door on your door, you can use the jigsaw and cut out the the cat flap cost near me flap. It's a relatively easy job however, you'll need to be comfortable using a Jigsaw. If you are worried about doing it yourself, there are many businesses that can handle this for you at a very low cost.

Then, attach the outer part of the door to the hole in your door. It might be necessary to seal the flap prior to you do this, in order to keep it weatherproof and watertight. The outer part of your cat flap may be placed on the bolts on top, and then tightened together. It is recommended that you test the flap with your cat to make sure that it works correctly and that they can enter and leave easily through it.