Fitting a Cat Flap
Fitting a Cat Flap
Blog Article
Installing a cat flap in your home is a fantastic option for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and requires additional security, or you have new kittens that need to be vetted There are a lot of options there for you.
It can be intimidating for non-professionals to install an animal flap, but with the proper guidelines, it's easy. Planning, preparation and precision are the most important factors.
Select the Right Door, or Windows
There's a wide selection of cat flaps to choose from including some with locks (which can be used to prevent your pet from leaving or coming in) and others with advanced features such as microchips for door entry systems. It's important to think about how it is easy to teach your cat to use the flap, before you buy and install one.
Depending on the design of your house It is recommended to place the cat flap inside the form of a door or window that opens out into an area of protection in the garden, so that your cat is secure when leaving and entering the home. This will also allow them to return inside if they are chased by another animal 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 easy as putting one into a wood door. It's because uPVC or composite doors come in different thicknesses. This can impact the how holes are cut and what you fix into.
To avoid costly errors to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended to consult a professional glazier prior to installing the flap on a glass-fronted doors. If you're installing the flap to an old wooden door, begin by introduction of your cat to it prior to fitting it so that they can get used to its shape and size and explore it from all angles.
Take a look at your cat's belly measurement
In order to install an appropriate cat flap that is a good fit for your pet, you'll need to measure your cat. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is the correct height on your window or door and that it's wide enough to allow them to enter and exit with ease.
Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers across their belly. Check for any fat pads that are squishy which may be visible around their lower back, face, and legs. The padding gives your pet with protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics that felines are famous for.
You can also consider the weight of your pet to determine the size of opening you require. If your cat weighs more than 5Kg, for example, the suggested cat flap opening size is 14 x 12cm.
Measure your windows or doors
The name implies the cat flap is designed to be affixed to the door, and offers an opportunity for your pet to enter or leave whenever it wants. They are usually made of aluminum or plastic and rest in the middle of the door. They have an open door that is opened by pressing lightly on either side. There are locking versions of these flaps that offer added security so your cat isn't able to enter the door from the outside.
A window is another common location for a cat flap, and they're easy enough to put in, but they are usually located high enough as it's difficult for dogs and cats to reach them otherwise. If the window is not sufficient in height to be used as a cat's flap, then you can make use of ramps, steps or specially designed stairs to aid the animal in getting to it.
It is possible to insert an egress into brick walls, however it is not recommended for those who are not experienced in brickwork. This check here could cause the wall to weaken. It is essential to ensure that there are no cables and pipes inside the wall before you begin. It is recommended to consult an expert if you have to create a hole for pipes and cables. Wearing protective glasses or a dust mask can help you avoid inhaling the sawdust that is created when cutting into your walls.
Choose the right cat flap
There cat flap fitting are a variety of cat flaps available and all of them offer various features. Some cat flaps have security features like microchip recognition or magnetic locks that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also keep your pet from allowing friends or other animals into the home. Some have weatherproof seals and insulation to block out draughts and moisture.
There's also a range of sizes based on the size and breed of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular while others are circular or square. The kind of cat flap you pick will depend on the dimensions of the opening as well as the kind of door or window you're installing it to.
Also consider the mechanism for opening your cat flap will have. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminum or plastic door. However, it won't stop other pets or cats from entering and you may be letting draughts in too.
Once you've selected the right cat flap and measured the windows or doors then it's time to install it. Begin by marking the belly height on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit level to make sure that the line is straight against the door and not too low. Create a here template for the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Next, use your saw to cut out the outline in the door. When you're happy with the results sand down the check here edges and then drill through the pencil lines to make holes for the screws.
Make sure you have the tools ready
Like any DIY jobs, it's always advisable to make sure you have the proper tools for the job. The main things you'll need are the cat flap itself as well as a tape measure, a good pencil, a spirit level, drill, file and a Jigsaw (depending on your window or door type).
Contact the manufacturer prior to making any changes to a composite door. This could invalidate the warranty, or cause the weathertight seal to become damaged. In this case it's likely you will need to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass.
You'll require an jigsaw for cutting out your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacture. Use a template if possible to determine the size of hole you require.
After you've cut the hole, read more you will need to sand the edges of the opening. This will help prevent the possibility of water damage and rust. In the end, you must apply any sealant that is needed to the back of the cat flap as well as to the holes in the door or window to keep out the elements of wind and rain. After the sealant has dried and dry, you can install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
Fitting a flap will allow your cat to come and go whenever it wants. This is a straightforward process that most people can accomplish on their own, but you'll likely need to hire a professional if you are installing the flap in the form of a glass door or another kind of uPVC door.
Take a look at the instructions that came with the cat flap. You will find a drawing of the template. This will provide you with an idea of where the holes for the flap have to be made in the door. Then, mark the places where you must drill using a pencil.
After you have marked the area on your door, you can use the jigsaw to cut the design for the cat flap. It's a relatively easy job, but you'll need to be comfortable with the saw. If you are concerned about doing this yourself, there are plenty of companies that can do this for you at a low cost.
Then, you can screw the inside part to the hole of your door. It is possible to seal the flap before you do this to keep it weatherproof and watertight. The outer section of your cat flap could be placed on the bolts' tops and then tacked together. You should test the cat flap on your cat to make sure that it's working properly and allows them to enter and exit easily.