Fitting A Cat Flap

Installing a cat flap inside your home can be a big step for any pet owner. There are a variety of options for you, whether your cat is old and needs extra security or you have kittens who need to be checked.

Installing a cat flap can be a daunting task for novices, but, with the right instructions, it's not hard to accomplish. Preparation, planning and accuracy are the key to success.

Select the Right Door or Window

There are a variety of cat flaps, including some with locks that can be used to prevent your pet from leaving or in and others with high tech features like microchip door entry system. However, it's important to think about how easy it is for your cat to train to use the flap prior to making a buy and install one.

Based on the style of your house, it's usually best to situate the cat flap inside the form of a door or window that opens out into an area that is protected from the garden, so that your cat is secure when entering and leaving the home. If possible this will also allow them a route back in should they be chased by another cat or by humans who are intent to hurt them.

It is possible to install a cat flap in the form of a uPVC door or a glass window however it's not as simple as putting one in a wooden door. This is because uPVC and composite doors come in various thicknesses, which can affect the way holes are cut as well as the materials you're fixing them to.

To avoid costly errors It is recommended that you consult an expert glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If you're installing the flap in the door made of wood, start by introduction of your cat to it before you fit it so that they can be familiar with its size and shape and explore it from every angle.

Measure Your Cat's Belly

To install an appropriate cat flap that is a good fit for your cat, you'll need to measure your cat's height. This will help you ensure that the flap is the correct height on your window or cat flap step door and that it's big enough to allow them to enter and out easily.

To do this, place your pet on their back and run your fingers gently along their belly. Look for any squishy fat pads that may be visible around their lower back door with cat flap fitted, face, and the limbs. The extra padding shields your pet and allows it to move more freely, particularly when performing feline Acrobatics.

Alternately, you could consider your pet's weight as a way to gauge how big an opening you need. If your cat weighs at or above 5kg in weight, for example that's a 14x12cm cat flap opening is recommended.

Measure your door or window

The name implies this kind of cat flap cost near me flap is made to be attached to a door and provides the pet with a way to leave or enter whenever it wants. They are usually made of plastic or aluminium and simply rest in the middle of the door. They come with the possibility of a swinging door that is opened by pushing lightly on either side. The flaps are available with locking options that offer added security, so that your cat is not able to enter the door from outside.

A window is another common location for a cat flap, and they're easy enough to put in, but they are usually set up high as it is difficult for cats and dogs to reach them otherwise. If the window is too high for a cat flap then steps, ramps or purpose constructed stairs can be used to help the animal access it.

It is possible to insert an egress into the brick wall, however it is not recommended for those who aren't familiar with masonry. This could weaken the structure of the wall. It's important to check that there are no cables and pipes inside the wall before you start. If they are, an opening must be created for them and this is something you should always seek professional advice on. It's also advisable to wear protective goggles and a dust-proof mask to avoid breathing in any of the sawdust created by cutting holes in the walls of your house.

Choose the right cat flap

There are a variety of cat flaps available on the market, and have various features. Some have security options like magnetic locks or microchips that block entry by unauthorized persons and stop your pet allowing guests or other animals to enter the house. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals to keep out draughts and moisture.

There are various sizes available depending on the breed and size of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are square or circular. The kind of cat flap you choose will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the kind of door or window you're installing it to.

Also, think about the mechanism for opening your cat flap will have. A simple plastic or aluminium swing-out door is an choice and is typically the cheapest. But, it will not prevent other cats or pets from entering your home and you could be letting draughts in too.

It's time to put in your cat flap. Make a mark on the belly of the door using your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that 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 the Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. Once you are satisfied with the result then sand the edges and drill through the pencil marks to create holes for screws.

Prepare the Tools

Like any DIY tasks, it's advisable to make sure you have the proper tools to complete the task. The main things you'll need are the cat flap itself along with a tape measure, a decent pencil, a spirit level, drill, file and Cat Flap Step the jigsaw (depending on your windows or doors).

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

You'll require an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap from a wooden or upvc door panel with cat flap fitted door. Follow the guidelines provided by the manufacture. If you can, use a template to help you identify the size of hole you'll have to cut.

After you've made the hole, you'll need to smooth the edges of the opening to smooth them. 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 side of the flap to block rain and wind. After the sealant has dried then you're now ready to put in your new cat flap!

Install the Flap

If you want your cat to move around at will, installing flaps can aid. This is a straightforward process that most people can accomplish by themselves, though you may require the assistance of an expert if you're installing the flap on the form of a glass door or another type of upvc door panels with cat flap door.

Begin by reading the instructions that come with your cat flap to find the template drawing. This will give you an idea of where holes for the flap need to be drilled in the door. Mark the areas where you have to drill using the pencil.

After you have mapped out the area in your door and you are ready to use a jigsaw, cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a relatively simple task, but you'll need to be comfortable with a Jigsaw. If you are worried about doing it yourself, there are plenty of businesses that can handle this for you at a minimal cost.

Then, you can screw the inside part to the hole of your door. You may need to apply sealant before making this move to ensure it stays watertight and weather resistant. The outside of your cat flap step (jobs251.com) flap may be placed on the bolts' tops and then tacked together. It is recommended that you test the flap using your cat to ensure that it works correctly and that they can get in and out of it.